Maine news, sports, weather | Kennebec Journal, Augusta, Maine

Public calls science behind gray wolf proposal into question

BY DAN HARRINGTON, Correspondent

AUGUSTA -- Members of the public questioned the science behind a proposal that would end federal protection for the gray wolf during a hearing Wednesday at the Augusta Civic Center.

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A gray wolf.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photo

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Questions, concerns or independent research can be submitted to the agency by visiting www.regulations.gov. All comments will be published but must be received by July 5.

Representatives from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service held the hearing to educate the public about the potential rule change, which would cover the Western Great Lakes and Northeast, and to seek input from the community.

Approximately 20 people expressed concerns, most questioning the science behind the proposal.

"True scientists understand that we don't know everything, and we never will," said Geri Vistein, an independent conservation biologist from Wiscasset. "Wolves are going to do what they're doing to do."

The panel said new research indicates the gray wolf never inhabited New England; only the Eastern wolf did. That species is still present in Canada today.

The panel stressed that science shows that the Eastern wolf, formerly a subspecies of the gray wolf, should be classified as its own species.

Martin Miller, chief of the endangered species program, said the major difference between the two wolf species has to do with genetics and size.

"Animals that could appear very similar can be very different," Miller said.

Gerry Lavigne, who described himself as a wildlife biologist, said "98 percent of my genetics are chimpanzee" and went on to suggest that, if the proposal to remove federal protection for the gray wolf succeeds, it could result in "killing contests" and other vicious acts against the animal.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, no wolves inhabit Maine, but confirmed sightings occured in 1993 north of Moosehead Lake and in 1996 near Bangor.

Officials from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service encouraged more discussion on the issue.

"We really welcome comments. I have a strong belief that the more informed we get, the better. It leads to be a better decision," Mary Parkin, recovery coordinator, said.

Questions, concerns or independent research can be submitted to the agency by visiting www.regulations.gov.

All comments will be published but must be received by July 5.

Dan Harrington is a Kennebec Journal correspondent who lives in Augusta.