Wolf Management in Wisconsin
Hunter Nation’s Legislative Advocacy Stands Against Weak Wolf Management in Wisconsin
Hunter Nation mobilized grassroots support and testified before the Wisconsin Senate Committee, standing firm against CR 23-047’s lack of a numeric wolf population goal.
March 4, 2025
Hunter Nation is proud to highlight its latest advocacy efforts in Wisconsin, where its leadership took a stand against the state’s weak wolf management regulations. At the heart of this effort was a targeted grassroots strategy, culminating in testimony from Wisconsin State Director Chris Vaughan before the Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Sporting Heritage.
Hunter Nation, a leading pro-hunting and conservation advocacy group, engaged in a strategic campaign to ensure that Wisconsin’s wolf population is managed using science-based methods rather than emotion-driven policies. This initiative focused on mobilizing members, influencing key legislative decisions, and ensuring that the voices of hunters and rural communities were heard in the state’s wildlife management debate.
Why Hunter Nation Opposed CR 23-047
Hunter Nation recognized the urgency of fighting against CR 23-047, which failed to include a clearly defined numeric wolf population goal. Without such a goal, Wisconsin’s wolf population could continue to grow unchecked, threatening the balance of local ecosystems, endangering livestock, and diminishing hunting opportunities.
In recent legislative hearings, anti-hunting activists dominated the discussion, highlighting the need for more hunter involvement. By standing against this flawed proposal, Hunter Nation aimed to protect Wisconsin’s wildlife management practices from being dictated by political influence rather than sound conservation principles.
Quick Summary
Hunter Nation testified before the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Financial Institutions and Sporting Heritage, arguing for a science-based wolf management plan rather than an unchecked protection policy.
- Chris Vaughan’s testimony called for a statewide wolf population goal and a defined harvest quota to ensure responsible conservation.
- Hunter Nation aligned with the Wisconsin Bear Hunters Association and Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association in opposition to CR 23-047.
- Pro-wolf activists and organizations such as the Wisconsin DNR, Sierra Club, and Timber Wolf Alliance voiced support for the regulation.
- Despite anticipated legislative approval, Governor Tony Evers is expected to veto any pro-hunting amendments, making continued advocacy critical.
What’s Inside
Campaign Strategy: Hunter Nation activated its grassroots base, rallying hunters, conservationists, and rural landowners to push back against CR 23-047.
Advocacy Execution: Through direct engagement, testimony, and coordination with allied organizations, Hunter Nation provided a strong pro-hunting voice in the legislative process.
Results: The campaign emphasized the importance of hunter participation in legislative hearings, exposing the pro-wolf bias present in the debate.
Legislative Impact: Although Hunter Nation has enough support to send the bill back to the Assembly and Senate, Governor Evers is likely to veto any efforts that introduce a scientific wolf population goal.
Legislative Outcome and Next Steps
Hunter Nation’s advocacy has put pro-hunting voices at the forefront of Wisconsin’s wolf management debate, but the fight is far from over. While the organization and its allies have the votes to advance the measure, Governor Evers' veto remains a significant roadblock. Moving forward, Hunter Nation will continue to rally hunters, educate lawmakers, and fight for a balanced, conservation-focused approach to wolf management.
Conclusion
Hunter Nation’s strategic advocacy campaign demonstrates the power of grassroots mobilization in shaping wildlife management policies. The group remains committed to fighting for science-based conservation, hunting rights, and responsible predator control policies.
To stay informed and support our ongoing efforts in Wisconsin and across the country, visit Hunter Nation’s website or contact Chris Vaughan directly at Chris@HunterNation.org.
For more details on how Hunter Nation is protecting the future of hunting and wildlife conservation, reach out to us today!
Chris Vaughan, Hunter Nation Wisconsin Director (Left), Senator Rob Stafsholt (Center), Scott Meyer (Right)