Ninth Circuit Court Upholds Montana Wolf Delisting

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed the constitutionality of Congress’ removal of wolves from the federal endangered species list. Montana Outfitters and Guides Association join all the responsible conservation organizations across Montana and the Nation in celebrating this huge victory.

Attorneys representing numerous conservation organizations, supported by MOGA Members hunt donations, supported the Congressional action, wolf delisting and science-based, state-regulated management and control of wolf populations.

“This is a huge win for real wildlife management in the U.S.,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “We’re thrilled with the favorable ruling because it upholds the law as well as science and common sense. This decision helps clear the way for continued work by true conservationists to balance wolf populations with other wildlife and human needs.”

Of the decision, Ryan Benson, Big Game Forever, said: “The bottom line is that once again, the courts have ruled in favor of wolf delisting. Wolf management will continue in the Northern Rockies by state fish and game agencies including regulated hunting by sportsmen. This is a great victory for healthy wildlife populations and for our outdoor heritage”

Of the Ninth Circuit decision, Mac Minard, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, said, “We are not often in agreement with the findings of the Ninth Circuit but in this case we are very pleased. The MOGA membership have consistently supported the application of science and proven wildlife management principles in the management of wolves. We have seen first hand the impacts that nearly uncontrolled grown can have on important ungulate populations in isolated areas. This is extremely good news for all sportsmen and Stockgrowers in Montana.”

“It was the concerted effort by a number of important Conservation organizations that is responsible for the delisting effort. We must acknowledge that all of them are important and every Sportsman’s voice is important as well,” said Minard.