Federal Threat to Colorado's Wolf Reintroduction Program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has threatened to revoke Colorado's authority to manage its gray wolf reintroduction program, citing compliance issues with the state's management plan. This conflict arises from a letter dated December 18, 2025, from USFWS Director Brian Nesvik, which demands a detailed report from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) regarding its wolf management activities. If CPW fails to comply by January 18, 2026, the federal government will assume control over the program.

USFWS Will Terminate Colorado’s Wolf Program Unless the State Complies with This UltimatumKRCC - NPR - Colorado SpringsThe Coloradoan

The USFWS's concerns center on two main incidents. First, Colorado released 15 wolves captured in British Columbia in January 2025, which Nesvik claims violated the terms of the state's management plan that restricts sourcing wolves to specific regions within the continental U.S. Second, CPW re-released a wolf from the Copper Creek Pack, known for preying on livestock, despite recommendations against such actions in the management plan. These actions have prompted USFWS to assert that Colorado is not adhering to its memorandum of agreement regarding wolf management.

KRCC - NPR - Colorado SpringsUSFWS Will Terminate Colorado’s Wolf Program Unless the State Complies with This UltimatumThe Coloradoan

Should the USFWS revoke Colorado's management authority, it would result in the federal government taking over all aspects of wolf management, including relocation and lethal removal of wolves. This shift would eliminate CPW's flexibility in managing the wolf population, which has been a contentious issue among ranchers and wildlife advocates alike. Ranchers argue that the reintroduction has led to increased livestock predation, while advocates for the wolves emphasize the importance of restoring the species to its natural habitat.

KCFC - NPR - BoulderUSFWS Will Terminate Colorado’s Wolf Program Unless the State Complies with This UltimatumThe Coloradoan

CPW has indicated its intention to comply with the USFWS's request for information. Luke Perkins, a spokesperson for CPW, stated, “CPW believes that it is advantageous for CPW to continue as the lead management agency for Colorado’s gray wolves.” Conversely, Rob Edward, president of the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project, criticized the USFWS's actions, arguing that the agency is undermining an innovative wolf management program. He described the federal intervention as “flabbergasting,” suggesting that the USFWS is overstepping its role in species recovery.

USFWS Will Terminate Colorado’s Wolf Program Unless the State Complies with This UltimatumKCFC - NPR - BoulderThe Coloradoan

The situation is further complicated by a legislative push to remove gray wolves from the U.S. Endangered Species list, spearheaded by GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert. If successful, this bill would transfer all management authority over wolves back to the states, potentially allowing Colorado to continue its management efforts without federal oversight.

KRCC - NPR - Colorado Springs

There are discrepancies regarding the compliance of CPW with the management plan. While USFWS cites specific violations, CPW maintains that it has coordinated with USFWS and complied with all applicable laws. The outcome of this conflict remains uncertain as both sides prepare for potential legal and administrative battles.

USFWS Will Terminate Colorado’s Wolf Program Unless the State Complies with This Ultimatum

• “Colorado is prioritizing WOLVES over American ranchers!” — Doug Burgum, U.S. Interior Secretary

The Coloradoan

• “It’s completely flabbergasting. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an agency that’s supposed to be in charge of recovering the species, is injecting itself into an innovative wolf program and threatening to shut it down,” — Rob Edward, President of the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project

KCFC - NPR - Boulder

• “18 letter, added, "CPW has coordinated with USFWS throughout its gray wolf reintroduction effort, and has complied with guidance from USFWS as well as all applicable federal and state laws.” — Luke Perkins, CPW Spokesperson

The Coloradoan

As the deadline for compliance approaches, the future of Colorado's wolf reintroduction program hangs in the balance, with significant implications for wildlife management and ranching interests in the state.

The Coloradoan