Retired DNR Biologist Will Lead Wolf Ecology Group

A former longtime wildlife biologist for the state of Wisconsin is now heading up a nonprofit focused on educating the public on timber wolves and promoting wolf management.

Adrian Wydeven retired from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources last fall. In his new role, Wydeven said he hopes to advance public education and involvement on wolf management.

Wydeven said changing public attitudes toward wolves and the species’ changing federal status is a barrier to the scientific management that the alliance advocates for.

“Having them currently listed on the endangered species list really doesn’t benefit wolves in Wisconsin any further,” said Wydeven. “It kind of frustrates management efforts and I think it creates more intolerance toward wolves.”

A federal judge’s ruling last year relisted gray wolves as endangered and banned wolf hunts in the Great Lakes region. Wydeven said the alliance supports delisting and state management. He said those who disagree feel their voices have been left out by the state.

Wydeven said the Timber Wolf Alliance plans to express more concerns from the tribes in their seat on the state’s Wolf Advisory Committee.