Wolves and livestock
Ranching and farming are a vital part of the state’s economy, and the lands that foster this industry also provide critical habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is responsible for protecting and managing wildlife, and is committed to working with livestock producers to reduce conflicts with wildlife, including wolves.
Although wolves mostly prey on elk, deer, and moose, some will injure or kill livestock or scavenge on carcasses. WDFW provides assistance to producers to help keep livestock safe in the presence of wolves on the landscape.
Communication between livestock owners and WDFW is key to living with wolves on the landscape. A toll-free line for reporting problems is available year-round, seven days a week, 24 hours a day at 1-877-933-9847.
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Wolf-livestock conflict prevention
WDFW works directly with livestock producers to adapt nonlethal deterrents to individual situations.
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Damage prevention cooperative agreements
Agreements with livestock producers are designed to proactively prevent or minimize damage caused by wildlife to crops or livestock.
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Compensation for depredation incidents
Owners of sheep, cattle, or horses killed or injured by wolves and other predators may be eligible for compensation.
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Wolf conservation and management action criteria
WDFW works with the citizen-based Wolf Advisory Group to ensure management actions consistent with the state plan.