The USFWS’s decision to delist grey wolves has come under tremendous criticism, both for bowing to vested political and economic interests in the anti-wolf camp, as well as for being scientifically undependable.

On the science matter, a group of scientists have signed a joint letter to Secretary Interior Jewel lambasting the flawed science used to justify this decision. They say in part:

As scientists with expertise in carnivore taxonomy and conservation biology, we are writing to express serious concerns with a recent draft rule leaked to the press that proposes to remove Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves across the Lower 48 States, excluding the range of the Mexican gray wolf. Collectively, we represent many of the scientists responsible for the research referenced in the draft rule. Based on a careful review of the rule, we do not believe that the rule reflects the conclusions of our work or the best available science concerning the recovery of wolves, or is in accordance with the fundamental purpose of the Endangered Species Act to conserve endangered species and the ecosystems upon which they depend.

You can find that letter here.

The letter is being hosted on the PEER website. PEER stands for Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility. They have an enviable record of exposing corrupt and misguided environmental policies and practices, while simultaneously protecting whistleblowers and advocating for scientific integrity in environmental decision-making.

Image: Wolves next to a carcass, Yellowstone National Park. Wikimedia Commons.