Colorado Republicans Criticize State Over Canadian Wolf Relocations
Colorado’s GOP caucus in Washington, D.C. and Republicans at the state Capitol in Denver are expressing strong disapproval of the recent relocation of Canadian wolves into the state. The move has been described as “rushed” and “dysfunctional” by critics, who feel that the state’s wildlife officials have mishandled the process.
Although Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials have neither confirmed nor denied the arrival of wolves on Sunday, videos and eyewitness accounts indicate that the animals were transported to the state. The wolves’ exact whereabouts are currently unknown.
Members of Congress, including U.S. Reps. Lauren Boebert and Jeff Crank, have expressed concern over the chaotic nature of the wolf relocation and have introduced a bill to delist the gray wolf in Colorado. This bill has not yet gained additional sponsors among Colorado Republicans.
Amidst growing opposition, Colorado Parks and Wildlife plans to import a total of 15 Canadian wolves into the state this month. However, there is uncertainty regarding the specific locations where the wolves will be released.
Several state House Republicans have condemned the wolf release, emphasizing the detrimental impact on rural communities and ranchers. The concerns include potential wolf depredation, loss of livestock, and inadequate compensation for affected individuals. Despite these criticisms, the state’s wildlife commission has denied requests to pause the relocation program, leading to further frustration among lawmakers and stakeholders.
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