Minnesota House Votes to Ban Recreational Wolf Hunting

Written by HLRBO - Alexandra Carter| 4/27/2023

In a bold move for wildlife conservation, the Minnesota House of Representatives recently cast their votes in favor of banning recreational wolf hunting and trapping, contingent on the removal of the animal from federal endangered species protection. The decision has sparked vigorous debate, highlighting the ongoing struggle between preserving the state’s natural resources and addressing the concerns of local communities.

A History of Opposition to Wolf Hunting

The Minnesota House has a history of voting against wolf hunting. Back in 2019, they narrowly passed the ban by a single vote. Although there isn’t a wolf hunting season scheduled currently, Minnesota was the only state permitting the practice from 2012 to 2014 before a judge returned the animal to the federal endangered species list. During those two years, more than 900 wolves were killed.

Concerns from GOP Lawmakers and DNR’s Stance

Several GOP lawmakers opposed the proposal, arguing that state wildlife officials should decide whether to allow wolf hunting. They cited concerns about wolves preying on deer, livestock, pets and potentially posing a threat to people.

“This will take options off the table if wolves do get to be more and more of a problem,” said Rep. Kurt Daudt of Crown. “[If] you see one in your backyard in the metro area? You’re gonna wish you could hunt it.”

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains that wolves are not dangerous to humans, with only one recorded instance of a wolf attacking a person in the state. Wolves are currently considered a threatened species in Minnesota and can only be killed in defense of human life. State and federal trappers are allowed to capture and kill wolves threatening pets or livestock. This resulted in the death of 142 wolves in 2021.

A DNR survey revealed that almost 50% of Minnesotans oppose wolf hunting, with around 41% supporting a season. 

In a statement, DNR spokesperson Gail Nosek said the agency does not support the House's plan to ban wolf hunting.

“In light of the robust, science-based plan we have in place, we do not support legislation that includes mandates or restricts the methods by which the Minnesota DNR manages wolves. Responsible fish and wildlife conservation requires that a full complement of management tools be available to the agency,” Nosek said.

The proposal will now go to the state Senate for consideration. The proposal is not currently part of the omnibus environment bill in that chamber.

If both the House and Senate approve these new bills and they are signed by the governor, they would effectively prevent any wolf hunting season from taking place, even if the animal loses its federal protections.

Find Your Next Hunting Lease with HLRBO

Discover the best hunting opportunities with HLRBO! With our extensive collection of hunting leases located around the country, you’ll find the perfect spot for your next hunting adventure. Join the HLRBO community today and start exploring the great outdoors like never before.