Christian Peterson was granted 10 percent, or $12,026, of his requested cost by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission (WGFC) for the loss of 10 yearling cattle due to wolves and bears.
Peterson asked for $120,295 for the confirmed deaths that took place from June to November 2020. The disparity between the requested and the awarded amount was due to Peterson using an “unlawful multiplier” in his calculations, according to WGFC.
Peterson argued that yearling losses should be compensated with the same multiplier as calves due to their similar age and size. Jalie Meinecke, Peterson’s attorney, said WGFC does not have a clear definition of what constitutes a calf, and “neglecting to include yearling in that calf definition drastically cuts into his profit and deprives him crucial profits from his operation.”
Peterson said an additional 42 cows were killed or missing as believed, but unverified, and requested $50,510 for the 42 cows he valued at $1,202 per head. Additionally, Peterson submitted a request for $69,785 in claims for expenses incurred due to predation management and spotting for dead cattle.
