SF1848

The bill S.F. No. 1848 proposes amendments to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.646, concerning wolf management. It includes the following key provisions:

1. Wolf Management Plan:

   • The Commissioner of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Commissioner of Agriculture, must adopt a wolf management plan.
     
   • The plan must aim to:
     
     • Ensure the long-term survival of wolves in Minnesota.
       
     • Reduce conflicts between wolves and humans.
       
     • Minimize livestock and pet depredation caused by wolves.
       
     • Manage the ecological impact of wolves on prey species and other predators.
       

2. Wolf Mortality Reporting:

   • The Commissioner must maintain and update a list quarterly of known wolf deaths reported by conservation officers.
     
   • The list must include the date and location of each death and be publicly available on the department's website.
     

3. Statewide Wolf Population Survey:

   • The Commissioner must conduct an annual statewide survey to estimate Minnesota’s wolf population.
     
   • The survey must cover the entire state rather than being restricted to a historical wolf range or a specific portion of the state.
     

This bill aims to enhance wolf population monitoring and management to balance ecological concerns, human-wildlife conflicts, and conservation efforts.