Salmon, Idaho's 1st Annual Wolf & Coyote Derby, Dec 28-29

[idahohuntr]

I'll tell them what I believe, and in this case I think the derby will do/did do much more harm than good.

Some control device, it resulted in zero dead wolves.  It prompted an editorial in the NY Times and will be the impetus for increased fundraising efforts by groups that oppose the killing of wolves.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/29/opinion/sunday/wolf-haters.html?_r=0

It did (IMO) nothing to raise nationwide awareness about wolf populations and their ability to withstand a high degree of hunting and trapping pressure.  It did nothing to educate the public about the dispersal and growth of wolf populations that show it does not need further protection under the Endangered Species Act.  It did nothing to raise awareness about the habitat work and winter range acquistions across the Rocky Mountains, paid for by hunters, that contribute to the deer and elk herds that support the wolf population.  It did nothing to further educate many of the American public that hunters have paid the way to restore game populations from ground zero, and continue to do so.  It did nothing to educate the public about the North American model of wildlife management and its foundation principles. 

Instead, we "raise awareness" about a disease that is a whole lot more fear mongering than it is reality, and can be avoided by practicing decent hygiene.

Well said.

[GoPlayOutside]

Don't worry JLS....I still respect your opinions and believe you're on the right side of the Big Picture.

[KFhunter]

Don't worry JLS....I still respect your opinions and believe you're on the right side of the Big Picture.

As do I.
JLS are you against hog hunting in southern states via helicopters, trapping or derby's? 


The wolves as perceived by a lot of Idahoan's are more akin to culling hog numbers in TX then trophy hunting.