House Votes Threaten Gray Wolf Survival As Endangered Species Protections Hang by a Thread
In a decision by the U.S. House of Representatives, the gray wolf may soon be removed from the Endangered Species List, altering decades of conservation efforts. This contentious move has sparked debate across political and environmental spectrums.
The U.S. House of Representatives voted to remove gray wolves from the Endangered Species List.
The Legislative Move
On Tuesday, a slim majority of lawmakers voted to pass the “Trust the Science Act”, authored by Rep. Lauren Boebert, and co-sponsored by numerous Republicans, reports Defenders of Wildlife.
The act proposes to transfer wolf management from federal to state control, thereby removing federal protections afforded by the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
The bill, titled “Trust the Science Act,” was authored by Rep. Lauren Boebert.
Historical Context and Population Recovery
Gray wolves were nearly decimated in the U.S. by the 1960s due to unregulated hunting. Protections established in the 1970s under the Endangered Species Act allowed their numbers to rebound, particularly in regions like Wisconsin, where the population has reached over 1,000, reports the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Today, estimates suggest there are about 6,000 wolves in the lower 48 states, according to Agence France-Presse.
If passed, the bill would shift wolf management authority from federal to state levels.
Arguments For and Against Delisting
Supporters of the bill, like Rep. Tom Tiffany, argue that the wolf’s recovery is a testament to the success of the Endangered Species Act and that delisting is a logical next step, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. Opponents, however, including Rep. Mark Pocan, express concerns that removing protections could jeopardize the species’ survival, arguing that the decision bypasses scientific advisement in favor of political influence, according to the Associated Press.
Impact on Local Wildlife Management
If the bill is enacted, states would gain the authority to manage wolf populations, potentially including the establishment of hunting seasons. This shift has been met with mixed reactions. Some states like Montana and Idaho have shown that state management can substantially exceed federal recovery targets, CPR News reports. However, concerns remain about the potential for local decisions to lead to drastic reductions in wolf numbers, as historical state-managed hunts have shown.
The gray wolf population has rebounded significantly since their 1970s Endangered Species Act protections.
Looking Ahead
While the bill has passed the House, its future in the Senate remains uncertain. Previous similar measures have failed to gain traction. The White House has also expressed opposition, suggesting a potential veto should the bill reach the President’s desk, reports Wisconsin Public Radio.
This legislative effort underscores a broader national conversation about wildlife management, conservation priorities, and the role of science in policymaking. As the debate continues, the fate of the gray wolf hangs in balance, highlighting the complex interplay between environmental science and political decision-making.
