Ute Mountain Ute Tribe joins Colorado wolf agreement
Southern Ute Tribe signed similar deal in 2024
Gray wolves, formerly only released by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in their northern zone encompassing the ski resort towns of Aspen, Vail and nearby communities, might be headed to Southern Colorado soon. Ali Longwell at Summit Daily News reports the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Colorado agency reached a recent agreement about managing the contentious species in the southwestern portion of the state.
The agreement recognizes the tribe’s sovereignty to manage gray wolves within its reservation, including specific language stipulating the tribe will develop its own plans for addressing potential livestock losses caused by wolves on tribal lands. The tribe and tribal members will be eligible for compensation from the state for wolf-related losses. Federal protections remain in place for gray wolves on tribal lands under the Endangered Species Act, and so do the special rules that allow a state agency to manage the federally endangered species locally.
The Southern Ute Tribe’s agreement to similar protocols in 2024 preceded wolf talks with the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, but the state of Colorado has run into recent issues sourcing the wolves for reintroduction. Adequate consultation with the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe has played an important role in determining where Colorado wolves come from, and where they could be headed.
Spotted an error? Suggest a correction.
We provide independent Native-focused reporting that gives our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.
