ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is proposing to let hunters and trappers take 400 wolves this fall.
Minnesota has around 3,000 gray wolves. DNR officials say research indicates the population could sustain a higher harvest quota, but say they're taking a conservative approach for the state's first season. The region's wolves come off the endangered list on Friday.
The DNR proposes to cap the number of licenses at 6,000 that would be allocated via lottery.
The season would start in late November — when pelts are most prime — and would be closed once the quota is met.
DNR officials will outline their proposals to legislative committees Thursday. Lawmakers will have to pass a bill and the governor will have to sign it for a season to be held.
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DNR wolf management information: http://www.mndnr.gov/wolves
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
