The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said on its website it is no longer accepting Wolf-Livestock Compensation Pilot Program applications.
In the agency’s summary report, CDFW detailed how the $3 million appropriated for the pilot program was spent. According to the report, from February 2022 to March 2024, CDFW issued 109 wolf compensation grants to 36 individual livestock producers in four counties with confirmed wolf activity (Siskiyou, Lassen, Plumas and Tulare counties).
Over $1.9 million was allocated to non-lethal deterrent grants, with 56 grants awarded. The remaining funds were divided, with $135,043 allocated for direct loss compensation and $945,130 designated for “pay for presence” compensation.
The Whaleback Pack in Siskiyou County and the Lassen Pack in Lassen and Plumas counties were known to CDFW during the pilot program period. The agency has since identified six packs in the four counties.
The California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) said in its April 15 weekly update that it has lobbied for increased funding for the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program. CCA said it remains committed to updating its members on the progress of budget negotiations, particularly as the governor finalizes his May budget revision and as legislative discussions conclude in June.
