|
Gray Wolves Delisted
|
|
On March 28, 2008 wolves in the Northern Rockies,
including wolves in Yellowstone, were removed
from the List of Threatened and Endangered Species.
This means that management responsibility has
been transferred from the federal government to state
agencies.
The original recovery goal was to have 30 breeding
pairs and more than 300 wolves distributed between
Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. That goal was officially
reached in 2002, when it is estimated that there were
663 wolves and 49 breeding pairs. Since then, the
population has continued to grow. Current estimates
indicate that there are over 100 breeding pairs and
1500 wolves in the three states.
With delisting, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho will be
responsible for managing wolves within their state
lines. While each state has its own recovery plan -
they are all committed to preserve a minimum of 15
breeding pairs and 150 wolves in each state. While
hunting and trapping form a major component of each
state's plan, there will be no killing of wolves in the
park. Wyoming is committed to maintain at least
seven breeding pairs outside of Yellowstone Park.
The status of wolves in other areas will not be
affected. Wolves in the upper Midwest will remain
listed as threatened. Wolves in other western states,
even if they cross over from areas where they are
delisted, will be protected by the Endangered Species
Act.
In addition, the Fish and Wildlife Service will continue
to monitor wolves for at least five more years in an
effort to ensure that the agreed compliance measures
are adequate to maintain wolf populations in the
affected areas.
This decision is controversial, and several
organizations announced plans to challenge it in the
courts. Under federal rules, they will no challenges
can be filed until April 28, 2008. For the latest news on
wolf delisting, please visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
website.
|
NEW! Ultimate Trip Planner - Save Over 35%
|
|
Are you planning a trip to Yellowstone this season?
The Ultimate Trip Planner is our most
comprehensive planner including everything you need
for your trip to Yellowstone. If purchased separately,
these titles would cost $96.64. This is a savings of
over 35%. Price: $59.95 ($50.95 for members)
|
Easy Vacation Planning for Families!
|
|
Planning a family vacation in Yellowstone is easier
than you might imagine. With just one phone call, you
can arrange the trip of a lifetime. Our Yellowstone
for Families program was selected "Best Summer
Family Camp in America" by Good Morning America
and Family Fun Magazine. Lodging is included so
there's no worrying about room availability. Daily field
trips and activities are designed families with kids
ages 8 to 12 and led by expert naturalist guides from
the Yellowstone Association Institute. These
affordable four-day packages run from June 13 to
August 18 and include transportation, lodging, and
most meals. Space is still available for July and
August of 2008. Call now to make your reservation.
|
Help us celebrate our 75th anniversary!
|
|
Since the year 2000, the Association has provided
$11.5 million dollars in cash and in-kind support of
park education. Some recent projects include a new
film in production for the Canyon Visitor Education
Center; trailside exhibits at Norris Geyser basin, new
education exhibits for the Albright Visitor Center, and
many more. But funding for these projects would not
have been possible if not for the generosity of our
members. Please join today and help ensure that
Yellowstone remains one of North America's most
treasured places. As our way of saying thank you,
members that join at the Gibbon level ($50) or above
and will receive a free DVD Yellowstone :
Symphony of Fire and Water. When signing up, be
sure to refer to offer code: Mar 08 E-news in the
comments field on our website to receive your free gift.
Limit one per new member.
|
|
|