The Durango-based non-profit Rocky Mountain Wolf Project is launching a $50,000 wolf anti-poaching reward – called the Colorado Wolf Reward – that will compensate people who share information leading to formal charges against those who illegally kill wolves in Colorado.
Gray wolves are a state and federally protected species and killing them is only allowed under exceptional circumstances, such as in defense of oneself or livestock, or after a wolf has killed livestock. The Federal Endangered Species Act and Colorado state statutes and regulations prohibit harassing, harming, or killing wolves.
The Colorado Wolf Reward will work with the existing tip hotline established by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, encouraging the public to report incidents involving the harming or killing of wolves.
The Rocky Mountain Wolf Project believes that increasing the funds available for responding to the illegal killing of wolves is necessary to raise the profile of wolf protection in the state and anticipate and prepare for targeted violence toward wolves during the initial stages of the reintroduction process. The reward will work hand-in-hand with existing law enforcement efforts.
“In other states, like Oregon, state and federal agencies embrace NGO-funded rewards and all parties work side-by-side to complement and enhance incentives to bring perpetrators of crimes to justice,” said Courtney Vail, Rocky Mountain Wolf Project’s board chair. “We hope for the same collaboration in Colorado.”
CPW can prosecute violators under civil or criminal statutes, with fines up to $100,000, up to one year in jail, and loss of hunting privileges. Upon conviction, the CPW Commission may suspend any or all hunting license privileges of the person for a period ranging from one year to life.
Individuals can leave anonymous tips or identify themselves when providing their reports on the incident. They do not have to testify in court. Citizens can call toll-free within Colorado at 1-877-COLO-OGT, Verizon cell phone users can dial #OGT, or contact CPW via email at game.thief@state.co.us