Lethal Removal & Ultimate Beef Tailgate Party

Close to the Canadian border, in an area of Northeast Washington known as the Wedge an airborne marksman has shot several wolves this week in an effort to stop their pack’s escalating pattern of predation on livestock in the area. Seventeen cows and calves belonging to the Diamond M Ranch in northern Stevens County are believed to have been seriously injured or killed since July of this year by this Wedge Pack. Non-lethal efforts to minimize wolf conflict by the rancher and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife had proven unsuccessful in deterring the lethal wolf attacks. WDFW Director Phil Anderson says they’re committed to the recovery and sustainability of the gray wolf in Washington, which is reflected in their rapidly increasing numbers in the state, but that their recovery won’t be successful if persistent wolf attacks on livestock continues. There are eight confirmed, and at least four other wolf packs in the state.

If you’re a Cougar fan and a beef lover, tomorrow is your chance to bring the two together when Washington Beef Producers will be hosting the “Ultimate Beef Tailgate Party” at the Seattle game. Washington Cattlemen’s & Cattlewomen’s Association President Larry Olberding extends this invitation.

OLBERDNG: Beef is what’s for dinner at the Cougar game in Seattle this Saturday. The Cougars take on the Oregon Ducks and we’re rallying up all beef loving people to come join us, watch the game, and enjoy some chili samples. We’re going to be there early, we’ve got the tailgate contest going on, and the winner will get a really nice prize at the fifty yard line at half time.

See you at the game!

I’m Lacy Gray and that’s Washington Ag Today on the Northwest Ag Information Network.