Wildlife Advocacy Organizations Across the Nation say Lawsuit Crucial for Modern Wildlife Management
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance Appeals Wisconsin Wolf Management Plan Decision
Wisconsin, October 8th, 2024 — The Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance (GLWA) has officially filed an appeal (9-25-24) challenging the development and adoption process of the “Wisconsin Wolf Management Plan 2023” (Wolf Plan). This legal action comes in response to alleged violations of Wisconsin’s Open Meeting Law, the Wisconsin Administrative Procedure Act (WAPA), and the Wisconsin Public Trust Doctrine by the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board (NRB) and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At the heart of GLWA’s argument is a call for procedural fairness and transparency in wildlife agency decisions that serve the interests of all citizens—not just those focused on agriculture and hunting. The organization asserts that state agencies and governmental bodies must adhere to established rules and open meeting laws to protect citizens’ rights and ensure the integrity of public processes for all wildlife species, not just gray wolves.
Key concerns raised by GLWA include:
Closed Meetings and Favored Stakeholders: The respondents are accused of conducting closed, unnoticed meetings with select stakeholders, undermining the credibility of the policy-making process.
Unequal Comment Periods: GLWA highlights that comment periods were extended for certain segments of the public while others were excluded, raising serious concerns about viewpoint discrimination.
Disregard for Critical Research: Allegations have surfaced that critical research and alternative viewpoints challenging agency assumptions were ignored, emphasizing the need for evidence-based decision-making.
GLWA seeks judicial review on five specific grounds:
Open Meeting Law Violations: Alleged breaches of open meeting laws during the Wolf Plan’s development.
Procedural Violations under WAPA: Claims that procedural standards were not adequately met throughout the process.
Substantive Due Process Violations under WAPA: Assertions that due process was compromised.
Constitutional Guarantees: Claims of violations regarding Wisconsin’s constitutional guarantees of due process and equal protection.
Trustee Duties: Allegations that the respondents have failed to uphold their duty to conserve wildlife for the benefit of Wisconsin citizens.
Through this appeal, GLWA aims to ensure that management decisions regarding gray wolves and all wildlife species are rooted in valid scientific research rather than biased assumptions or special interests. The organization underscores the importance of transparent development processes, lawful procedures, and credible scientific knowledge, especially as federal protections for gray wolves are lifted. A scientifically sound Wolf Plan is deemed crucial for the ongoing conservation of these animals.
“Our commitment is to guarantee that the development of the ‘Wisconsin Wolf Management Plan’ adheres to principles of transparency, fairness, and sound science,” stated Melissa Smith, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance. “This appeal is vital for holding state agencies accountable and promoting scientifically grounded management of wildlife for all people, not just agricultural or hunting interests. We advocate for transparency and democracy in wildlife agency decisions to ensure the protection of all wildlife species for the benefit of Wisconsin’s ecosystems and future generations.”
In summary, GLWA’s appeal seeks to rectify the courts decsion to not enforce procedural violations, foster transparent processes, and uphold the state’s responsibility to manage wildlife effectively. The outcome of this case could significantly influence wildlife conservation efforts and the integrity of public policy in Wisconsin and beyond.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Melissa Smith Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance Email: msmith@wiwolvesandwildlife.org Phone: (608) 234-8860
Dear Wildlife Enthusiast, I know whenever I see this image, tears come down my face. 🌿What can we do about the increasing human population pressure on wildlife? In lieu of our usual Fireside Chat, as we are in continuing meetings in Washington, DC, we have an extraordinary opportunity for you. Join us for a thought-provoking…
Learn, connect, and take action for wildlife and nature’s rights at Howling for Wolves Wolf Day. The event will address the wolf hunt legislation in Minnesota and offer remote access for all. Speakers and organizations will provide insights and advocacy tips. Livestream or join the event in person on April 18th to be part of the crucial discussions.
Please plan on joining us for our bi-weekly Fireside Chats where you can meet our team, learn more about the latest advocacy updates, hear from special expert guests, ask questions, provide feedback, and discuss volunteer opportunities. Zoom link here!
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About Us
Friends of the Wisconsin Wolf & Wildlife formed in response to the wolf hunt and expansion of hunting and trapping in our state parks. Our mission is to advocate for Wisconsin wolves and wildlife by bringing diversity, science and democracy to wildlife policy.
