Defenders Responds to Late Hour Lawsuit Challenging Colorado Gray Wolf Reintroduction

DENVER – Late Monday, the Gunnison County Stockgrowers’ Association, Inc. and Colorado Cattlemen’s Association filed a lawsuit challenging Colorado’s gray wolf reintroduction, an initiative three years in the making.  

“Defenders is sorely disappointed by this transparent, eleventh-hour attempt to delay efforts to bring wolves and their ecological benefits back to Colorado,” said Michael Saul, Rockies and Plains Program Director at Defenders of Wildlife. “Coloradans voted, the state worked extensively with ranchers and conservationists alike to prepare, and the lawful path forward is clear. Defenders stands poised to respond to ensure this last-minute maneuver will not thwart the historic return of the wolf.” 

Colorado voters passed a ballot measure in 2020 requiring Colorado Parks and Wildlife to reintroduce gray wolves to the state. After three years of planning and preparation, CPW is on track to meet the state-mandated December 31 deadline to begin the reintroduction — a feat that wouldn’t have been possible without extensive collaboration and preparation by the governor's office, CPW, partnering agencies, organizations, scientists, and millions of Colorado voters.