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Gray wolf hunting, trapping seasons possible next fall in Minnesota

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mudbrook:
Gray wolf hunting, trapping seasons possible next fall in Minnesota

By T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol Reporter

Minnesota hunters and trappers could have a new quarry next fall ? the gray wolf.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Wednesday, Dec. 21 delisted the gray wolf as an endangered species in the western Great Lakes region, placing gray wolf management in Minnesota within a few weeks under control of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

With the federal delisting of the gray wolf as an endangered specie, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources officials are proposing a possible gray wolf hunting and trapping season for next autumn. (Photo courtesy of the National Park Service)

DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr styled the recovery of the iconic predator as a ?tremendous success for the (federal) Endangered Species Act,? speaking in teleconference today with state media.

Minnesota?s gray wolf population is estimated at about 3,000 animals and is the largest in the lower 48 states, according to the DNR.

Within Minnesota, the wolf range extends into southern Pine County ? in general about 50 miles north of the metro area.

Minnesota has had a gray wolf management plan for a decade, though federal court challenges over the gray wolf?s legal status has seen state officials gain and lose control over the years, explained DNR Fish and Wildlife Director Ed Boggess.

http://hometownsource.com/2011/12/21/gray-wolf-hunting-trapping-seasons-possible-next-fall-in-minnesota/

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