On September 29, 2008, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia overturned the Department of the Interiors decision to remove the Gray Wolf (Great Lakes Distinct Population Segment) from federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections. The status of gray wolves in the western Great Lakes is once again endangered under the endangered Species Act, except in Minnesota, where they are once again designated as threatened.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is in the process of examining the opinion to determine the most appropriate course of action. In the meantime, we published a notice on the Service website and advised the relevant states about this change.
The Service will cooperatively resume management responsibilities with the States of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan in accordance with the courts order and we will examine the ruling to determine our next actions.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov.
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