The Humane Society of the United States is disappointed that the organizers of the upcoming ‘Wisconsin Wolf Summit’ in Cumberland, Wisconsin, are showing contempt for science and perpetuating myths about wolf behavior and the status of the species in Wisconsin and the rest of the Great Lakes region. Melissa Tedrowe, Wisconsin state director for The HSUS, issued the following statement:
“The ecological and economic benefits brought by wolves – reducing deer-auto collisions, stemming the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease and fostering tourism – are documented and undeniable. Promoting myths and stoking fear won’t help the situation, and will produce only more division and disagreement.”
Representatives from The HSUS and other wildlife protection organizations urge summit organizers to provide balance on their program and give scientists and economists an opportunity to state the facts about wolves and the fiscal and ecological benefits they deliver. Wisconsin’s elected officials can, and should, do better for the majority of their constituents who welcome wolf recovery and realize the essential role of wolves in the ecosystem. The HSUS will continue to advocate for the protection of the Great Lakes wolves under the federal Endangered Species Act while their population continues to recover.