As ranchers in Grand County, Colorado, grapple with navigating calving season and newly introduced wolves, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado Department of Agriculture say they’re working to support non-lethal predator control.
The CDA has partnered with the Middle Park Stockgrowers Association to get on-the-ground assistance with $20,000 to use toward non-lethal deterrents, including nighttime patrols and herd production, including range riders.
The $20,000 in resources will be managed by the stockgrowers association.
“Middle Park ranchers have long dealt with predators, but this is a new situation for our community. We’re thankful for the partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Colorado Parks and Wildlife which will let us bring in additional help to protect our animals,” said Tim Ritschard, President of the Middle Park Stockgrowers Association.
Meanwhile, both CPW and CDA say they are expanding their permanent Wolf Conflict Mitigation programs to support producers implementing non-lethal predator control measures. Funding for these programs was included in the 2024 Long Bill, recently passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor.
“Collaboration is key when addressing the complexities of wildlife management,” said CPW Director Jeff Davis. “By partnering with the Middle Park Stockgrowers Association, CPW and CDA are providing immediate support while also investing in long-term solutions through education and funding for non-lethal deterrents. Together, we’re working to protect both our ranching community and Colorado’s wildlife.”
Through a Memorandum of Understanding, CDA is working closely with CPW to anticipate and prepare for predator and livestock incidents. This includes help and education around non-lethal deterrence methods, such as range riders or the use of fladry
Livestock producers who are affected by depredations and submit a claim may be eligible for compensation for livestock lost to wolf depredation.
A dedicated Wolf Depredation Compensation cash fund has $175,000, provided from the state’s General Fund, in its balance and will receive $350,000 additional General Funds per fiscal year to keep a healthy balance in the fund on an ongoing basis.
The full list of livestock depredations by Colorado’s wolves and money paid out to ranchers is available here.