DNR Officials Expect Limited Wolf Season In 2012

ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) – Officials with the Minnesota DNR have started planning for a limited gray wolf hunting and trapping season later this year.

The action follows a December announcement that wolves will return to state management on Jan. 27 after about 35 years of being under federal protection. Tom Landwehr, the DNR commissioner, said they are taking a "deliberate and science-based" approach to implementing wolf hunting and trapping seasons.

Landwehr said the DNR's job is to take action to ensure the long-term survival of wolves.

The DNR's proposal to limit the wolf hunting season would manage the species as a prized and high-valued fur species by setting the season when pelts are prime, limiting the take through a lottery and requiring the registration of animals.

Minnesota has an estimated 3,000 wolves, a number that's remained stable for the last 10 years.