Colorado Wildlife Commission Discusses Ongoing Copper Creek Wolf Pack Livestock Conflicts

The Copper Creek wolf pack in Pitkin County continues to harass cattle despite increased hazing efforts and the lethal removal of one yearling by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Wildlife officials remain hesitant to lethally remove more wolves, preferring to use range riders and nonlethal methods to modify pack behavior, though ranchers express significant frustration with ongoing conflicts and resource strain. During a special CPW Commission meeting, it was clarified that the commission does not have the authority to direct specific actions such as further removals; instead, such decisions fall under the CPW division's responsibilities. The pack, released from a sanctuary in January, has been linked to multiple livestock attacks, prompting ranchers to lose trust in the agency's management. Despite no new confirmed depredations since the removal, unconfirmed incidents persist, and CPW has paid over $410,000 in wolf damage compensation. The commission meeting served as an informational session to discuss the complex issue and reaffirm existing policies rather than deciding on new measures.