A Note from our Executive Director
In the vast expanse of nature, where the water dances with the land, a delicate balance exists. It is a harmonious symphony of diverse ecosystems, inhabited by magnificent creatures that grace the land, skies and waters. Yet, this symphony is at risk of being silenced forever, drowned out by the relentless march of human ignorance and greed.
Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance understands the urgency of this mission. We work tirelessly to protect these species, advocating for their preservation, an act for justice. That can be difficult for many of us. I have had some rough days myself witnessing cruel hounding and harassment of bears, but you all motivate us to keep organizing and empowering advocates.
I will tell you this. Together, our commitment knows no bounds. We push boundaries, challenge conventional wisdom, and demonstrate unwavering dedication. By supporting the GLWA you become a beacon of hope. Change begins with each individual commitment to protect and preserve our wildlife. Whether it is through volunteering, donating, spreading awareness, or simply choosing to coexist harmoniously with nature, YOU have the power to make a difference!
As we collectively work to move wildlife policy forward, we need to actively be thinking about what it will take to get there. Our Fireside Chats explore different subjects and actions you need to take. They are a pretty informal, yet vital part of how this organization functions. We discuss pending legislation, citizen lobbying, wildlife agency rules and feature fascinating guest speakers. We identify the hurdles and successes in order for you to understand wildlife agency reform, democracy and funding. These virtual meetings make it possible for advocates from all backgrounds to gather for intimate conversations, insights and steps to bring to forth real solutions.
Together, we have the power to create a brighter, healthier and more equitable future for the animals we share our environment with. So, we are going to rally our collective strength and ensure a future where wildlife thrives. The time to act is now.
The political rhetoric involved in the upcoming administrative rules and wolf management plan may still bring devastating outcomes. Misinformation and outright lies from state policymakers and stakeholders have firmly instilled an atmosphere of distrust and resentment among Wisconsin citizens. An era of “us against them” has evolved to new levels, and members of the public who hold stock in Wisconsin’s wildlife have turned against each other.
This new atmosphere has ramifications for anyone who values wildlife, whether for consumptive or non-consumptive uses. The voices of non-consumptive users have been silenced, forcing groups to take action in the form of litigation. It is the only choice we have. We have seen what throwing wolves to the tender mercies of state management really means: 200+ wolves killed within 72 hours in a coordinated effort facilitated by DNR personnel and NRB members.
I happen to agree with most who want delisting. The state should be able to manage wolves. Unfortunately, the state of Wisconsin has shown time and time again that it caves to politics and special interests. State management has now become synonymous with extreme killing of wolves by cruel methods and illegal backdoor dealing. We are seeing this now with our own decision makers. While the wolf management plan public comment period was closed, anti-wolf groups got an extension to meet with the NRB and DNR Secretary Adam Payne for over 12 hours of additional testimony.
What the mainstream hunters seem to miss is that they are being influenced to believe that non-consumptive users are aiming to stop all hunting, further buying into the “us against them” perspective. As a counter-attack, aggressive promotion of poaching is becoming commonplace with bumperstickers calling to “Shoot, Shovel, and Shut-up”. This only generates negative perceptions of hunters by the mainstream public, hurting their cause rather than helping. Paradoxically, these groups who have so much in common (an interest in robust wildlife populations, healthy habitats, and access to public lands) are in complete opposition to each other, causing good, science-based wildlife policy to stagnate. Superstitions have replaced science, and money and political influence have replaced the Public Trust.
Changing this begins with taking accountability. We must all take responsibility for ensuring a democratic process behind good policymaking. Consumptive and non-consumptive users will always exist. Just as people need to learn to coexist with wildlife, we need to learn to coexist with each other and demand that policies are made to reflect all stakeholders. No policy will ever satisfy everyone, but policy guided by science, ethics, and collaborative decision-making will most assuredly be in the best interest of both the public and wildlife. Citizens and interest groups must demand that all stakeholders have a seat at the table, and the dismantling of Wisconsin’s deep scientific legacy must be stopped.
This is the chance to really change things for wolves.
Pollinator Gardens Draw Monarchs for Miles
This spring, we asked each of you to plant a pollinator garden, and here are some results! On a tiny lot in the middle of Appleton, Wisconsin, owner Dennis Nagan has created a monarch paradise. These photos showcase an example of what can be done even in the smallest garden or yard to help our pollinators.
Each year, in August, hundreds of monarchs arrive to feast upon the nectar of one specific type of blazing star known as Meadow Blazing Star, or Liatris liguistylis. This specific native species of blazing star is said to give off a pheromone, or chemical signal, to attract monarchs specifically to its blooms. When you see photographs of multiple monarchs on a stem of blazing star, it is likely this species.
Nagan has planted over 100 of these plants on his tiny property, as well as a number of other native perennials such as Joe Pye weed, black-eyed Susan, orange milkweed, swamp milkweed, New England aster, blanket flower, cardinal flower, ironweed and more. The results speak for themselves.
Even in the heart of the city, the monarchs are drawn here. These monarchs were not raised here or released here. They are drawn by this chemical scent from over a mile away. Just like night flying Luna moths can detect the chemical scent of a female from 1 to 2 miles away, the monarch butterfly can detect the pheromone of this plant. Th monarch miracle happens every year at the Nagan home during mid August.
~Rob Zimmer
The Wisconsin wolf management plan is out and, based on those who still hold onto 25-year-old science, it appears they have continued to push for a wolf population which is not sustainable and would lead to regional extinction.
We know this number is obscene as a population cap, but the usual suspects are crying wolf again. Citizens should learn about the work the state Department of Natural Resources has done, and should push to support outcome-based objectives and a holistic management approach.
Wolves should be managed to their biological carrying capacity because wolves self-regulate their numbers. The only numeric objective is a minimum population that includes no upper limit. Conflict does not increase because the wolf population does. Wisconsin should use similar language as Minnesota to provide consistency across the Great Lakes and remaining habitat.
The state should support a plan with a minimum wolf population — a plan with a cap isn’t based on sound science. We want to see outcomes that are determined by a diverse committee, not a majority of hunters. Best-available science shows that hunting does not reduce conflict, and it is up to those who don’t cry wolf to ensure that becomes policy.
The next thing on our plate is the Administrative Rules Hearing which regulates wolf hunting. The new rule, proposed by the DNR, would establish harvest regulations for the administration and implementation of a wolf harvest season, as well as make some updates to the emergency rule. These updates would include establishment of wolf hunting zones, shooting hours, reporting, registration and carcass presentation requirements, and regulations regarding the use of dogs.
There also would be a new dog training season for wolves which would only be open when a zone is open to wolf harvest, and producers who have multiple confirmed livestock depredation events within the same grazing season would be eligible for an enhanced reimbursement rate.
In addition to the public comment period, the DNR is holding an online public hearing on the proposed rule Tuesday, Sept. 12, at 4 p.m. Individuals can attend the hearing and provide comments on the rule, or submit them in writing by Sept. 15. Registration will take place at the hearing by completing a Hearing Appearance Form. DNR officials note that registration is strongly encouraged for those who plan to provide spoken comments during the hearing.
While we are consulting our attorneys and scientific advisors, we recommend you register in opposition. We will discuss this Administrative Rules Meeting and Public Hearing at this week’s Fireside Chat on Thursday, September 7th.
Hearing Appearance Form can be filled out and emailed to scottr.karel@wisconsin.gov (hit print, save as PDF and then attach, OR download and attach to email)
Welcome Aboard!
The Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance Board of Directors is expanding! We are thrilled to welcome the following new board members who are committed to our mission. Our team is excited to have individuals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Their contributions and ideas will be invaluable as we work to continue the fight for wolves and wildlife in Wisconsin. Thank you for joining us in this important mission…let’s get to work!
Trumpeter Swan Shootings at Navarino Wildlife Area
Three young trumpeter swans and a blue heron were recently shot at Navarino Wildlife Area. We are aware that these beautiful swans are no longer considered an endangered species but they certainly were just a few years ago. Both species are still protected and cannot be hunted. This heinous act was committed by a poacher who has shown a complete disregard for the lives of these protected animals. We share in the anger and frustration expressed by many of you who have also been following the story.
These majestic birds were a source of joy for many people, and their loss is deeply felt. We urge anyone with information about this crime to come forward and help bring this poacher to justice. We hope that law enforcement will catch whoever did this and REVOKE HUNTING PRIVILEGES FOR LIFE. We know that many think people have the right to hunt however they please, but they do not.
Let us stand together to protect our wildlife and prevent such tragedies from happening again. Anyone with information is asked to call 800-847-9367.
PLEASE NOTE that Fireside Chat meetings will be taking place EVERY THURSDAY of the month until further notice. We will still have special guests for you including scientists to help guide our decisions. Your questions and feedback are always welcome. We hope to see you there!
September 7th: Administrative Rules Meeting and Public Hearing
September 14th: Current Events and Action Items
September 21st: Current Events and Action Items
September 28th: Current Events and Action Items
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