Alaska officials are pushing to continue the controversial predator control program in Western Alaska despite a recent court ruling deeming it unconstitutional. On Friday, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game submitted an emergency request to the state Board of Game, seeking authorization to extend the program for a third year.
The intensive management program aims to restore the declining Mulchatna Caribou Herd, which has plummeted from 200,000 animals in 1997 to just 13,000. Officials argue that predator control is essential to rebuilding the herd, which is a critical food source for dozens of rural communities.
Since the program began in 2023, the state has nearly killed 200 bears and 19 wolves, and officials report increased calf survival rates. The emergency regulation, which the agency believes is critical for accomplishing herd recovery objectives, will be discussed at the eight-day Board of Game conference in Anchorage.
However, the Alaska Wildlife Alliance has accused the state of evading the law, which prevailed in the current litigation. Just hours before, Director Nicole Schmitt slammed the Board of Game meeting the hastily publicized proposal for not providing adequate public notice.
Judge Andrew Guidi of the Superior Court ruled on March 14 that the Board of Game has breached constitutional standards by neglecting to offer sufficient public notice and to consider bear population consequences.
The decision also emphasized that habitat changes and changing climates, not just predators, are to blame for the fall in Caribou. The shrinking tundra, which is now covered in woody plants, has resulted in more moose-friendly habitats and fewer caribou food sources.
The state aims to increase the caribou herd to 30,00-80,00 animals to resume subsistence hunting. Opponents argue predator control ignores broader ecological challenges. The ongoing debate over the predator control program underscores the conflict between conservative goals and legal requirements.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
