The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking input on its draft periodic status review for the gray wolf. The department reviews the status of endangered, threatened or sensitive species every five years to assess whether reclassification is needed.
Julia Smith, WDFW wolf policy lead, said wolves in the state have made significant progress toward recovery.
“This draft-recommended reclassification to sensitive reflects that progress and most accurately describes the current status of wolves in Washington, while also recognizing that wolves are not yet established in western Washington and should remain protected,” Smith said in a statement.
Reclassifying wolves from endangered to sensitive status would continue to protect them under the law and protections precluding hunting would remain in place. To submit comments on the status review, visit publicinput.com/psr-gray-wolf, email psr-gray-wolf@PublicInput.com or call 855-925-2801 and enter project code 2573. Comments are due by Aug. 16.
