Opinion: The return of wolves to Colorado marks the beginning of a pivotal step towards addressing the biodiversity crisis on Earth.

In my view, the reintroduction of wolves in Colorado is a significant development that holds immense potential for restoring balance to our ecosystems. Wolves, as apex predators, play a crucial role in maintaining the natural order within an environment by regulating prey populations and influencing their behavior. By reintroducing these majestic creatures, we are taking a proactive stance in mitigating the ongoing decline of our planet’s biodiversity.

The impact of wolves on their surrounding ecosystems is multi-faceted. Their presence helps control herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing and subsequent habitat degradation. This, in turn, allows for the flourishing of vegetation and the restoration of damaged habitats. By shaping prey behavior, wolves also indirectly benefit other species that share these habitats, promoting a more diverse range of wildlife.

Moreover, the reintroduction of wolves in Colorado provides an opportunity for us to reconnect with the natural world and learn from its intricate web of interdependencies. Witnessing the return of these magnificent animals serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists within ecosystems and the importance of our stewardship in preserving it.

While it is essential to acknowledge the concerns of some individuals regarding the potential impact of wolves on livestock and local communities, it is crucial to approach these challenges with a balanced perspective. Implementing effective management strategies, such as compensation programs and targeted support for affected communities, can help address these concerns while still prioritizing the long-term ecological benefits of wolf reintroduction.

In conclusion, the return of wolves to Colorado signifies a significant step forward in tackling the biodiversity crisis that plagues our planet. By reintroducing these apex predators, we not only restore ecological balance but also foster a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationships that sustain our ecosystems. It is a chance for us to take responsibility and actively contribute to the preservation of Earth’s natural wonders.

In a historic move, the state of Colorado has become the first in the United States to reintroduce a federally listed endangered species to the wild without a mandate from the federal government. Gray wolves have been reintroduced to rural western Colorado, thanks to the votes of Coloradans in the 2020 general election. The wolves now roam across a diverse landscape of public lands, forests, private ranches, and popular recreation areas, including world-famous ski resorts.

The reintroduction of gray wolves was supported by a slim majority of Coloradans, with 50.91% voting in favor of the proposition. Thirteen out of 64 counties, mostly in the urban Front Range corridor, showed definitive support. However, the “yes” vote was not as strong in the less populated, agricultural, and recreational Western Slope region where the wolves will reside.

The reintroduction plan, mandated by Proposition 114, required the reintroduction of wolves no later than December 31, 2023. Thirteen days before the deadline, a group gathered in a remote corner of rural Grand County in northwest Colorado. Governor Jared Polis, along with his First Gentleman Marlon Reis, a dedicated team from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and influential individuals who helped make the reintroduction possible, gathered on a snowy day on a small piece of state-owned land surrounded by national forests.

Among the group were five wolves, transported in crates. As the doors of the crates were opened, the wolves, three gray and two black, bolted into the forest, marking their return to the wild. This moment was a source of pride for Colorado, as it was the result of a grassroots effort that involved conflict, compromise, and innovation.

The reintroduction of wolves has sparked both positive and negative beliefs among Coloradans. While ranchers understandably fear for their livelihoods, coalitions of ranchers and hunters played a significant role in crafting the reintroduction plan. Ranchers have been preparing for the presence of wolves since their reintroduction in Yellowstone National Park 29 years ago. Hunters also recognize the positive impact of wolves on elk populations in Idaho.

The reintroduction of wolves is seen as a step towards addressing the biodiversity crisis and improving habitat quality. Wolves, as apex predators, have a trophic cascade effect, positively influencing the entire food chain. Colorado aims to become a model for restoring ecosystems and building resilience for the future, although it acknowledges that the process will be complex and long-term.

One month into the reintroduction, the first public GPS collar tracking map was released, providing valuable insights into the wolves’ movements. Data from the Northern Rockies suggests that elk will make up approximately 80% of the wolves’ diet in Colorado, indicating that the elk population and hunting activities are unlikely to be significantly affected. Likewise, ranching practices are already evolving for various reasons, such as rotational grazing and the use of virtual fencing.

While change can be challenging, the reintroduction of wolves in Colorado demonstrates the positive outcomes it can bring. The next step in the state’s rewilding efforts could be the reintroduction of the wolverine, the world’s largest terrestrial weasel, which was recently listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

A bipartisan bill for wolverine reintroduction is expected to be introduced in the Colorado state Legislature during the current session. These efforts reflect the changing times on a changing planet.