For Immediate Release
July 27, 2008
CONTACT: Steve Merritt
Public Information Officer
Montana Department of Livestock
406-444-9431
Wolf compensation & mitigation program now accepts on-line donations
The Montana Livestock Loss Reduction and Mitigation Program (LLRMP) , which reimburses livestock producers for confirmed losses to wolf depredation, is now accepting online donations at http://liv.mt.gov/.
"We've made it easy for people who want to see wolves and livestock coexist by giving them a way to make online donations," said program coordinator George Edwards.
The new program, which is administratively attached to the Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL), was created by legislation passed in 2007. It replaces a successful program funded by Defenders of Wildlife for the past two decades.
Legislation that created the program also established, but did not fund, a $5 million trust that will ultimately fund the compensation program as well as grants to help livestock producers prevent wolf-livestock conflicts and use non-lethal management techniques.
Edwards said public support is needed to ensure the program's success.
"As wolves grow in number and expand their range, there are going to be conflicts," Edwards said. "With its two-pronged approach, this program offers something to livestock producers as well as wolf advocates."
With a busy summer for wolf activity, the board has approved and paid eight claims totaling $10,198.19, and more claims are pending.
"The program has worked smoothly so far, although some livestock producers are unaware of the program, or they've heard about it but don't know how to submit an application," Edwards said.
The process begins when a livestock owner contacts USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services (WS) to request a depredation investigation. If the investigation confirms that the loss was caused by wolves, the livestock owner receives an investigative report along with a compensation application. Once submitted, the application is reviewed and approved or denied.
"It's a simple process, but it's important to remember all losses must be investigated by Wildlife Services to qualify for compensation," Edwards said.
Livestock producers can request an investigation by contacting Kraig Glazier, USDA-WS West District Supervisor at (406) 458-0106; Jim Hoover, USDA-WS East District Supervisor at (406) 322-4303; or John Steuber, USDA-WS State Director, at (406) 657-6464.
The board uses weekly USDA market reports to determine values for commercial livestock; values for registered animals are determined by using sales receipts for animals of similar age and sex sold at public and private sales. Payments are made for cattle, sheep, horses, mules, goats, swine and livestock guard animals.
In addition to donations, Edwards is also seeking other sources of support, including contributions from foundations and other charitable organizations, grants, and state and federal appropriations.
"Based on the program's past success, we're optimistic that that kind of support is out there," he said.
All gifts to the reimbursement program are tax deductible. Donations can also be sent to the MLLRMB, PO Box 202005, Helena MT, 59620-2005.
The program is directed by a seven-member board consisting of three members nominated by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks, three members nominated by MDOL, and one member of the public appointed by the Governor. Edwards said the board does not get involved in wolf management decisions.
"This is a reimbursement program, and that's all we focus on," Edwards said. "We'll leave wolf management up to the experts at Fish, Wildlife and Parks."
For additional information about the program, see the LLRMB web site at http://liv.mt.gov/liv/LM/index.asp, or contact Edwards at 406/444-5609 (gedwards@mt.gov)
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