Michelle Bittner’s lawsuit against the state’s Mulchatna Predator Control program has been reinstated by the Alaska Supreme Court. This decision gives Bittner the right to challenge the program, which kills bears and wolves to boost the declining Mulchatna caribou herd.
Bittner, an Anchorage attorney, had visited Katmai National Park and Preserve, where she enjoyed viewing bears. The Supreme Court found that her interest in viewing bears was harmed by the state’s program, which has killed nearly 200 bears so far.
The Mulchatna caribou herd has declined sharply since the 1990s, from 200,000 to less than 13,000. The state Board of Game approved the Mulchatna Predator Control program to help boost the caribou numbers. However, the program is highly controversial.
Some scientists argue that climate change and habitat transformation are the main causes of the herd’s decline. They claim that killing bears and wolves will not solve the problem. On the other hand, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game argues that the program is necessary to help the caribou herd recover.
The case will now return to the Superior Court level to sort out the merits of Bittner’s case. The Mulchatna Predator Control program is set to continue until 2028 unless the court intervenes.
Meanwhile, Bittner urges Governor Mike Dunleavy to pause the program until the legal case is resolved. She claims that the program is ineffective and inhumane.
In addition, the Alaska Wildlife Alliance has filed a separate lawsuit challenging the program. The alliance argues that the state failed to provide adequate notice for public comment before approving the program.
The controversy surrounding the Mulchatna Predator Control program highlights the complex issues surrounding wildlife management in Alaska. As the case moves forward, it will be important to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders involved.
The Alaska Supreme Court’s ruling gives Michelle Bittner the right to challenge the Mulchatna Predator Control program in court.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
