Dear Wildlife Support Team Member

I hope this message finds you well. Over the years, you’ve stood with us, lending your voice and your generosity to protect the wildlife and habitats we cherish. In these tight and uncertain times, your support means more than ever as we take bold steps to confront critical threats to wildlife.The Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance, together with Friends of the Wisconsin Wolf & Wildlife, is launching some of our most ambitious advocacy efforts yet. These types of people coming for wolves are emboldened and we have to be stronger than ever. And we are with you.

The Trump administration’s actions regarding wildlife and environmental protections have sparked significant controversy.

Endangered Species Act Rollbacks

The administration proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act (ESA), which is a cornerstone of wildlife conservation in the U.S. These changes included redefining the term “harm” to exclude habitat destruction. Previously, the ESA prohibited activities that could harm endangered species through habitat modification or degradation. By narrowing the definition, the administration aimed to allow industries like logging, mining, and fossil fuel extraction to operate in areas critical to endangered species.Impact on Iconic SpeciesThe proposed changes threatened the survival of species such as the Florida panther, spotted owl, chinook salmon, and monarch butterfly. Conservationists argued that without habitat protections, these species would face increased risks of extinction.

Motivations Behind the Changes

Critics suggested that the administration’s actions were driven by a desire to prioritize industrial and economic interests over environmental conservation. The changes were seen as a way to facilitate resource extraction and development projects, often at the expense of wildlife and ecosystems.Public and Legal OppositionEnvironmental groups and conservationists strongly opposed these rollbacks, describing them as a “radical assault” on conservation efforts. Organizations like ours have vowed to challenge these proposals in court, emphasizing the importance of habitat protection for the survival of endangered species.

Broader Implications

The administration’s approach to wildlife and environmental policies reflected a broader trend of deregulation. These actions raised concerns about the long-term impact on biodiversity, ecosystems, and climate resilience.The controversy surrounding these policies highlights the tension between economic development and environmental conservation.

Your support can directly save wolves from the horrors they faced in 2021, when wolf management policies led to increased hunting and culling. These actions resulted in significant population declines and disrupted ecosystems. By contributing to our advocacy efforts, you help Together, we can prevent history from repeating itself and secure a future where wolves are valued as an integral part of our natural world

Our Bold New Plans

Combatting Poaching with a Wolf Decoy Program: We are rolling out an innovative anti-poaching program deploying wolf decoys to deter illegal hunting and hold violators accountable.

Challenging Anti-Science Policies: We’re standing up against harmful, unscientific narratives that undermine conservation efforts.

Protecting Wildlife Under Cruelty Laws: Advocating for new legal protections to ensure wildlife is safeguarded from inhumane treatment.Exposing ALEC and Hunter Nation’s Influence: Investigating and exposing harmful influences behind destructive legislation that prioritizes special interests over conservation.

Fighting the Pet and Livestock Protection Act: Opposing this misguided bill backed by Wisconsin legislators and special interests, which threatens wolves, whooping cranes, and other imperiled wildlife.

Stopping Wisconsin’s Crane Hunt: Defending Sandhill Cranes from being added to hunting lists and advocating for their continued protection.Protecting the Endangered Species Act (ESA): Mobilizing efforts in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Michigan to defend the ESA and ensure its protections remain strong for at-risk species.

Engaging in Policy Reform and Advocacy

Attending Key Meetings: Actively participating in Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Natural Resources Board meetings to advocate for science-based wildlife management.Conservation Congress Ad Hoc Wildlife Policy Reform: Engaging in reform efforts to ensure wildlife policies reflect the latest science and prioritize conservation.🤣

Collaborating with National Coalitions: Partnering with initiatives like National Wildlife for All, National Wolf Call, and the National Endangered Species Coalition to amplify our advocacy efforts.

Our Legacy

Over the past decade, we’ve made tremendous strides together:Defended the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and opposed wolf delisting.Successfully influenced state and federal wildlife policies.Filed and won critical litigation to ensure transparency and sound science in wildlife management.

Mobilized grassroots support and educated communities through events like Endangered Species Day.

Advocated for habitat restoration and conservation, improving ecosystems for countless species.

Why Your Support Matters

Your contributions have always fueled our fight. Today, we are thrilled to announce a $10,000 Matching Grant to strengthen our ability to respond at a moment’s notice to urgent threats through advocacy, administration, and the courts—just as we did in 2021 and 2023. This incredible opportunity allows every dollar you give to be matched, doubling the impact of your support.

Your gift ensures we never compromise wildlife for the interests of the few who seek to destroy. With your help, we can:Protect wolves from poaching and the horrors of 2021 by promoting coexistence and deterrence strategies.Fight back against destructive legislation and defend endangered species in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Michigan.Secure wildlife protections under cruelty laws and ensure transparency in wildlife management policies.

Every dollar makes a difference. Together, we can mobilize advocates, influence policymakers, and ensure a brighter future for the wildlife of our Great Lakes region and beyond.

DONATE

Please consider making a gift today to take full advantage of the $10,000 Matching Grant. Your generosity ensures that we can meet these challenges head-on and protect the wildlife that needs us most.

With hope and determination

Whether you can contribute $10 or $1,000, your gift will be matched dollar for dollar. Let’s continue to fight for the world we want—together! If you have any questions or ideas, we’d love to hear from you.

–Melissa Smith |Executive Director| Friends of the Wisconsin Wolf & Wildlife Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance | Wildlife Policy & Government Affairs Phone: 608.234.8860 |PO Box 259891 Madison, WI 53715www.wiwolvesandwildlife.org