Comment from La Plata-Archuleta Cattlemen's Association

The La Plata-Archuleta Cattlemen's Association appreciates the opportunity to comment on the implementation of Colorado's Gray Wolf Nonessential Experimental Population Rule. Our membership remains strongly opposed to wolf reintroduction and continues to be concerned about the impacts on livestock producers, rural communities, and wildlife management. While confirmed livestock losses receive the most attention, the true impacts extend far beyond documented depredations and include increased labor, stress on livestock, altered grazing patterns, reduced productivity, and significant economic burdens on ranching families. We encourage the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to maintain and strengthen management flexibility under the 10(j) rule, streamline removal authority for problem wolves, and ensure that the experiences and concerns of livestock producers are given substantial weight in future management decisions. Colorado's ranching families play a critical role in stewarding the state's working landscapes, and their livelihoods should not be disproportionately impacted by this program. Thank You.