A Helena judge has upheld Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission’s 2025-2026 wolf hunting and trapping rules despite concerns about the state’s wolf population estimates. District court Judge Christopher Abbott stated that maintaining these regulations while an ongoing lawsuit continues won’t drive wolf numbers to unsustainable levels.
WildEarth Guardians, Project Coyote, and others challenged four 2021 Montana laws aimed at reducing wolf numbers. They argued that a high wolf hunting quota of 458, plus an additional potential removal of 100 wolves due to livestock conflicts, threatens the wolf population. The environmental groups believe these actions endanger the species’ long-term survival.
Montana estimates there are around 1,100 wolves, though this figure is disputed by environmental groups. Connie Poten of Footloose Montana called the decision a “severe setback” but believes the ruling will bolster efforts to protect the species. “Wolves will not die in vain,” Poten declared.
The order followed a two-hour hearing and the trapping season’s commencement three weeks ago, which will end by March 15, 2026. During the hearing, Alexander Scolavino argued that the state is unlikely to reach the 558-wolf target, as no previous season surpassed a 350-wolf take.
Abbott shared similar views. He remarked that hunters and trappers have not met the 334-wolf quota from previous seasons. Additionally, livestock conflicts have reduced over the years, making it improbable to reach the potential removal of 100 wolves.
On certain matters, Abbott sided with environmental groups, acknowledging their constitutional environmental rights claims and questioning the reliability of the state’s wolf population estimate. The court will continue to address these unresolved issues.
Abbott highlighted wolves’ ecological and economic importance, like managing elk and deer populations and supporting Yellowstone’s wildlife tourism. Yet, he expressed concerns about the state’s wolf-counting methods and noted these significant issues need court attention.
Meanwhile, another lawsuit seeks to relax the hunting and trapping regulations to align with the Montana Constitution and a 2021 directive to decrease the wolf population. According to the state’s wolf management dashboard, 83 wolves have been killed as of Dec. 22, and specific units near Yellowstone closed after reaching kill limits.
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