The Department of Natural Resources is asking the public to help track the state's gray wolf population. For over a decade, volunteer trackers have helped the state survey thousands of square miles looking for gray wolves. DNR mammal ecologist Adrian Wydeven says they're hoping to expand efforts this winter, largely because the state's wolf population continues to grow. The DNR will begin training volunteers next month to help with surveys.
With an estimated 500 gray wolves possibly living in Wisconsin right now, Wydeven says volunteer help is crucial. The volunteers help supplement what the state is already doing, which largely involves radio tracking of wolf packs. The work is part of efforts to de-list the gray wolf and plan for future management of the species in Wisconsin. Training sessions begin in November.
Training session dates:
- Nov. 4 in Ashland at the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute
- Dec. 2 in Babcock at Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center
- Dec. 5-6 in Watersmeet, Mich. at Lac Vieux Desert Casino
- Dec. 9-10 in Tomahawk at Treehaven UW-SP Field Station