PUBLIC HEARINGS FOCUS ON WOLF RECLASSIFICATION LANSING--State natural resource officials today announced two public hearings to discuss reclassifying the gray wolf from "endangered" to "threatened" in Michigan. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comments on its proposal. The hearings will be conducted Feb. 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Ramada Inn in Marquette, and on Feb. 14, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Midway Best Western Hotel in Lansing. The wolf currently is listed as endangered by both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In 2000, the USFWS proposed reclassification at the federal level, and the DNR proposal mirrors that status at the state level. A team of federal, state, and tribal biologists in 1997 developed the "Michigan Gray Wolf Recovery and Management Plan," signed by Director K. L. Cool. The plan outlines strategies such as education and outreach programs, population monitoring and research, which are vital to understanding wolf ecology and maintaining public support for wolf recovery in Michigan. The plan requires a combined population goal of 100 wolves in Michigan and Wisconsin, to be maintained for five consecutive years before reclassification from "endangered" to "threatened" can occur in Michigan. That goal has been exceeded, prompting the DNR to enact the reclassification process. The gray wolf population in the Upper Peninsula has increased from a handful of animals in the mid-1980s to approximately 250 during the winter count of 2001. Track surveys to estimate 2002 mid-winter population levels currently are being conducted and another increase is expected. Individuals presenting oral comments are asked, if possible, to provide written copies of their testimony and supporting data. Comment forms also will be available at the hearings. Those unable to attend the public hearing may submit written comments until March 8, 2002, via e-mail to wolfcomment@michigan.gov or via U.S. mail to, Wolf Comments, Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909-7944
Source: MDNR
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