Now that gray wolves are once again under state management led by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the agency is again proposing gray wolf hunting seasons within the Trophy Game Management Area. Such was the case in 2012 and 2013 when Game and Fish also led management of the wolves.
Game and Fish is holding public meetings on the proposed 2017 gray wolf hunting seasons and has opened a comment period to gather public input. The timing of the efforts allows for the final proposal to go to the regularly scheduled Wyoming Game and Fish Commission meeting in July.
“We have developed a conservative hunting season framework in the Trophy Game Area for the public to consider and provide comments. Our track record in 2012 and 2013 shows that this approach will ensure we maintain a recovered population of wolves while providing opportunity for those who want to hunt gray wolves,” said Doug Brimeyer, deputy chief of the Game and Fish’s wildlife division.
Other draft regulations may also be discussed at the meetings. Written comments on gray wolf hunting regulations will be accepted through June 19th at 5:00 p.m. at public meetings, online, or by mail to: Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Regulations, 3030 Energy Lane, Casper, WY 82604.
Copies of the proposed regulations are available on the Game and Fish website and at the Casper Office.
"Wolves outside the Trophy Game Management Area are considered predatory animals as defined in state law and therefore can be harvested. Any wolf harvested in the predator zone must be checked in to the Game and Fish within 10 days of harvest. The department does not manage for population viability outside the Trophy Game Management Area as wolves that occur in these areas are more likely to be involved in conflicts."