To the editor:

Facts don’t matter to those who detest the wolf. They embellish stories, make false claims and find any excuse to justify their hatred.

The wolf population has shown no growth since 2011 when the population peaked at 687 animals. The most recent survey reflects a population of 618 wolves and it has taken more than 20 years to reach this level.

The benefits of wolves to the ecosystem are many. Research suggests that wolves may limit the spread of diseases such as CWD. It is no coincidence that EHD, bovine TB and CWD have been found in Michigan’s deer population – all in areas with no wolves.

There is also compelling scientific evidence of top-down trophic effects generated by wolves because wolves alter deer movements allowing for forest and habitat regeneration simply because deer spend less time in one place.

Wolves increase biodiversity by creating a rippling effect throughout plant and animal communities. In areas of younger aspen stands, and wolves, one study showed there were four-five times more bird species.

Wolves provide economic benefits to communities. In Ely Minnesota (pop 3500), the International Wolf Center adds about $3 million to the local economy and created the equivalent of 66 full-time jobs. The number one animal, visitors hope to see in Yellowstone is the wolf. A study showed more than 150,000 people visit Yellowstone annually specifically because of wolves, bringing $35 million to Idaho, Montana, Wyoming yearly.

Wolves also have a cultural and intrinsic value. As a resident of the U.P. I enjoy finding their tracks, hearing them howl or catching a photo on my trail camera. As evidenced by the overwhelming rejection of two wolf hunting bills by Michigan voters, I believe most Michiganders appreciate the valuable role of wolves. It is just a vocal minority who choose to reject scientific data and instead rely on tall tales.

Nancy Warren

Ewen