Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Request for Information on Implementation of the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) Nonessential Experimental Population Rule in Colorado
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a Notice on April 6, 2026 requesting public comments and data on the implementation of the 10(j) nonessential experimental population rule for gray wolves in Colorado, effective since December 8, 2023. The agency is particularly concerned that verified wolf-livestock depredation events have significantly exceeded the funds available in Colorado's livestock compensation program. The Service seeks detailed stakeholder input on how Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is applying the rule, including conflict prevention, non-lethal and lethal control measures, verification of depredations, coordination under the December 12, 2023 Memorandum of Agreement, and impacts on wild ungulate populations. Comments are due by June 5, 2026 via regulations.gov or mail. The RFI also solicits feedback on the adequacy, timeliness, and accessibility of the state's compensation program.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Requests public comments and data on implementation of the gray wolf 10(j) NEP rule published November 8, 2023
- Comment period ends June 5, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET
- Seeks specific information on effectiveness of nonlethal deterrence measures and lethal control of wolves attacking livestock
+ 3 more changes with Pro
Obligations
What this law requires
Submit comments and data on implementation of the gray wolf 10(j) nonessential experimental population rule in Colorado by June 5, 2026, using either the Federal eRulemaking Portal (regulations.gov, Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2026-0958) or U.S. mail to the specified address.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) must share timely information with partners and stakeholders regarding the Colorado Gray Wolf Restoration Program to foster transparent and effective communications regarding goals and commitments under the December 12, 2023 Memorandum of Agreement.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife must conduct public outreach and provide information about gray wolves and gray wolf management in Colorado.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife must implement proactive strategies and conduct or direct non-lethal and lethal control actions to reduce and/or resolve gray wolf-livestock conflict and human safety concerns.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife must communicate regularly with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wolf Coordinator or appropriate Service representative at minimum on a quarterly basis.