Hunter Nation Applauds New Legislation to Delist the Gray Wolf from ESA

Hunter Nation Applauds Senate Action on Gray Wolf Management



On April 4, 2025, Hunter Nation, a key grassroots advocacy group representing America’s hunting community, expressed its appreciation to Senators Ron Johnson, Mike Lee, and John Barrasso for their introduction of a significant bill aimed at delisting the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This legislation seeks to empower individual states with the authority to manage the species, which has fully recovered in many regions, including the Great Lakes. The introduction of this bill marks a pivotal moment for hunters, ranchers, and local communities.

A Call for State Control



The legislation, titled the “Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025,” mirrors a similar measure introduced in the House earlier this year by Congressman Tom Tiffany and Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. At its core, the bill aims to eliminate judicial reviews that could hinder state management of the gray wolf, allowing states to respond effectively to the species' growing population.

Keith Mark, Founder and President of Hunter Nation, articulated the urgency of this movement: “On behalf of the American hunter, I thank Senators Johnson, Lee, and Barrasso for their essential work in returning management of the gray wolf to the states, without judicial interference. The gray wolf represents a conservation success story, and it’s time we acknowledge that by allowing local wildlife managers to do their job.”

Concerning Statistics



Within the Great Lakes region, estimates suggest a population of approximately 4,000 to 5,000 gray wolves, significantly surpassing recovery targets established in prior years. Despite exceeding these goals since at least 1994, the gray wolf remains classified as a threatened species under the ESA, leaving state wildlife management hindered.

Biologist Dr. Nathan M. Roberts, a member of Hunter Nation, testified during a Congressional hearing highlighting the need for legislative action. His remarks underscored that scientific research indicates up to 29% of wolf populations could be sustainably harvested without jeopardizing overall population trajectories. This data supports Hunter Nation's argument for the need to revisit and revise how species management is conducted nationally.

The Importance of Legislative Action



The passage of this bill is not merely an administrative change; it is seen as generational progress for hunters and rural communities alike. Rock Bordelon, the Chairman of Hunter Nation’s Board of Directors, emphasized this point, stating, “This change to the Endangered Species Act will create lasting benefits for hunting enthusiasts and wildlife management in our states.”

Hunter Nation remains steadfast in its commitment to rallying support for this important piece of legislation, urging both Congressional chambers to unite in favor of farming a balanced and scientifically-based approach to wildlife management.

A Grassroots Movement



As a leading grassroots organization representing the rights of hunters, Hunter Nation's fight extends beyond gray wolf management. Their campaign emphasizes the necessity of blending science with practical local governance to ensure wildlife management policies are reflective of community needs and ecological realities.

In the coming months, Hunter Nation is poised to maintain a vigilant presence in Congress, advocating for the legislation’s passage while combating radical activism that threatens sound wildlife management principles.

The call to action has been made clear: it is time for Congress to respond to the needs of local communities who understand that effective wildlife management must account for both ecological health and the interests of those who live and work in these areas. Hunter Nation invites all stakeholders to join in pushing forward this critical reform, restoring a scientifically-based approach to managing America’s wildlife legacy.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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