Story perspectives

Former Congressman Challenges Colorado's Gray Wolf Reintroduction Plan

10/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Greg Lopez, a former congressman, says Colorado's plan to reintroduce Canadian gray wolves violates federal law.
Environmental organizations dispute the claim, stating Colorado has authority to source wolves from Canada.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rule allows flexible sourcing, and Colorado has previously captured wolves from British Columbia.
Montrose County's move to prohibit non-native species adds a hurdle to the voter-approved reintroduction effort.

History

Historical Context

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), signed into law by President Nixon on December 28, 1973, aimed to protect imperiled species like the gray wolf. While the ESA empowers states like Colorado to manage wildlife, it also creates tensions between state and federal authorities. The ongoing debate over reintroducing Canadian gray wolves highlights these conflicts and could influence future wildlife management policies.

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Story summary

Greg Lopez, a former congressman, says Colorado's plan to reintroduce Canadian gray wolves violates federal law.
Environmental organizations dispute the claim, stating Colorado has authority to source wolves from Canada.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rule allows flexible sourcing, and Colorado has previously captured wolves from British Columbia.
Montrose County's move to prohibit non-native species adds a hurdle to the voter-approved reintroduction effort.

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