State officials are asking for your input as they update the 2008 Michigan Wolf Management Plan, which was created through a survey process that identified problems with wolves and assessed public attitudes toward their management.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is conducting a similar survey in its update.
In the six years that have passed since the plan’s creation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined the wolf population in the western Great Lakes region had recovered and the species no longer required the protection of the Federal Endangered Species Act.
Once wolves were removed from the list of endangered species, the state assumed authority over their management in Michigan.
The existing Wolf Management Plan is centered on four general goals: maintain a viable wolf population, facilitate wolf-related benefits, minimize wolf-related conflicts and conduct science-based and socially acceptable management of wolves.
These goals will remain the same in the revised plan. The update will include reviewing scientific literature with new information, evaluating implementation based on the action items in the plan, updating action items, and addressing outdated information or clarifications that may be needed.
Officials are seeking comment from those interested in wolf management. Review of the plan update will occur in two phases. The first phase will consist of a 30-day period in which interested parties, DNR staff members and Natural Resources Commission members can provide comment on the implementation of actions in the 2008 plan. The second phase will be a 30-day period to comment on the Draft Updated Plan before it goes to the Natural Resource Commission for endorsement and the DNR director for signature.
The first phase electronic survey is now open (www.surveymonkey.com/s/wolfplanupdate). The survey is structured around 12 strategic goals and corresponding actions within the 2008 plan. Those interested in wolf management are encouraged to provide input. Comments will be accepted through Dec. 11. Those unable to participate in this survey electronically are asked to contact the DNR Wildlife Division at (517) 284-9453 to receive a paper survey.
The DNR hopes to have the wolf plan update completed by spring of 2015.