Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson is seeking input from Idahoans on a long-term solution for the management of wolves in Idaho.  Simpson has posted draft legislation on his website that would remove the Rocky Mountain Wolf from the endangered species list in Idaho and Montana, returning management authority to the states.

In August, a U.S. district judge in Montana overturned the Fish and Wildlife Service decision supported by both the Obama Administration and the Bush Administration to remove gray wolves from the endangered species list in Idaho and Montana.  As a result, Idaho cannot manage wolves under the management plan approved by the Fish and Wildlife Service, including implementing a controlled wolf hunt for 2010. 

“Idaho hunters, ranchers, and land users are the ones most directly impacted by Judge Molloy’s decision to put wolves back on the endangered species list,” said Simpson, “and I am confident that Idahoans have the best ideas when it comes to finding a workable, long-term solution to the ongoing problem of wolf management.”

Simpson is asking Idahoans to review a legislative proposal drafted by Congressman Denny Rehberg from Montana and provide comments.  Simpson and Rehberg will review the comments from Idahoans and Montanans in order to craft final legislation that can be introduced in the House of Representatives.

“After hearing from literally thousands of people over the past several weeks at listening sessions and through the internet, it’s clear the frustration is well past the boiling point and federal legislation is likely necessary,” said Congressman Rehberg.  “It’s time to start working toward a solution that works for western states, not just powerful out-of-state interest groups.”

“There is no scientific reason to keep wolves on the endangered species list when their recovery has clearly exceeded the goals that were laid out at reintroduction,” said Simpson.  “We need to find a solution to this issue that can be passed by Congress and will stand up in court, and I strongly believe that the input of Idahoans is critical in this process.”

Idahoans wishing to provide comments and feedback should visit Simpson's webpage at www.simpson.house.gov and click on the wolf icon located on the right side of the page. Simpson is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and the Environment, which oversees funding for the Fish and Wildlife Service.