MADISON, WI – Hunter Nation commends Senator Rob Stafsholt (R–New Richmond) and Representative Chanz Green (R–Grand View) for introducing legislation that requires the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to include a clear statewide wolf population goal in its wolf management plan. This important bill responds to the DNR’s recently approved wolf rule, which moved forward without a numeric population goal despite concerns raised by legislators and stakeholders. This critical legislation addresses a significant gap in Wisconsin’s current wolf management framework.

By directing the DNR to set an explicit population goal, Senator Stafsholt and Representative Green are providing the objective standard needed to manage Wisconsin’s wolf population responsibly—especially if the gray wolf is removed from the endangered species list and the state regains full authority to manage the species. A numeric goal will give policymakers and the public a clear benchmark for evaluating whether the population is too high, too low, or in balance.

“Hunters and rural families in Northern Wisconsin have been asking for common-sense, science-based wolf management for years,” said Keith Mark, Founder of Hunter Nation. “You cannot manage what you don’t measure. By requiring the DNR to establish a clear, objective wolf population goal, Senator Stafsholt and Representative Green are standing up for those communities and bringing much-needed accountability and transparency back into the process. Hunter Nation is proud to support their leadership on this issue.”

The legislation offers a constructive path forward following the adoption of the wolf plan by ensuring that future discussions focus on objective targets rather than political considerations. Hunter Nation urges lawmakers across Wisconsin to support this bill and stand with hunters, livestock owners, and rural families who live with the day-to-day impacts of wolf management decisions.

Why this legislation matters

• Science-based, objective management – A numeric wolf population goal gives wildlife managers and policymakers a clear, measurable benchmark for setting hunting and trapping quotas and evaluating long-term sustainability.

• Protecting rural communities and livestock – Defined management targets help balance conservation with the safety and economic interests of rural families, farmers, and livestock producers across Northern Wisconsin.

• Preparing for federal delisting – As removal of the gray wolf from the endangered species list becomes more likely, this bill ensures Wisconsin has a responsible state-based management framework ready to go.

• Restoring accountability and oversight – A clear population goal strengthens legislative oversight and makes it easier for the public to hold the DNR accountable for keeping wolf numbers at levels that reflect both conservation needs and local concerns.