Rising Wolf Attacks

Minnesota saw a record 252 calls for wolf management assistance last year, with Kittson County reporting the second-highest number of complaints. Representative John Burkel of Badger has introduced a bill to establish an open hunting season for wolves, citing depleted state funds for livestock depredation payments. “The fund actually floats between elk and wolf depredation money, and they’ve depleted both funds paying depredation.” Burkel noted more farmers are seeking compensation, but funding has already run out for fiscal year 2025.  Burkel argues that Minnesota’s wolf population is higher than in any other state in the lower 48 and believes it must be controlled. “I think we need to have a discussion about how many wolves really need to be in the state.” Burkel also emphasized the need for federal action to remove wolves from the endangered species list, a move he anticipates will happen soon.