WISCONSIN Hunters
Pack the House in Medford
Hunter Nation Leads Sold-Out Event
to discuss Common-Sense Wolf Management
The Predator Management Forum, hosted by Taylor County Sportsman’s Club and Hunter Nation, Draws Standing-Room-Only Crowd — Covered by The Star News (June 20, 2024)
When more than 200 hunters, farmers, and outdoor advocates filled the Simek Recreation Center in Medford, Wisconsin, on June 18, it was clear that the issue of wolf management isn’t just policy—it’s personal. Hosted by the Taylor County Sportsman’s Club in partnership with Hunter Nation, the Predator Management Forum drew a standing-room-only crowd determined to protect Wisconsin’s wildlife, livestock, and way of life.
“Change is only going to happen through pressure on elected officials who have the ability to make that change.”
— The Star News, “Pressure cited as key to wolf management change” (June 20, 2024)
Hunter Nation Founder and President Keith Mark and Wisconsin State Director Chris Vaughan led the discussion, joined by U.S. Congressman Tom Tiffany and State Legislators Mary Felzkowski, Romaine Quinn, and Chanz Green—each of whom spoke candidly about the urgent need to restore state management of the gray wolf population.
Mark opened the evening by commending Rep. Tiffany for his leadership on the Trust the Science Act, a bill that passed the U.S. House earlier this year to remove gray wolves from the federal Endangered Species List and prevent activist judges from overturning sound wildlife policy. “It’s time to trust science and return wildlife management to the people who actually live with the consequences,” Mark said.
Tiffany encouraged attendees to keep the pressure on Washington, particularly Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin, to support wolf delisting in the Senate. “You guys are passionate about this because it’s part of your lifestyle,” Rep. Tiffany said. “This is your way of life — and it’s worth fighting for.”
At the state level, lawmakers reiterated Hunter Nation’s position that Wisconsin’s 2023 Wolf Management Plan must include a specific population target to allow for responsible management once wolves are delisted. Senator Felzkowski reminded attendees that the legislature passed a bill requiring a clear numerical goal—only for Governor Tony Evers to veto it. “We can’t manage what we refuse to measure,” she said.
Hunter Nation’s Wisconsin State Director Chris Vaughan emphasized that Hunter Nation isn’t calling for unregulated hunting — but balanced, science-driven management.
“We’re fighting for balance, for science, and for the future of hunting in Wisconsin.”
— Chris Vaughan, Wisconsin State Director, Hunter Nation
The night closed with a simple but resounding message that echoed through the room: If hunters don’t stand up and speak out, no one will.
The Medford event was just the latest example of Hunter Nation’s growing influence as the united voice of the American hunter – bringing together grassroots sportsmen and women, policymakers, and conservation leaders to defend our outdoor heritage.
As the Star News noted, the fight for common-sense wolf management will ultimately be won not in courtrooms, but by citizens who vote, advocate, and make their voices heard. Hunter Nation is proud to lead that charge.