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State unveils new wolf plan: After 19 public meetings and more than 65,000 public comments, the state released its revised plan to recover gray wolves in Washington that should both please and upset cattlemen, hunters and conservationists.
Grizzlies: no longer as elusive as sasquatch: The powerful predators are so rare in Washington - best estimates are fewer than 20 bears - that for years belief in the Cascade grizzly's existence has required a childlike acceptance similar to that reserved by youngsters for Santa Claus.
Easement protects working ranch and wildlife habitat near Kettle Crest in Ferry county: Mitch Friedman, Conservation Northwest’s executive director, said, “The Gotham Ranch is providing beef, timber, and livelihoods in a way that is compatible with the needs of wolverine, lynx, and other wildlife. Nestled right up against the Kettle Crest and the potential wilderness lands there, this represents a great balance that I think a lot of people can get behind.”
Canada lynx collared near Eightmile: Mar 9 - Biologists begin a study of the Canada lynx in the Methow Valley to help "land managers better understand what is needed for the continuation of the species in the North Cascades ecosystem."
The Columbia Highlands on KUOW's Weekday with Steve Scher: KUOW's Steve Scher interviews Conservation Northwest's Mitch Friedman and author Craig Romano about a special corner of the state between the Kettle River Range and the Selkirk Mountains that many of us hardly know.
Burke Museum's owl show opens a door to a larger view: Seattle Times' Danel Chasen interviews photographer Paul Bannick, who serves as development director for Conservation Northwest, on the ecology of owls and woodpeckers, and a new exhibit. "The area of northern Washington, for which Conservation Northwest is pushing a Columbia Highlands Initiative, probably has the highest owl density in the state."
Court dismisses challenge to marbled murrelet protection: The timber industry's suit is moot: AP environmental writer Jeff Barnard reports on appeals court dismissal of an attempt to deny protection of the marbled murrelet and its old growth home.
Fifty B.C. faith leaders urge politicians to protect environment: A message of unity for wildlife and habitat from Canada's faith leaders is sent to Premier Christy Clark.
There's more to the wolf story: Conservation Northwest's Jay Kehne discusses wolves in Washington, addressing some of the myths that prevent people from understanding and accepting wolves.
Feds give $3.5 million for Methow Valley habitat: The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program funding helps protect private land easements in the Methow, a critical route for connectivity for North Cascades wildlife.
Wolf management debate comes to Kittitas County: "There's plenty of room for wolves. The issue is: Are humans going to let them come back to the landscape?" said Conservation Northwest's Jasmine Minbashian. And per Executive Director Mitch Friedman: "The wolf's return to the Cascades is an important milestone for restoring the wildlife heritage of these wild mountains. Wolves play an important role in maintaining a balance of predator and prey that has trickle down benefits for all sorts of wildlife from eagles to bears."
Dawson ranch will get 'working ranch' protection: "This conservation easement is a great program that won't work for everybody, but it worked for us," says John Dawson. "It's good for wildlife and helps the economy of ranching communities."
Commission questions Wash. areas for wolf recovery: "Wolves are about understanding the facts and the real data and not letting fear overshadow your judgment," said Jay Kehne, who lives in Omak and represents Conservation Northwest, urging the commission to support the plan. The number of wolves required for delisting under the plan is based on science, he said.
Reward offered for info on B.C. grizzly poacher: The Pemberton Wildlife Association is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone who has information about the poaching of a grizzly bear in the Pemberton, B.C., area on Nov. 17.
Whirling into the forest primeval: Heli-hiking in Canada has become a way to take in the beauty of the terrain. However, conservation groups such as Conservation Northwest wonder what effect this activity will have on the wildlife of the area.
Twisp residents indicted for poaching wolves, smuggling: Reporter Ann McCreary reports in-depth. Biologists hold that even if the Lookout pack dies out because of the illegal killings, the territory they inhabited may attract new wolves. Conservation Northwest's Mitch Friedman is quoted, "...a poaching like this is a blow to us all."
Poached past the brink?: This article on the North Cascade's Lookout pack written by KC Mehaffey of the Wenatchee World was picked up by the Seattle Times, Seattle PI, Kennewick Tri-City Herald, The Olympian, The Bellingham Herald, The Kitsap Sun, The Everett Herald, The Tacoma News Tribune, and The Oregonian.
New report debunks myth of “catastrophic wildfire”: Matthew Koehler discusses the report by the John Muir Project (JMP) stating that there is no such thing as "catastrophic wildfire" in our forests.
Wolverines judged needy of Endangered Species protection: Outdoors blog - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says that the wolverine, known for its strength and determination, should be listed as a candidate species.
Lookout Pack dwindles in size: Feb 9 - The Lookout Mountain wolf pack is down to 2-3 wolves, and wildlife officials are trying to determine whether there is a breeding female among them.
Measure Seeks to Give Border Patrol Power to Circumvent Environmental Laws: “Compared to the southern border, it is an infinitesimally small number. It is like one in a year, not thousands,” said Chip Jenkins, superintendent of North Cascades National Park, who says he believes the current laws are fine for his area of Washington State.
Conservation, Recreation and Preservation Generate $1 Trillion Per Year for U.S. Economy: In 2006, the combined spending effect of hunting, fishing and wildlife watching associated with National Forest Service land totaled $9.5 billion in annual retail sales, supported 189,400 jobs and provided $1.01 billion in annual federal tax revenues.
Plan gives OHV riders legal access to more routes: Off-highway vehicle riders have more routes for legally riding their ATVs and motorcycles on the Colville National Forest, according to a plan approved this month.
Feds propose habitat protections for Selkirk caribou: The southern Selkirk Mountains caribou was listed as an endangered species in 1984. At last count, 46 caribou were surviving in the Selkirk Mountains of North Idaho, northeastern Washington and British Columbia.
Forest road plan aims at bear safety: Keeping people away from grizzly bears is the goal of forest plan amendments for the Idaho Panhandle, Kootenai and Lolo national forests, which will restrict motor vehicle travel into prime grizzly habitat. Over the past decade, environmental groups have argued that the agency needed to do more to keep people and bears apart by restricting motor vehicle traffic into core grizzly habitat.
Breaking down barriers along I-90: A groundbreaking research project assesses the migration habits of animals to reduce the likelihood of tragic collisions along the planned I-90 expansion near Snoqualmie Pass.
Province needs to protect ecosystems that cross borders: Study says: A study looking at the vulnerability of “transboundary” species in B.C. included a case study on the importance of the antelope-brush ecosystem and grasslands of the South Okanagan-Similkameen.
Pacific Northwest Forests Could Store More Carbon, Help Address Greenhouse Issues: The Science Daily reports on some new findings which show that if forests in the Pacific Northwest were allowed to grow for another 50 years their potential to store atmospheric carbon would increase by 15%
Last batch of fishers released in Olympic National Park: Tom Callis of the Peninsula Daily News reports on the final fisher release.
Exploring the wild frontier of Jumbo Valley, B.C.: For more than 20 years, determined developer Glacier Resorts Ltd. has battled fervent local opposition to a proposed billion-dollar, year-round glacier-skiing resort at the head of the valley.... Now, two recent developments - a groundbreaking grizzly bear census and the Ktunaxa Nation's declaration that it will do everything within its power to protect the land - have changed the landscape of the battle.
Saving private forests - Old rivals unite: Conservation Northwest is part of a unique coalition supporting the Community Forestry Conservation Act of 2009. The bill will protect working forests and the jobs that go with them.
Three things Blanchard needs: Mitch Friedman, the Skagit Land Trust, Friends of Blanchard Mountain, the Back Country Horsemen, and others have worked with the government to protect Blanchard Mountain. If Blanchard Mountain is to be protected further, it will take hope, time and a willingness to work with others.
Landers: Deer recommendation based on misinformation: At a recent WA Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting, Spokane hunter and NE WA Forestry Coalition board member Derrick Knowles delivers some fact: proposed wilderness protection in the Columbia Highlands closes no roads. The coalition’s board is comprised of some of Stevens County’s major employers as well as conservation groups, a partnership that has endured since 2003.
The great wolf debate comes to Yakima: The Yakima Herald's Scott Sandsberry looks at the controversy surrounding the Wolf Management Plan in preparation for the upcoming forum in Yakima to discuss the plan.
Enviro groups urge Senate to abandon delisting rider: A dozen environmental groups, including Conservation Northwest, today sent a letter to the Senate urging lawmakers to abandon plans to remove Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves, arguing that such a move would undermine the law and threaten biodiversity.
Wolf sightings on rise in Oregon Cascades: There is evidence that wolves in Oregon are extending their range to include the southern Cascades and Ochoco Mountains.
State lynx population dwindles: "Bunny CSI" and more... A wildlife biologist's update on a statewide lynx study project cooperatively underwritten by state agencies, Conservation Northwest, and others.
Wildlife photographer shares conservation goals: A radio interview from Wenatchee: Paul Bannick loves to capture vibrant images of birds, and loves to learn the stories they tell about the natural world. He also works to conserve and connect wild lands with Conservation Northwest.
Politics has no place in state wildlife and habitat programs: The Olympian editorial board urges legislative support for continued funding for Washington's important wildlife and recreation program.
Wolf management plan has many howling over state's efforts to control population: Conservation NW's Jay Kehne: "You go to these meetings and because 40 guys show up in camo and cowboy hats, you think everybody's against wolves," he said. "Well, sometimes there's the more quiet contingent that maybe is a little intimidated by those sessions and don't show up or don't speak."
Initiative forges unexpected alliance: A Capital Press article by Mathew Weaver on the Columbia Highlands Initiative.
A great state of carbon caches: U.S. federal forests store 9.8 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide on 19 million acres. With about 5.8 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide being released yearly by fossil fuels some see this storing ability as yet another reason to refrain from cutting the forests.
Simply killing wildife is not a solution: Our wildlife populations must include predators in order to keep the landscape diverse and balanced. The complete removal of one species hurts the overall health of those remaining.
Whites charged with killing up to five wolves: The Methow Valley News breaks the story: A federal grand jury has handed down a 12-count indictment against three Twisp, WA, residents accused of killing at least five endangered gray wolves, including wolves in the Lookout Pack near the North Cascades.
Charges filed in wolf poaching case: A federal grand jury has indicted a Twisp, Wash., man for illegally killing two wolves near his property and trying to ship one of the pelts to Canada. The wolves killed were from the Methow Valley’s “Lookout Pack,” which was Washington’s first documented wolf pack. The poaching case has drawn national attention.
Cattlemen want cap on number of Wash. wolves: Said Conservation Northwest's Jasmine Minbashian: "I know there are people who aren't happy with the numbers. I'm going to respect that opinion....If the numbers go below 15 breeding pairs, this plan won't have public support and it's going to fall apart. Maybe that's what some people want, but I don't think that's a good option for the state and for the overall goal of delisting and recovery."
Some panelists say population cap needed for wolves in state: From the wolf working group's panel meeting in Ellensburg: "...ecosystems are not vending machines," said Bob Tuck of Selah, a former state wildlife commissioner, "I don't need to put in my quarter -- ka-chunk -- and have a trophy elk pop out. That's not what this is all about."
North Cascades Wolves Hit Hard By Poachers; Indictments Filed: The long prison terms looming over three people indicted this week for killing wolves could send a message to poachers. But it won't bring back the first wolf pack to re-establish in Washington state. That pack of endangered wolves is now down to "remnants."
Mercy killing?: Plan would kill barred owls to save spotted owls: “There’s no clear, compelling science that points out, ‘Here are the exact problems that barred owls are creating for spotted owls and here are the answers,’” says the Seattle Audubon’s Cantrell. “We support scientific evaluation of what the (spotted and barred owl) interactions are and identifying potential solutions.”
Court: McKenna must appeal Okanogan PUD power line case: Maeyowa of People for Alternatives, Conservation & Education, said her group is watching closely. “Our hope is still that the PUD is going to come up with one of the alternatives that is more reasonable, and it can be a win-win,” she said.
Remote cameras: Eyes in the woods: Jan 1 - Motion-triggered remote cameras let scientists and others get close to wildlife without undue stress to the animals.
Where have all the salmon gone?: Stephen Hume of the Vancouver Sun reports on declining salmon population
Model tames timber fights: In a guest column, former Spokesman-Review reporter and editor Dan Hansen writes about changing times, the power of compromise, and the progress of the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition.
Feds drop appeal on lynx habitat, will revise plan: Wildlife officials drop their appeal of a ruling that blocks any further action on protecting lynx habitat. New areas open up for possible designation.
Okanagan river most endangered in province: Thanks to development and agriculture, for the second year in a row the Kettle River east of Osoyoos has been named the most endangered river in British Columbia.
Seattlest volunteer spotlight: Conservation Northwest: Volunteers Amy Tsui and Mike Webb are recognized for their outstanding work with Conservation Northwest's wildlife monitoring program.
Earth Hour: How about endangered species hour: The Christian Science Monitor on endangered species: Just as Earth Hour can pressure governments on global warming, so can consumers push politicians to protect endangered species such as bluefin tuna, several kinds of sharks, and corals, all of which were abandoned at a UN wildlife conference.
Climate: Adaptation will be key to preserving wildlife: Climate change may be altering fish and wildlife habitat throughout the country, but state wildlife officials can lessen those impacts with a host of adaptation measures -- if the federal government provides enough funding to implement them, according to a report issued by a coalition of sportsmen's groups this week.
OUTDOORS: Wolves now have a plan and future: The goal of the plan is to foster a self-sustaining population of the often vilified apex predator ... to transition from current partial federal protection to a fully state-based system as with any other abundant wildlife species, giving them a rightful place here. [On related news] The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is again nine members strong with the recent appointment of...Jay Kehne, Omak.
Bearly hanging on in the North Cascades: "Natural recolonization for the Cascades will be slow and depend on protecting the [grizzly] bears in British Columbia and maintaining habitat connections," writes Joe Scott, international conservation director at Conservation Northwest.
Keeping ranch intact a boon to whitetails: The Spokesman Review reports on a group effort to keep a Colville-area ranch intact for the benefit of the family, wildlife, and the public.
Olympic National Park to reintroduce additional fishers: Peninsula Daily News article about the third and final year of fisher reintroductions.
Judge: PUD may condemn state land: Grazing on state lands is a public use, but one not incompatible with the PUD’s transmission line, ruled Okanogan County Superior Court Judge Jack Burchard on Tuesday (May 11).
Group plans thinning, restoration around Packwood: Eric Schwartz discusses The Pinchot Partners' plan to create jobs in Lewis County while creating habitat for terrestrial and aquatic wildlife.
WA commission approves wolf management plan: Derrick Knowles, an avid hunter who works for wildlife group Conservation Northwest, participated as a member of the wolf working group and congratulated the commission on the plan. "While it isn't any one special interest group's perfect plan, it's the right plan for Washington and I applaud the Fish and Wildlife Commission for their leadership today," Knowles said in a written statement.
Olympic Peninsula wolves could be part of management plan: Future wolf populations on the Olympic Peninsula could be part of a plan to recover the species approved by a state commission.
Stressing Flexibility, Addressing Hunter, Livestock Concerns, WA FWC Approves Wolf Plan: Conservation Northwest's Jasmine Minbashian said she was "not enamored" with the final plan - her organization was one member of the Wolf Working Group - but was happy otherwise, calling it a "true compromise" and adding, "It looks like we've learned lessons from the Northern Rockies," and looked forward to helping to finding and monitoring more wolves.
Habitat, not hunting, may be the limiting factor: Jennifer Langston reports that last year was the first in which sport hunters were allowed to legally shoot the gray wolves that were first reintroduced to Montana and Idaho in the 1990s. So how did the wolves fare?
Wind farm project 'kind of in limbo' at Clallam PUD: Port Angeles--A Clallam County Public Utility District plan to join the Radar Ridge wind farm project in Pacific County is losing power as permit costs escalate. Conservation Northwest opposed this project because it was placed on a high ridge in the best coastal marbled murrelet habitat in southwestern Washington. Biologists held that many murrelets could be killed on their twice daily foraging trips from sea to forest.
Tulalips protest Stevens Pass bike trails plan: A plan for a large mountain bike park at Stevens Pass won’t be approved easily. The Tulalip Tribes and two environmental groups, including Conservation Northwest, have filed appeals against the plan, which the Forest Service approved in April 2010.
The predators' peak and life below it: Editorial by the NYT: It is now clear that biological diversity increases when top predators are present. The pyramid is healthiest when its peak is still present and when humans aren’t the only top predators around.
B.C. needs a law to protect it's endangered wildlife.: An examination of the biological richness of B.C., and why it is important to legislate in favor of wildlife.
Forest’s wild areas may get protection: "People are going to look back and thank us that we had the foresight to protect places for traditional activities and wildlife as our region continues to grow," said Derrick Knowles, director of Conservation Northwest’s Columbia Highlands campaign.
A wild week in Washington: Recent grizzly bear and wolf discoveries put the wild back into Washington.
Judge Orders Yellowstone Grizzlies Back on Endangered List: The Washington Post reports that a federal judge in Montana has ordered that 600 grizzly bears near Yellowstone National Park be placed back on the endangered species list.
Volunteer wildlife cams open experts eyes [Video]: King 5's Gary Chittim talks to Conservation Northwest's Jen Watkins about the Cascades Citizens Wildlife Monitoring Project.
Poll shows support for wilderness in Colville National Forest: A recent poll of northeastern Washington voters shows support for new wilderness designations on the Colville National Forest when they’re packaged with stepped-up timber harvests in other areas of the forest and new trails for off-road vehicles. In this poll, even though support from ORV riders was less than that from hunters, hikers, and others, as a whole ORV riders still supported wilderness as part of a balanced proposal. Currently, just 1% of the state's wilderness is in the Columbia Highlands.
State wants deer protection: Highway underpasses proposed at a wildlife bottleneck in the Okanogan will help deer and people, reports the Wenatchee World. Conservation NW's Jay Kehne says the project could pay for itself in 3-4 years.
Fish, Wildlife Commission appointments draw ire, fire from mid-state legislators: "I'm a life long hunter and I know what worries hunters have about wolves returning to our state, I talk with them everyday," Jay Kehne said. "I may not be anti-wolf like some people in Okanogan County, but then again, there are a lot of people all over Eastern Washington who have mixed views of whether wolves are good or bad."
Gray wolf pack is state’s second: The Spokesman Review's Becky Kramer reports on the second pack of wolves now confirmed in Washington state, as biologists elicit wolf calls from adults and pups.
Wolverines might be making a comeback: “With the camera techniques, we know there are three or four times more wolverines than have been detected by trapping alone. There are a lot more wolverines than we thought,” [wildlife biologist Keith] Aubrey said, but still fewer than 25 in the North Cascades.
Letter to the editor: Support wolf recovery: Barrett Lindsey of Spokane attended the recent Fish and Wildlife hearing to express his support of Washington's wolf plan.
Federal wildlife service will decide if 26 Pacific Northwest snails and slugs deserve endangered species designation: The creatures may not look appealing, but they are important to the forests and streams of the Pacific Northwest, said Tierra Curry, a conservation biologist with the Center for Biological Diversity. "They're part of the food web, they're important for nutrient cycling, they eat decaying matter and they're unique to the Pacific Northwest -- they're not found anywhere else," she said.
Environmental group sues to protect pygmy rabbit: An environmental group is suing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over its decision that the tiny pygmy rabbit does not warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act.
Research suggests Pacific Northwest forests might not be as healthy as they look: The researchers particularly question logging in old-growth forests and salvage logging after fires or storms. They called for more attention to natural processes and restoration of the broad range of forest structures needed to maintain the original ecosystem.
Fish and Wildlife appointee draws fire: The job of a Fish and Wildlife commissioner is to look at the best science possible and make a good decision for wildlife, Jay Kehne said. Politics and one's place of employment should not be involved. "Everybody works for somebody," Kehne said. "I've got degrees in wildlife biology and soil science and have had jobs for 31 years across Eastern Washington and California." [This AP story was widely published in Washington media]
Planning for wolf recovery- zero is not an option: The Methow Valley News discusses the Wolf Conservation and Management plan and informs people of the importance of attending a public meetings on the issue.
The Wolf Plan: Control and Compensation: The Methow Valley News looks at the alternatives offered in the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan and the compensation and control measures each alternative would allow.
Washington's Skokomish Watershed: Exemplar of the Legacy Roads and Trails Initiative: The Skokomish is both a fascinating case study of successful collaborative watershed restoration project and a politically crucial testing ground for large-scale road decommissioning in the national forests.
Living among predators: Experts and locals advise what you should do during rare encounters with big wildlife.
Wolf letter to the editor: A letter to the editor of the Chewelah Independent expressing support for wolves in Washington and the wolf recovery plan.
Letter to the editor: Management plan must address rancher issues: "The return of this native species will have many ecological benefits for the state." An Olympia resident writes supporting the pending wolf plan and addressing complaints ranchers have about wolves.
Magistrate recommends vacating Ore. logging plan: Very large old trees and wildlife protected in Oregon with the downfall of WOPR, a Bush-era plan which would have doubled old growth logging on some public lands. "The judge confirmed what everyone's been saying for years — that BLM took an illegal shortcut to avoid scientific scrutiny," said Kristen Boyles of Earthjustice.
Funding sought for farm preservation: Conservation Northwest has submitted an application to the Forest Legacy Program on behalf of Ferry County ranchers Bryan and Debra Gotham.
'It’s a girl!' Biologists snare first female lynx: K.C. Mehaffey of the Wenatchee World reports on the first female lynx trapped by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists, as part of an ongoing study of the state’s largest population of the elusive cats in Okanogan County.
Wolf packs are natural: A letter to the editor describing the ecological benefits and beauty of gray wolves.
Plea agreements possible in Whites' case: A trial date in the state's wildlife violations case against Twisp residents was continued to Feb. 13 following a status hearing in Okanogan County District Court. The Whites also face trial in January in a federal case, which charges the Whites with shooting at least two endangered gray wolves.
Wolverine protection a matter of priorities: The Yakima Herald - According to one recent study, said Dave Werntz, science and conservation director of Conservation Northwest, "If things stay the same, wolverines will lose up to 60 percent of their habitat by the end of the century. That would be a challenge for any species." Federal wildlife officials believe the species deserves protection under the Endangered Species Act, but with this caveat: Wolverines are going to have to get in line.
Wolverines making comeback in Washington state? [Video]: Dec. 15- King 5 news brings us great video of wolverines in the North Cascades, where this endangered weasel tenaciously makes a home.
Wash. offers payments for wolf kills of livestock: An Associated Press article covering the compensation plan for livestock killed by wolves which is outlined in the Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife's environmental impact statement.
New plan to enhance recreation and education opportunities to Ross Lake National Recreation Area: "This final plan is the culmination of five years of planning and work with people that love the North Cascades," said North Cascades National Park Complex Superintendent Chip Jenkins in a news release.
Wolf management plan OKed, but critics remain: “Public lands are generally places where you have the best wildlife habitat and should be places where wildlife is allowed to thrive,” said Jasmine Minbashian, special projects director at Conservation Northwest. However, she added, allowing lethal control of wolves on public land “gives livestock owners another tool … and may increase social tolerance of wolves over the long run.”
Omak man named to Fish and Wildlife Commission: Jay Kehne, an Omak hunter and conservationist, was appointed to fill a vacant seat on the state Fish and Wildlife Commission. “I’m excited,” said Kehne, who also serves as Okanogan County outreach associate for Conservation Northwest . “I’ve met several of the commission members, and for the most part, I think they do a good job.”
Controversial wolf plan approved: The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission was united last Saturday [Dec. 3] in its approval of a controversial management and recovery plan for wolves in Washington.
Taking aim at wolf recovery Okanogan County commissioners: Joel Connelly reports on a resolution calling for removal of all Washington wolves from state endangered species protections. Mitch Friedman, of Conservation Northwest, finds it curious that Okanogan County Commissioners would be taking aim at wolves — and not at the alleged human beings who killed the animals cold blood.
Wolf management plan review focus of special commission meeting Stevens County home to newest wolf pack in state: On Thurs Aug 4 the state Fish and Wildlife Commission will discuss a proposed wolf management plan during a special meeting.
Are grizzly bears back in Washington?: Biologist Scott Fitkin is interviewed on King 5 news about the recent confirmed grizzly bear sighting in the Cascades. Conservation Northwest works to protect grizzly bears in the North Cascades and beyond.
Future of national forests at center of debate: The future of the forests that Conservation Northwest works to protect is up for federal debate.
Nakusp council hears VWS caribou park presentation: The mountain caribou, their habitat, and the connectivity that Conservation Northwest tries to sustain is to be heard by the local Nakusp Village Council in BC, Canada.
Teanaway wolf pack is fourth in the state, WDFW says: Conservation Northwest ED Mitch Friedman is quoted in response to the Teanaway wolf pack discovery: “It’s inspirational. It was definitely good news that after the tragedy of poaching of the Lookout Pack that there are still wolves in the Cascades."
Kill order for two grey wolves halted: In October, the hunt for the alpha and young male wolves of the Imnaha pack in northeast Oregon was temporarily halted.
Proposed Methow Valley powerline sparks controversy: "Commissioner Goldmark is attempting to defend the state's trust lands from harmful and poorly conceived development," Dave Werntz explained. Werntz is the science and conservation director at Conservation Northwest. "We're pleased that the commissioner will have his day in court."
Shanker's Bend dam proposal draws opposition: Sheila Corson of The Chronicle looks at the proposed projects and the controversy surrounding the building of another hydroelectric dam on the Similkameen River outside of Oroville.
Burke Museum goes to the birds for new photo exhibit: Joel Connelly on Paul Bannick's The Owl and the Woodpecker traveling exhibit showing at the Burke Museum through Aug 7. The message, "that we need habitat for both great mammals and small birds . . . that their preservation does not require great sacrifice by humankind, only a modest use of intelligence."
Paul Bannick's photos at the Burke salute beauty, importance of owls and woodpeckers: Photo exhibit through Aug 7: As you'll learn in this remarkable exhibition, owls and woodpeckers perform yeoman service in maintaining biological diversity, and they are especially important indicators of habitat health.
Editorial: A wolf plan, for now: Setting aside the questions of how many wolves, if any, should be allowed to roam Washington and how [Washington's wolf] plan will be managed as a practical matter, perhaps a more important long-term result is that the state is establishing its authority over the issue – rather than letting the federal government make all the decisions.
Larry Carpenter, Sportfishing Advocate, Named To WA FWC: After nearly a year with only seven of its seats filled, the Washington Fish & Wildlife Commission is back up to full strength.
Wolves sighted near Malo: "It doesn't surprise anyone there are wolves in the Curlew area," [Department of Fish and Wildlife's Madonna Luers] said. "But confirming a pack or a breeding pair is another matter."
Loggers and tree huggers united: feds rewarding cooperation in U.S. national forests: The federal government is relying more and more on the help of non-profit groups... groups such as Conservation Northwest, which is based in Bellingham. Its executive director Mitch Friedman says they’ve formed a coalition of forestry people, carrying out the same goals as the work that's funded with matching money from the feds.
Cattleman's association denounces wolf killing: Decrying the recent wolf killing in Wallowa County, the chairman of the Oregon Cattleman's Association's wolf committee, Ron Childers, speaks out for wolves.
Third wolf poaching was near Rainy Pass: Mar 2 - The investigation of the last year's wolf killing near Rainy Pass continues, with suspects identified. The dead wolf was discovered by state wildlife enforcement officials from a tip about the poaching incident.
Environmentalists Seek to Intervene in Lynx Suit: The Associated Press reports on intervention by Conservation Northwest and others against a suit brought by snowmobile lobby seeking to stop critical habitat for Canada lynx. “We’re lucky that Washington is home to these magnificent and rare cats,” said Joe Scott of Conservation Northwest.
Gray wolves relisted as endangered in Great Lakes
Conservation groups seek to intervene in lynx case: Wenatchee World reporter K.C. Mehaffey covers the news of conservation groups, including Conservation Northwest, filing papers in U.S. District Court in Wyoming on Monday to defend designated critical habitat for Canada lynx being challenged by snowmobile groups. "Washington's habitat — which includes parts of the Loomis State Forest and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest — must be protected for the survival and recovery of lynx," says our international conservation director Joe Scott.
Bear experts confirm North Cascades bear was grizzly: “We welcome this confirmation that grizzly bears still roam the North Cascades,” said Joe Scott, Conservation Northwest’s director of international conservation. “But it doesn’t change the fact that their foothold in these mountains is as tenuous as that of a climber on crumbling rock.... It will not recover without pro-active strategies to boost the population....”
Grizzly photographed in North Cascades: “It’s a relief after years of waiting...” said Mitch Friedman of Conservation Northwest, which has championed grizzly and wolf recovery.
Debate over wolves unfolds in Pacific Northwest: There's plenty of room for wolves. The issue is: are humans going to let them come back to the landscape?" said Jasmine Minbashian, who manages the wolf program for Conservation Northwest. This AP story was picked up by outlets around the country including, Seattle & Olympia (WA), San Jose & Lompoc (CA), Austin, Kansas City, Philadelphia, St. Louis.
State's fourth wolf pack identified in Teanaway area: "Because of these types of stories," said Mitchell Friedman, Conservation Northwest's executive director, "it was clear the Teanaway was something to check out." Bellingham-based Conservation Northwest had been reading anecdotal reports of wolves in the Teanaway on hunters' blog-sites for at least two years.
Rare grizzly confirmed in North Cascades: This is the first report vertified by photographic evidence of a grizzly bear in the North Cascades ecosystem since 1996, according to Joe Scott, a conservation director for Conservation Northwest in Bellingham.
Cle Elum wolf pack sighting: Two recent letters to the editor, "Act will benefit many" and "Time to fight for protection"
First confirmed grizzly sighting in 15 years in North Cascades National Park: “Grizzly bears are considered an umbrella species, since they are wilderness-loving animals with large home ranges and need lots of roadless wild areas to thrive. A number of other animals as well need those kinds of security,” Joe Scott of Conservation Northwest said.
The Case of the Disappearing Rabbit: This Newsweek article by Lily Huang discusses the importance of the showshoe hare to the ecosystem in the backcountry of northwestern Montana.
Endangered-species lists may be broadened: Bruce Finley from the Denver Post discusses the Obama Administration's move to reevaluate species across the nation for endangered or threatened species status.
Proponent of wolves tell Port Angeles area chamber animals would help ecosystem, local economy: David Graves, [National Parks Conservation Association's] northwest program manager, said the loss of the predator has lead to higher bank erosion along the Hoh River due to overfeeding by elk populations.
Migrating wolf enters southwest Oregon: A young wolf migrating out of a northeast Oregon pack this fall has reached northeastern Douglas County, becoming the first confirmed wolf in Western Oregon in 65 years.
Connelly: Has twilight come for America's wolves?: Joel Connelly of the Seattle P-I laments the recent removal of wolves from federal protection and the misconceived fear that has long followed these animals and Conservation NW's Jasmine Minbashian is quoted on poaching of the Lookout pack.
Letter to the editor: Wilderness the greatest hurdle with CHI: Adoption of a Columbia Highlands Initiative is in the best interest of everyone, urges the letter writer to the Colville Statesman-Examiner: Rep. McMorris Rogers needs to take leadership and get the negotiating process back on track.
Biologists confirm a fifth wolf pack in Washington: For the second time in a month, a new gray wolf pack, the Smackout pack, has been found living in Washington, this one in the state's northeast corner. Fish and Wildlife is putting the finishing touches on a plan to manage the state's wolf populations.
Area wolf poaching case to trial in September: The family accused of poaching wolves and smuggling their hides will have their federal trial in September.
In brief: Wolf pack confirmed in Stevens County: Letter to the editor about Washington's fifth wolf pack, the Smackout pack in Stevens County.
Wooden Nickels: As Weyerhaeuser mulls a transformation in its corporate structure, the future of the state’s timberlands—as forests and as investments—is at stake.
Washington Wraps Up Wolf Management Plan Hearings: KPLU summarizes some of the controversy over how many breeding pairs of wolves should be required before they are no longer considered endangered.
Washington works on new wolf plan: Though the wolf is no longer protected as an endangered species in Washington, the state presses forward for a new plan.
Scientists push for national park reserve in the south Okanagan: May 26 - Scientists begin a study of the southern Okanogan for a possible national park.
Lawmakers sniff out a solution for cougar hunting: But biologists are questioning a pair of bills that would make permanent Washington state’s pilot program on using hounds to hunt cougars. Two-thirds of citizens responding to a WDFW survey were against the use of hounds in recreational hunting of cougars.
Report: Killing predators considered to help owls: Wildlife officials on the precipice of a decision to kill barred owls to help protect a dwindling spotted owl population.
Advocates seek stop to Idaho, Montana wolf hunts: Wildlife advocates appeared in federal court seeking to stop gray wolf hunts that are already well under way in the Northern Rockies, arguing that Congress overstepped its authority in stripping federal protections from the canines.
As the climate changes: The forests of the future: Oregon State University has released a new study that says climate change, insect attacks, diseases and fire are causing huge migration of trees across the West.
'Living with Wolves' set for tonight at YVCC: "You’re much more likely to be attacked by a cougar than wolves," Jay Kehne says. "I’ve never had a fear of wolves, in any of the times I've been out there. Maybe it's because I know enough about wolves, their habits, their hunting habits. Most of the stories (about wolves) you see on hunters’ websites are just crazy talk."
Kent Molgat on the snake population: Environmental groups want BC to enact legislation to protect the 1,900 species at risk in this province. It's the kind of law that's already in place in all other parts of the country except Alberta.
Letter to the editor: Wolves not a threat to healthy humans: One afternoon three or four [wolves] appeared in the brush beside me, then followed me closely for a few miles. I remember them as sleek and beautiful. I also remember that I was scared half to death. But I needn’t have been. As my dad had told me, and repeated that evening, wolves won’t hurt you unless you are down and injured.
Wolf foes outnumber friends at Fish and Wildlife hearing in Wenatchee: The Wenatchee World's Rachel Schleif reports on the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan meeting in Wenatchee.
Feds drop appeal on lynx habitat, will revise plan: Wildlife officials have agreed to protect critical habitat for Canada lynx by mending an earlier, flawed proposal. There are likely fewer than 1,000 lynx across the lower 48 states, with 100 to 200 animals in Washington, including in the Loomis State Forest.
Little left to celebrate at B.C. Forest Service: The public is beginning to wonder if British Columbia's Forest Service will make it to its centennial year due to the job cuts throughout the past couple years. These cuts will effect more than just the employees. The thin spreading of still remaining employees will cause less time for fieldwork, essential in protecting the public interest.
Pygmy rabbits breeding in Columbia Basin: For the first time in a decade, the endangered Columbia Basin pygmy rabbit appears to have successfully bred in its historic range.
As A Federal Agent, Carter Niemeyer Killed Wolves For A Living: Says Niemeyer: "I think what's going on is a clash of cultures. The truth as I see it is that livestock losses attributed today to wolves and other predators are being exaggerated because of this clash."
Conflict Over Northern Rockies Delisting for Wolves Extends to Pacific Northwest: The New York Times reports on the heating up of wolf issues in the Pacific Northwest as Washington and Oregon strive to manage small but growing packs.
Agreement requires surveys for listed plants and animals when federal agencies plan old-growth timber sales: A federal judge has signed off on an agreement between conservation groups - including Conservation Northwest - and federal forest agencies that requires surveys for rare and even obscure species when planning timber sales in old growth forests.
Finding should be celebrated: A letter to the editor: "I couldn’t be happier to hear about the Teanaway wolf pack, and the presence of a lactating female."
A long road for recovery of Washington's grizzlies and wolves: Written by Paula McKay, special to The Times, of the Western Transportation Institute. WTI, alongside Conservation Northwest, participates in the Citizen Wildlife Monitoring project and is likewise one of the members of the Washington Wildlife Habitat Connectivity Working Group.
Discoveries encouraging: Letter to the editor of the Seattle Times regarding wolves and grizzlies in Washington State.
Experimental Washington state grazing program put on hold: Whiskey Dick in eastern Washington is one of the state wildlife lands where a controversial cattle-grazing program has been put on hold for the 2010 season after a sharp rebuke by a Superior Court judge.
Stevens Pass bike trail wins approval: The Everett Herald reports on a wildlife corridor at Stevens pass, "The Highway 2 corridor is important to both people and wildlife, and this process did not take a holistic approach in providing the public a chance to engage in a discussion of the full plans for the Stevens Pass Resort that are tied to this first phase," said Jen Watkins of Conservation Northwest.
USFS scans backwoods for grizzlies: WENATCHEE — Scientists this summer will launch the first large-scale effort to find evidence of grizzly bears in the North Cascades, setting out 75 to 100 hair snags and a few dozen remote cameras.
Forest peace plan has promise: Serena Carlson writes a thank you for the publication of Dan Hansen's op-ed on the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition.
Can a shaky conservation plan protect Washington's wolves?: The latest on the Washington state wolf plan: While Conservation Northwest's Derrick Knowles thinks that elk hunters' fears are based largely on fantasy, he says that ranchers have "some legitimate concerns," although experience in the Rockies suggests that "wolves take out way fewer livestock than domestic dogs."
Dramatic rumors stoke wolf fears: Myth-busting on wolves: People are talking about wolves since they returned to our county a couple of years ago. If you believe everything that is being said about wolves at public meetings, coffee shops and on the Internet, you may not be getting the whole story...
Republicans push to oust newly appointed Wildlife Commissioner: Kehne said he sees no conflict in working for Conservation Northwest and serving on the Wildlife Commission, and said that he’ll join the commission for his first meeting this week. “I’ve lived in Eastern Washington most of my life, and recognize rural county values,” he said.
Survey finds 3 pairs of breeding wolves: A year-end survey of the state’s five confirmed wolf packs has found 3 successful breeding pairs totaling at least 27 wolves. The survey also found evidence of unconfirmed packs in the Blue Mountains of southeastern Washington and at Hozomeen in the North Cascades, as well as transient single wolves, according to Rocky Beach, the agency’s wildlife diversity program manager.
Wolves and grizzlies: two rare creatures are making a comeback in the Cascades: “All these pieces have come together to form one of the largest, most protected areas in the country. It’s a very successful story that’s been authored by hundreds of people, from governments, to conservation groups, to individuals, to private groups," said Conservation Northwest's Joe Scott.
Signs of wolf pack found in Pend Oreille County
More fishers released in bid to reintroduce species to Washington state: 16 Fishers are released into the Olympic National Park bringing the total number of fishers relocated there to 65.
New Forest Plan Amendment Sets Grizzly Bear Habitat Standards: After nearly fifteen years of debating the science of Grizzly Bear habitat, Northern Rockies Forests have finally set up a new amendment that sets the standards for forest planning. Map included!
U.S. seeks to protect old-growth forests to save caribou: Under the plan, roughly 375,000 acres of mostly U.S. Forest Service land in the Selkirk Mountains...would be designated as critical habitat for the reclusive [mountain] caribou.
Fired up about fuel reduction: How landowners, conservation organizations, and local, state and federal partners are making a difference in the Chumstick Watershed
Twisp family denies killing gray wolves: Twisp family members accused of illegally killing endangered wolves from the Methow Valley’s Lookout Pack and attempting to smuggle one of the pelts to Canada can continue to have guns and hunt while their case is pending, a judge ruled Wednesday.
Rare grizzly bear photographed in North Cascades: "The federal agencies 20 years ago determined that the habitat was exceptional and could support a stable population of bears," said Mitch Friedman, with Conservation Northwest. "But as the years passed without photos, I came to wonder if North Cascades grizzlies were like vampires and wouldn't show up in photos. I'm relieved to know the bears are there."
Hiker snaps rare bear - a North Cascades grizzly: "We've talked about this for 20 years, and over time the sightings have gotten fewer and fewer to the point where I worried the bears had blinked out altogether on our watch," Mitch Friedman of Conservation Northwest said. "So I'm incredibly relieved. But this is a clarion call on the federal government to fulfill its obligation to recover the species." [Article appeared front page, July 2, Seattle Times]
New wolf pack confirmed — a short drive from Seattle: "Wolves need abundant food and lots of security, and the Teanaway has both," said Mitch Friedman, with Conservation Northwest, which helped confirm the pack's existence. The new wolf group, dubbed the Teanaway Pack, is the fourth wolf pack in Washington. Article appeared as "Wolf pack found near Cle Elum" on front page of July 6, Seattle Times.
A new wolf pack in Washington: "The wolf’s return to the Cascades is an important milestone for restoring the wildlife heritage of these wild mountains: Wolves play an important role in maintaining a balance of predator and prey that has a trickle down benefit for all shorts of wildlife from eagles to bears," said Mitch Friedman of Conservation Northwest.
I-90 project to ease flow of traffic, wildlife east of Snoqualmie Pass: "This underpass is going to facilitate movement for everything from bull trout in Gold Creek, to mountain goats, and maybe we'll be recovering wolverines," said Jen Watkins, outreach coordinator for the I-90 Wildlife Bridges Coalition.
Call of the wild: wolves and grizzlies in Washington state: Editorial from The Times: A new gray wolf pack and a rare grizzly bear, oh my. State biologists said this week that a new pack of gray wolves is living in our state in Kittitas County...
Editorial: County must calculate benefit, cost of trade off: March 16-Conservation Northwest is one of nine groups supporting a collaborative agreement for water storage, forests and habitat in the YakimaBasin's TeanawayValley. The price tag, $5 billion, comes off as a bargain compared to the $7.7 billion estimated price tag for the alternative: the Black Rock reservoir proposed east of Yakima, which lost favor as a solution to water storage problems due to its cost.
Supreme Court orders AG to represent Goldmark: “As Commissioner of Public Lands, I have an obligation to manage the state’s trust lands sustainably for future generations, and I will continue to fight for what I know is right,” Goldmark said. The environmental group Conservation Northwest had already filed an appeal in the condemnation lawsuit.
Wolves in the Methow: a predator/prey relationship: Opinion by Gary Ott from Beaver Creek, Washington. Studies of wolf predation on deer in other states indicate that wolves each take approximately 15 or 16 deer per year, a level of predation nearly the number that we take out with our cars and not even close to the numbers taken by hunters.
2011: Speedy pronghorns reintroduced into Washington: Pronghorns reasserted themselves as the fastest land mammals in Washington in January, thanks to a sportsmen’s group that joined with the Yakama Nation for an end run around state bureaucracy and environmental red tape.
Editorial: Bid to solve cougar hunt conundrum impressive: An editorial in the Spokesman Review commending Rep. Joel Kretz and Conservation Northwest for finding common ground on cougar management.
Hair rub technique appears to yield cheaper, more accurate data on grizzlies: How hair snag stations are used to collect genetic and population information on grizzly bears in the wild.
Wolf's entry into Calif. major environmental step: "Whether one is for it or against it, the entry of this lone wolf into California is an historic event and the result of much work by the wildlife agencies in the West," said Charlton H. Bonham, director of the California Department of Fish and Game.
Proposed critical habitat for Selkirk Mountain caribou: The United States Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing that 375,562 acres be designated as critical habitat for southern Selkirk Mountain caribou.... It is estimated that there are about 46 caribou in the area, according to USFWS.... Human activities such as road-building and recreational trails can also fragment caribou habitat and facilitate movement of predators into the caribou’s range.
KUOW's Weekday discusses wolf plan with Jasmine: Jasmine Minbashian, special projects director at Conservation Northwest, talks to Weekday's Steve Scher about a huge success, the passing of Washington's wolf plan and what comes next.
Big hearing on Washington State wolf plan Nov. 3 in Spokane: The Washington plan calls for more than 15 breeding pairs ... and a wolf distribution requirement. Five breeding pairs would be required in Eastern Washington, four in the North Cascades and six in the South Cascades or Northwest Coast. This is innovative and should reduce the claim by some that "our area has to bear the entire burden of having the wolves."
Panel considers wolf plan: The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission deliberated on a wolf management plan with dual goals of re-establishing wolves across the state while building public support for the top-line predators.
Wolf Controversy in Spokane: "Wolves provide an important balance in the ecosystem because they control other predators that can cause problems," Tim Coleman, who attended the Fish and Wildlife Commission hearing in Spokane yesterday, said.
Wolf pelt investigation leads to unrelated charges: K.C. Mehaffey reports on a Twisp rancher and his son, who have been charged with hunting violations unrelated to the investigation in their homes last year regarding a bloody wolf pelt.
Nature's 'Greatest Comebacks': Eagles, grizzlies lead the way: The list includes the gray wolf and the gray whale. One is a controversial predator that is repopulating the Cascades and the Selkirk Mountains of northeast Washington. Last year... a grizzly was photographed on a ridge in the North Cascades National Park.
Wolf team gets earful at Okanogan forum: Methow Valley News reporter Joyce Campbell covered the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan meeting in Okanogan where over 100 people came to share their opinions.
Room for wildlife in state budget? Advocates push to continue I-90 project: Jan 5, 2011 - In a new year for Cascades wildlife, the Seattle Times spotlights wildlife bridges and the I-90 Project. Surely for animals, moving ahead on the project would be a good thing, said Charlie Raines of the Cascade Chapter of the Sierra Club.
Few Fear the Big, Bad Wolf: The majority of people in attendance at the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan meeting in Sequim spoke out in favor of having wolves on the Olympic Peninsula as covered in the Sequim Gazette.
Judge agrees to halt Lewis-McChord cross-base highway suit: A lawsuit filed by Conservation Northwest and allies against the Cross-Base Highway (proposed across rare oak-woodland prairie) is halted as parties come to an agreement.
Northeast WA Gets Big Grant for Forest Restoration: Getting the news was a big relief, says Mitch Friedman... because the competition for this funding is tough. "Together over the last eight years, our group has fostered more than two dozen successful, on-the-ground, quality forest restoration projects. That's what put us in good position to compete for this million-dollar grant."
Okanogan County takes aim at environmentalist over wolf protection: Conservation Northwest have been noted — and severely criticized — for their efforts to work with ranchers and loggers, to make everybody a winner, to compromise.
Colville travel plan appealed by 3 regional conservation groups: Getting no satisfaction from a letter of concern to the forest supervisor, three Washington-based conservation groups have appealed a Colville National Forest travel plan designating where ATVs, motorcycles and other off-highway vehicles can go at the south end of the 1.1 million acre forest.
Stevens Pass bike park clears final hurdle: With Forest Service permit appeals resolved, ski area officials plan to build facility next spring
B.C. needs endangered species legislation: Feb 15 - A conservation biologist tells all: "Super, natural British Columbia is awesome, with more than 4,373 known forms of life. Currently, B.C. is without endangered species legislation and 1,900 species are at risk from local extinction or extirpation. This is unacceptable... "
Public’s input on wildlife needed: A reporter calls upon hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts to comment on and help improve a new draft national forest management rule.
Coming to Terms with Bears: A conversation with Chris Morgan: Reporter Liam Moriarty of KPLU sits down with conservation scientist Chris Morgan to chat about North Cascades bears and his new book and documentary, Bears of the Last Frontier.
Feds say they will review gray wolf status in NW: The Tri-City Herald reports on an upcoming wolf status review following delisting of some Northwest wolves. Since 2008, the Lookout Pack has fallen from as many as 10 animals to 2, said Jasmine Minbashian of Conservation Northwest, who have helped document the wolves' return to the Cascades.
Wash. bear researcher: 'I've got huge respect for these animals': An interview with Chris Morgan about his documentary Bears of the Last Frontier: "My mantra is, 'What's good for bears is good for people' - and it's so true. We all need clean air, fresh water, natural resources - we all need it, whether you watch from your armchair or hike in it every weekend."
On the trail of the wolf known as OR-7: A wolf that split Sept. 10 from its northeast Oregon pack and is now wandering in southwest Oregon followed a path seemingly scripted from some Jack London knock-off documentary about how the first wolf in Western Oregon in 65 years might have gotten here.
Bears of the Last Frontier: A Q&A with Bear Biologist Chris Morgan: Inside Thirteen with Chris Morgan of the Grizzly Bear Outreach Project as he reveals some of the secrets behind his new documentary.
Bears Of The Last Frontier: Grizzly, Polar And Black Bears In The World Landscape: #bearmonth Bear ecologist Chris Morgan & acclaimed radio journalist Steve Scher get into the subject of North Cascades grizzly bears and more.
Cameras help hunters, conservationists alike: Jan 1 - Conservation Northwest also wants to know what wildlife are out there. “People get out there every year and put cameras in some pretty far-flung places. And they love it,” says Jasmine Minbashian.
A new blacklist: It looks to outsiders like a new blacklist. Are you now or have you ever sympathized with wolves or environmentalists? This overreaction and intolerance does Okanogan County's cause little good.
The Worm Snowy owls, mis-sent missives, 120 years in 120 seconds: Speaking of wildlife: Okanogan County Commissioners last week sent a letter to state Sen. Brian Hatfield expressing their opposition to the appointment of Omak’s Jay Kehne to the Fish and Wildlife Commission. Only problem is, they sent their letter to the wrong committee chair, according to Hatfield....
Eastern Oregon wolves again star in video, this time with youngsters: OregonLive.com shares a video by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife of at least 10 wolves in a forest east of Wallowa County.
Study of Tripod fire reaffirms the value of thinning forests: WINTHROP — A three-year U.S. Forest Service study confirmed what fire managers already knew: Wildfires are not nearly as deadly for trees in areas previously thinned and burned.
Forest planning rule uses collaboration to cut lawsuits: Will changes in national forest planning rules proposed by the government improve forest management and foster collaboration? Mike Petersen, The Lands Council director and member of the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition, said the new rules could weaken wildlife protections.
Letter to the editor - About that wilderness in Kettle Range: Former Chief of the Forest Service Dale Bosworth addresses concerns of cattlemen on wilderness and applauds the collaborative Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition: "Even as a strong believer in multiple use and resource extraction, I feel that wilderness is an important part of balanced management and ought to be represented in the Kettle Range."
Methow Valley ranchers indicted in wolves' deaths: "People who kill wolves are flat out poachers — people with disrespect for the law and for wildlife," said Mitch Friedman, of Conservation Northwest. "It's critical that we come down on them hard, and I'm glad to see that we are."
Twisp Family Shot 5 Wolves, Tried To Poison More, Feds Say: The editor of Northwest Sportsman covers indictments handed down in the case of illegal killing of members of the Lookout wolf pack. He quotes Mitch Friedman of Conservation Northwest: “Poachers who deliberately try to wipe out a population of endangered wildlife need to be held accountable.”
Climate change menaces the future of lynx: In-depth report on Washington's wild cat: "The lynx, like the wolverine, is highly dependent on a persistent snowpack," says Dave Werntz, science and conservation director of Conservation Northwest. Lynx' future in the Kettle Range and beyond depends on habitat connectivity to Canada and a combination of refuges and connections that will enable them to survive until the trees grow back in burned areas.
Group proposes wilderness areas: The Miner article by Janelle Atyeo covering the Columbia Highlands Initiative.
Many steps can be taken to improve Lake Whatcom: The Bellingham Herald looks at the many thing landowners in the Lake Whatcom Watershed can do to protect the water quality of the lake.
Senseless slaughter of wolves: Alberta has a policy of killing wolves to protect caribou. It’s not working. Caribou biologist Stan Boutin is adamant that wolf control alone is not going to be the salvation of caribou. Like the boreal forest ecologists who contributed to the West Central Alberta Caribou Landscape Plan, he believes that cutlines, well sites and roads that favour wolves need to be reforested. Habitat also has to be set aside and protected from development.
First time in recorded history: Wolverine tracks confirmed in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains: The tracks of a wolverine are found in the Wallowa Mountains, for the first time! The researcher followed the tracks for about a mile until they left the river bottom and headed into the high country.
Ghost Cat: This article from the Nature Conservancy Magazine looks at a historic land deal that may protect lynx habitat
Poll: Voters Give Nod to WA's Colville Forest Collaboration: A new poll shows voters support collaborative efforts between Conservation Northwest, its allies, and the timber industry.
Whatcom County moves forward with land transfer: The Bellingham Herald reports on a decision by the City Council to progress with the land transfer near Lake Whatcom.
Our backcountry bank: Snowy Mountain Alpine Tours in BC, Canada, reflects on the wonders of the North Thompson valley, including mountain caribou, and our part in preserving them.
Lookout Pack has new litter; wolves confirmed in Pend Oreille County: Joyce Campbell of the Methow Valley News reports on the latest in wolves in Washington, a new litter of pups for the Lookout Pack and a pack new to the state in Pend Oreille County.
Management plan finalized for wolf recovery in Washington: This KUOW radio news interview discusses wolf recovery in Washington state.
Colville forest lays out plan: Conservation Northwest was hoping to also include as wilderness an area known as Twin Sisters in the Kettle Crest and Thirteen Mile south of Republic. Heflick said those areas provide connectivity for wildlife and habitat for threatened species such as lynx.
Study: Forests absorb much more greenhouse gas than previously known: Worldwide, forests absorb almost 9 billion tons of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide every year, according to a new study published Thursday in the journal Science
Forests, oceans acting as huge carbon 'sink' they're sucking up half of our fossil fuel emissions: The amount of carbon added to Canada's managed forests each year was "reduced by half" over the 17-year study period, largely due to wildfires and insects such as the mountain pine beetle that destroyed huge swaths of forest.
Washington’s fifth wolf pack confirmed: The gray wolf is protected throughout Washington as a state endangered species. In the western two-thirds of Washington, the species is also federally protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), making it illegal to harm or harass them.
Press Clip Manager: For sorting press clips by publishing date
Judge allows evidence in Whites' state [poaching] case: Update on the poaching of wolves in WA's Lookout pack: Evidence obtained in a police search of a FedEx package that was leaking blood, and other evidence gathered through subsequent search warrants, will be allowed in the state’s wildlife violations case against Twisp residents William and Tom White.
Year in Review No.8: Teanaway wolf pack confirmed: The gray wolf quickly rose to alpha status in Kittitas County news this year after researchers discovered the fourth of Washington's five confirmed wolf packs in the Teanaway area. WDFW and other groups, including Bellingham-based, nonprofit wildlife advocacy group Conservation Northwest who captured the decisive images, placed motion triggered cameras around the Teanaway following several reported wolf sightings in the area last fall.
Kittitas County conservation group Forterra buys 480 acres of forestland: The Mount Amabilis property was purchased to provide critical wildlife habitat and serves as an important piece of the long-range strategy to conserve habitat lands near the planned Interstate 90 wildlife bridges that will allow wildlife to cross I-90 safely.
Lake Whatcom land exchange back on agenda at Board of Natural Resources: “It’s one of the most cost-efficient things we can do to benefit the lake,” said Mitch Friedman. A much-discussed plan to transfer state land around Lake Whatcom to Whatcom County for management as park land is back on the agenda of the state’s Board of Natural Resources on Monday, Oct. 10 in Olympia.
Wolf caught on camera in Pine Creek area: TONASKET - State wildlife officials say a wolf caught by a game camera in the Pine Creek Road area is a mystery.
In Search of the Grizzly (if Any Are Left): The New York Times documents story of the most ambitious effort ever to document whether grizzlies still exist in the North Cascades of Washington. “If these bears are to have a future,” said Joe Scott, the international program director for Conservation Northwest, “the United States and British Columbia governments must do their job — boost Cascades bears with a small number of young animals from areas where grizzly bears are more numerous.”
The case for large predators: As predators disappear, ecosystems suffer: New research adds insight to the debate over wolves and cougars in Oregon and a video helps tell the tale.
Appreciated the tapeworm info: A letter to the editor discussing why tapeworm is a scare tactic and not a reason to eradicate wolves.
Council weighs competing interests in caribou snowmobile closures: Coun. Antoinette Halberstadt urged support for the closures. “It seems to me each time the city has commented on the closures, we only focus on the short-term economic impact,” she said, adding that “long-term sustainability” was often overlooked, calling the stance “short-sighted.”
Caribou are at a crossroads: One endangered caribou herd in Alberta’s tar sands region west of Fort McMurray is at great risk of disappearing. Clear-cutting and no-holds-barred oil and gas exploration and development have affected more than 60 per cent of the habitat of the Red Earth caribou herd, leaving little undisturbed forest where it can feed, breed, and roam...
Take steps now to limit conflicts with bears: Some good springtime tips for possible bear encounters from Chris Morgan of the Grizzly Bear Outreach Project. Give bears space, make noise, and don't surprise them!
How federal budget-makers cut wolves from the endangered-species list: Reporter Daniel Jack Chasen dives into the darker side of the "historic" budget deal some weeks ago.
Rural Legislators Question WDFW’s Wolf Info, Land Plans: Sportsman reporter Andy Walgamott covers wide-ranging ground in this piece, including an interview he had with Mitch Friedman of Conservation Northwest.
Gray wolf’s not ready to come off list, two scientists say: Two of three scientists asked to review a draft plan for recovering the endangered gray wolf in Washington say the state should require higher numbers before taking them off the endangered list.
Forget Sasquatch: The elusive Cascade Grizzly: Biologists have been stalking grizzlies in the Cascades for years... A recently verified photograph has reinvigorated the research team, but the fight for funding to protect the white whale of the Cascades goes on.
Wolf killing delayed again: The Oregon Court of Appeals extended a stay on the state's planned killing of two wolves from the Imnaha pack in Eastern Oregon.
Wind project in Pacific County killed: Radar Ridge was controversial from the beginning.... The only significant patch of murrelet habitat remaining in Southwest Washington is a 13,748-acre swath of old forest on state trust land known as the Nemah block.
US appeals court upholds roadless rule in forests: A federal appeals court has upheld a rule prohibiting roads on nearly 50 million acres of land in national forests across the United States, a ruling hailed by environmentalists as one of the most significant in decades....U.S. Forest Service Chief Thomas Tidwell also applauded the decision.
Status quo on Lake Whatcom not good enough: Bellingham's daily newspaper editorial board urges citizens to speak up for creating a Lake Whatcom Forest Preserve. "...leaving the land in logging is a mistake. This land transfer is good for the community and we urge [the Whatcom County Council] to support it."
Protecting The Rainforests Of Washington And British Columbia: A radio interview with conservation scientist Dominck DellaSala on Northwest rainforests.
Colville National Forest meeting made irrelevant: Rudeness has been stifling the Colville National Forest meetings set to inform the public about proposed revisions to the forest’s management plans. The meeting at Colville two weeks ago was, as one Spokane man put it, “a freak show” of conspiracy theorists who essentially commandeered the evening with insolence... Let’s insist the Forest Service and elected officials recognize this and pay more attention to the thoughtful comment that will be trickling in.
Explore The Kettle River Range: Conservation Northwest's Derrick Knowles discusses hiking in the Kettle River Range of the Colville National Forest.
Fate of state's first gray-wolf pack unclear: Feb 27 - "We're starting to see that we already have a pretty serious poaching problem," said Jasmine Minbashian, with the environmental group Conservation Northwest. "It's just such a tragic story. A few years ago we were filled with so much hope. Now we're seeing this."
Conservationists boost rewards for bagging poachers in Washington: Turning in a poacher in Washington can be rich experience, thanks to a commitment announced by Conservation Northwest.
Would Washington legislature try to ease protection of gray wolves?: Mar 3 - Politicians in the NW have been trying for some time to free the states of the burden of obeying ESA protections for the gray wolf. Now, bills in Olympia would give the legislature a chance to play to the anti-wolf crowd.
Wrestling with wolves: A High Country News writer weighs in on anti-wolf legislation circulating through Western states, including Washington State, and in Congress.
Report calls for BC endangered-species law: Sept. 21, 2010, Global BC video coverage of a new report on BC wildlife at risk by the David Suzuki Foundation, Ecojustice, and Conservation Northwest.
BC wildlife needs more protection, study says: An inadequate patchwork of laws and policies in British Columbia puts an estimated 1,900 species of wildlife at risk of extinction according to a new study, On the Edge: BC's Unprotected Transboundary Species.
US gray wolves rebound but face uncertain future: "Wolves, next to people, are one of the most adaptable animals in the world," said Ed Bangs, a former Fish and Wildlife Service biologist who led the effort to return wolves to the northern Rockies. "The key with wolves is, it's all about human tolerance."
Can ecological corridors heal fragmented landscapes?: Scientists are taking a closer look at just how well wildlife corridors are working and what role they might play in a warming world.
Op-Ed: Forestry coalition proposes wilderness area: Lots of progress has been made since 2002 when the timber industry and the conservation community buried the hatchet and started to work together. The Columbia Highlands Initiative is testimony to the power of collaboration. In the words of Dick Slagle: ”The Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition has changed the way many of us think about the national forest here in Ferry County. We can work together to make a better future for our children and grandchildren, support good timber jobs and protect special places like the Kettle Crest.”
Got Wolves? Washington Does: There are now three successful breeding pairs and at least 27 wolves in WA. A successful breeding pair means a mom, dad and at least two pups that make it past 6 months old.... Washington last month adopted a monitoring and management plan [calling] for 15 successful breeding pairs to be established before wolves can be removed from the state endangered species list.
Sportsmen better prepare for higher license fees: Rich Landers reports on the wrapping up of the Washington Legislature, on issues from cougar hunting with hounds to hunting and fishing license fees.
Predator film to screen in Twisp: The public is invited to the screening of the new film, Lords of Nature: Life in a Land of Great Predators, in Twisp on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Twisp River Pub. Afterwards will follow a presentation and discussion with a panel of Northwest wildlife experts about the return of the gray wolf to the Methow Valley.
Scientists push for national park reserve in the south Okanagan: The scientific community urges the Canadian government to create a national park reserve in south Okanogan.
Are there grizzly bears in Washington state?: A piece by Joel Connelly from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer that discusses the current status of grizzly bears in Washington and why they are important.
Frogs return to the wild of Fort Lewis: An article in the News Tribune reports on 70 endangered frogs that were released near Dailman Lake on Fort Lewis.
Environmentalists, loggers push new wilderness deal in Northeast Washington: A Seattle Times news story by Craig Welch on the Columbia Highlands Initiative
Proposal for Colville National Forest a collaborative effort: Spokesman Review article on Columbia Highlands by Becky Kramer
Wilderness being sought by coalition: Spokane Public Radio radio story by Steve Jackson on Columbia Highlands press conference in Spokane (aired on KUOW as well)
We're losing the battle for diversity of life: British Columbia has no law protecting species at risk of extinction, and the laws we do have aren't working.
Wilderness, logging proposal pushed: Seattle Times local section story by Jill Kimball on Columbia Highlands
Wash. alliance aims to aid economy and environment: Associated Press story by Nicholas Geranios on Columbia Highlands Initiative
Conservation Area Planned for Blanchard Mountain: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is working to create a conservation area around Blanchard Mountain.
Delisting of wolves will not affect Methow pack: Ann McCreary reports on the status of Washington's wolves following delisting of Northern Rockies wolves. “Congress has never taken a specific action on any listed species… not even the spotted owl,” said Friedman. “That’s where this is unprecedented and dangerous.”
Whatcom County Council considers watershed land-transfer deal: Jared Paben of the Bellingham Herald reports on the status of the land transfer near Lake Whatcom and the effects the recent County Council elections could have on the transfer.
Partnership draws on ranching, timber, and conservation interests: Statesman-Examiner article on the Columbia Highlands Initiative.
Do Wolves Kill for Sport?: No, but they do sometimes kill more than they can eat. Slate, an online magazine, looks at why wolves are sometimes connected with large kills.
The case of the disappearing rabbit: Lily Huang of Newsweek reports in excellent detail on climate change and lynx. Canada lynx rely on snowshoe hares for nearly their entire diet. And the hare is being lost to climate change. As the hare goes, so goes the lynx....
Judge upholds surveys for species before logging: A federal judge in Seattle ruled that forests be examined for ecologically important species like snails, mosses and mushrooms before logging can occur.
Interior Department's decision imperils wolves, Endangered Species Act: Jamie Rappaport Clark of the Washington Post criticizes the decision to remove federal protection for the gray wolves in the Northern Rockies.
Feds start review of Northwest gray wolves: From the Methow Valley News: "We welcome a robust scientific review of wolves in the Pacific Northwest as long as it’s done well with scientific integrity and not done with D.C. politics," said Jasmine Minbashian of Conservation Northwest, which that has been involved in documenting the return of wolves to the Cascade Mountains. "We hope that the review will bring attention to rampant poaching - one of the biggest obstacles to recovery of our wolves."
18 hours bags Kettle Crest Trail: Four friends from Spokane hike the Kettle Crest Trail in a day, through roadless areas that could be protected as wilderness.
Animal trackers read dramas in the snow: Nov 17, 2010, wildlife tracking in the Northwest woods. "The snow creates a blank slate and these animals come and write their stories onto it," said Dave Moskowitz, author of the recently published tracking field guide, Wildlife of the Pacific Northwest.
350 species face devastation without quick climate action, conservationist group says: The Oregonian's Abby Haight discusses some of the species at risk from the increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
At loggerheads over logging: The Cascadia Weekly reports on the latest in protecting the forests and wildlife habitat of Blanchard Mountain in the Chuckanuts, where the Cascades meet the sea. A judge rules that a collaborative strategies agreement put together by the state DNR is proper and should stand.
Five-state wolf plan panelists divided: Rich Landers of the Spokesman-Review reports on the different tactics of five western states, including Washington, all working to deal with the return of gray wolves. The Department of Fish and Wildlife is close to finishing a management and conservation plan for managing wolves returning naturally to the Washington State.
Obama administration extends time-out on roadless decisions: The New York Times reports that Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has renewed for another year a policy giving himself sole power to approve logging or road projects on tens of millions of forested acres while the Obama administration decides how to handle the controversial Clinton-era roadless rule.
After Years of Conflict, a New Dynamic in Wolf Country: So a handful [of conservation orgs] began reaching out to ranchers, offering them money and tools to fend off wolves without killing them. And some ranchers, mindful that tough federal restrictions could be reimposed if wolf numbers dwindle again, have been listening.
Q&A: Wolves Off The Endangered List In Eastern Oregon And Washington: Oregon Public Broadcasting: "...a listing decision would stop people from poaching Cascades wolves. And it would separate the wolf issues in the Northwest from the ones we've heard so much about in Montana and Idaho."
Stop the grasslands war: co-operation is the key: Mar 27 - Collaboration was the message of a forum discussion about the BC Boundary ecosystems, featuring the forests of the Columbia Highlands and Tim Coleman of Conservation Northwest. "It involves a lot of collaboration between community leaders," explained Coleman. "It's a story about how we went from fighting to co-operation."
Poachers and political damage: Mar 10 - Wenatchee World on wolves and poaching, "The problem with predators is us. How do we deal with them? The answers are mostly political. The divide is large. It should be remembered that Washington's wolves are not optional...and...the law protects them."
Wildlife managers use kid gloves to keep critters safe: Mar 23 - Methow Valley News on the ins and outs of wildlife research. Says Jasmine Minbashian of Conservation Northwest, "...collaring can help us keep track of the animals and provide a disincentive to poaching."
Hound-hunting deal in the works: Truce? An agreement struck this week between Conservation Northwest and an Eastern Washington legislator should should lead to fewer cougars being hunted, more controls on how the big cats are taken each year, and a focus on science-based management.
A new brand of trust land?: Conservation Northwest's director Mitch Friedman testified for the Community Forest Trust bill, which would protect working forests on state-managed lands around fast-sprawling urban areas.
Meeting set for caribou habitat coordination: Bonner County commissioners are meeting with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service officials on Jan. 24 to discuss the designation of critical habitat for caribou in the southern Selkirk Mountains. “It doesn’t create a wilderness — I think that’s one of the biggest misconceptions just in general of critical habitat,” said Susan Burch of the USFWS.
Jay Kehne joins The Conversation: Jay Kehne, newly appointed commissioner to Washington's Fish & Wildlife Commission and Okanogan County outreach associate for Conservation Northwest, discusses Washington's wolves and more with KUOW's Ross Reynolds.
People are more of an impact: Letter to the editor: There are bigger challenges to us, as ranchers, than predation by wolves. Increased residential growth in land that has historically been in grazing creates all kinds of headaches. For instance, we are losing cattle to poachers.
Fish and Wildlife appointee criticized: [Jay] Kehne, a longtime resident of Eastern Washington, said there is no conflict of interest in being an environmentalist and a member of the Fish and Wildlife Commission.
Why this winter's snowy owl visit captivates us: Author Paul Bannick talks with Crosscut about the birds that have made an unusual winter appearance - an irruption - into the Northwest, their significance as an indicator species, and the power that owls have in the human mind.
Federal plan targets barred owls to save spotted owls: Kristen Boyles, attorney with Earthjustice, said blaming barred owls is not a winning strategy. "We need to keep the focus on increased habitat protection; that's the key to the owl's survival," she told Reuters.
Western forests dying at an increased rate: Old-growth forests, particularly those in the Northwest, store large amounts of carbon, making them a resource in combating global warming," said Jerry Franklin, a professor of forest ecology at the University of Washington. "But as trees die, they decompose and give off carbon dioxide, contributing to the amount of greenhouse gases. Young forests store very little carbon, and it takes hundreds of years to replace old growth," he said
Researchers from 2 universities to study wildfires: Researches from Washington State University and the University of Idaho plan to study the effects of extreme wildfires.
Response to "At loggerheads on Blanchard": Letter the to Editor, run in the Cascadia Weekly, by Mitch Friedman on Blanchard Mountain.
Wilderness draws tourism: A letter to the editor of the Spokesman Review regarding the protection of Colville National Forest.
Editorial: Wolf pack no surprise for many: People have reported wolf sightings in Kittitas County for years, but search in Kittitas County started with reports from citizens and state and federal agency personnel. Remote, motion-triggered cameras were set up by several agencies and private groups, and images were captured on camera by the group Conservation Northwest.
Proposal would add thousands of acres to wilderness: The Wenatchee World on the Okanogan-Wenatchee proposed revised forest plan: The Forest Service proposal adds only 3 percent of the forest to new wilderness.
Wildlife underpass proposed for highway: Conservation Northwest is raising public awareness for a potential wildlife underpass under US Hwy 97 to keep the highway safe for drivers and wildlife. "Just about the only people who don’t stand to gain from this might be auto body repair shops," said Jay Kehne
Environmental groups oppose proposed Glacier-area hydro projects: Conservation NW joins local groups to protect fish and fish habitat and stop proposed new hypdroelectric dams on creeks in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie NF near Glacier.
Draft raises questions — on both sides: Wenatchee World article by KC Mehaffey on differing perspectives on revised wolf management plan, with quotes from Jasmine Minbashian of Conservation Northwest.
Roadless bill would protect wild areas and save money: Conservation Northwest conservation associate Seth Cool writes about the importance of protecting roadless areas in Washington, for wildlife, water, and future generations.
Wolves confirmed on Colville Indian Reservation: Except for a small strip of land between the Okanogan River and Highway 97, wolves are not considered endangered by the federal government on the reservation. That means the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation — a sovereign nation — will develop its own plan for managing them.
Wolf eco-tourism in Yellowstone with biologist Nathan Varley: Montana Evening Edition explores the new and growing industry of wolf eco-tourism in Yellowstone National Park.
Removal of wolf protection affects part of Washington state: Craig Welch of the Seattle Times overviews the implications of the gray wolf's removal from the endangered species list. "Without a state management plan, we lack goals and strategies for what we want for wolves anywhere in this state," says Mitch Friedman.
State board tables Lake Whatcom land transfer: For the second time, the Washington Board of Natural Resources has tabled a land reorganization measure that would have cleared the way for transfer of about 8,000 acres of the Lake Whatcom watershed to Whatcom County for parks.
Editorial: Wolves under fire: Wolves no longer may enjoy federal endangered species protections across most of the West, but their status can best be described in one word: endangered.
Letter to the editor: Welcome home, wolves: Support for a Washington wolf plan voiced by Larry Whitesitt from Fairfield, WA, one of many who attended the Aug. Fish & Wildlife Commission public hearing in Ellensburg.
These wolves are not optional: The Wenatchee World Editorial Board supports a conservation plan for wolves in Washington.
Delighted to hear of wolves’ return: A letter to the editor in support of Washington wolf recovery, arguing regulation for ranchers and landowners, not wolves.
See grouse and goshawks in remote Pend Oreille wilderness: Salmo-Priest Wilderness, at the extreme northeastern corner of Washington in the Colombia Highlands, is on Audubon's "Palouse to Pines Loop."
Global Warming Could Spur Growth in Northwest Forests- Study: The New York Times published an article on a new study which shows that the rise in temperature could cause productivity of high elevation forests, such as those in many parts of Washington, to also increase.
Community richer for having Kehne: Letter to the editor: The talents of a good and highly qualified local man are being squandered by an unsavory push to divide and politicize. Our community is the richer for Jay Kehne's presence.
Wilderness and hunting: A letter to the editor about Kettle Range wilderness designation.
About a dozen fishers to be released in final chapter of Olympic park reintroduction efforts: The last group of fishers will be released in the Olympic National Park over the weekend. Some will be released in the Elwha area, and some on the west side of the park.
Appeals Court OKs logging on Blanchard without environmental study: The state Court of Appeals overturnsa lower court's decision that would have required the state Department of Natural Resources to do an environmental study of Blanchard Mountain before allowing logging.
New Project To Document Wildlife Sightings Along I-90: The I-90 Wildlife Bridges Coalition launches a new citizen-based wildlife monitoring project for I-90 near Snoqualmie Pass, as reported by the Washington Department of Transportation in their online blog.
Drivers encouraged to report wildlife on I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass: As of Nov. 4, 2010, drivers traveling over Interstate 90 Snoqualmie Pass are asked to report wildlife and roadkill sightings as part of the national “Give Wildlife a Brake” week.
Spotted owls get a hand from Obama, but is it enough?: The Obama administration has pushed aside a weak Bush-era protection plan. But the owl is in precarious condition.
Wolf opponents circle at Okanogan hearing: K.C. Mehaffey of the Wenatchee World reports from Omak on public attendence at the near final public hearing on a draft wolf conservation plan for Washington.
Wolf Management Plan Draws Big Crowd: The Peninsula Daily News covers the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan meeting in Sequim.
Female wolverine put in some miles, biology data suggests: The latest capture in the North Cascades’ first wolverine study has embarked on a journey that is surprising even the wildlife biologists who are studying her.
Wolf hunt suspended in southern Montana: The Los Angeles Times reports on the cancellation of the wolf hunting season in Southern Montana, however hunting remains open in other parts of the state.
New strategy to save forests: logging: Lynda Mapes of the Seattle Times reports on environmentalists are looking to loggers to fend off development of nearly 1 million acres of lush, low-elevation privately owned forest in Western Washington — some of the last places holding the Puget Sound ecosystem together. "We need to hug loggers the way we do farmers. Given the choice between a logger and a developer, I'm going to take the logger, even if that challenges some of the notions of my old friends." -Mitch Friedman
Commission restricts the use of lead fishing tackle on lakes with loons: The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission approved restrictions on the use of lead fishing tackle at 13 lakes with nesting common loons during its Dec. 2-4 meeting in Olympia.
Wilderness trails get attention: 12/9/10. Newport News Miner. Volunteer trail work crews cleared downed trees, debris and brush from trails and made improvements to trail features to ready them for hikers, hunters, and equestrians. Using traditional hand tools such as crosscut saws, Pulaskis and shovels, volunteers and Forest Service workers built and repaired trail bridges and cleared a winters worth of downed trees and branches off the trail.
Environmentalists and Loggers Find Common Ground: Radio segment by Susan Allen on Open Range on AgInfo.Net website.
Appeals Court Keeps Yellowstone Grizzlies on Threatened List: ...decline of the forests [and white-bark pine, grizzly bear food source] should not be underestimated. "It is the single largest ecological change in our lifetime."
Wolf Foes Turn to Congress and Legislatures: Proposed legislation threatens protection of Northwest wolves. Conservation Northwest calls Rep. Taylor's bill Taylor's bill extreme and unnecessary and an invitation to wolf poaching.
Wide-open wilderness Washington groups set to chime in on national forest debates: Mike Peterson of The Lands Council is quoted: “By working with timber companies and the Forest Service, we have found agreement on a sustainable plan that provides jobs in the woods, as well as all the other benefits the Colville forest can provide.... Supporting new wilderness in the Kettle Range of Ferry County was an important part of reaching that agreement.” As well, the Washington Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers supports many of the wilderness proposals.
Whatcom executive candidates differ on watershed land transfer: Two of four candidates support a transfer of lands to create a proposed new Lake Whatcom Forest Preserve.
Saturday Soapbox: Wolves benefit habitat, and there are ways to aid ranchers: After Conservation Northwest's remote cameras caught footage of the Teanaway wolf pack, people are learning why wolves are worthy of protection.
Volunteers keep eye on wildlife along Interstate 90: "This coyote was just literally trying to eat dinner," MacKay said. "Then - bam! He's gone." A story interviewing Paula MacKay of Western Transportation Institute (MSU) on the importance of wildlife bridges along highways. Conservation Northwest is one of the pioneering forces behind promoting connectivity and wildlife safety along I-90.
Biologists to release 13 Fishers in Olympic National Park: The Sequim Gazette reports on the final 13 fishers that were released into the Olympic National Park on February 20th.
New effort to prevent elk collisions: KING 5 news highlights the importance of creating corridors to help elk and other animals cross the highways safely.
Obama decisions on wildlife raising environmentalists' ire: Mercury News reports on some of the decisions related to species on the endangered animals list that President Obama has made during his first year in office.
Judge faults removal of wolf from endangered species list: Matthew Brown of the Associate Press looks at the controversy surrounding the hunting of wolves in Idaho and Montana
Commission will consider wolf proposal next weekend: On Dec 3, the Washington Fish & Wildlife Commission will consider adopting a plan for managing wolves. Since 2009, WDFW's proposed plan has been the focus of 19 public meetings, written comments from nearly 65,000 people, a scientific peer review, and recommendations from the 17-member citizen Wolf Working Group, formed in 2007 to advise the department in developing the plan.
Washington's wolf-management plan only a starting point: My hope is that all Washingtonians get the chance to hear and know the songs of wolves resonating across the land. To me, they are a powerful voice of wilderness, a sign that nature is restoring its lost balance.
Mountain caribou captive breeding program unveiled: Officials from the federal government and the Alberta and B.C. governments joined Parks Canada and Calgary Zoo officials at that zoo on Nov. 25 to announce a new captive breeding program for threatened mountain caribou...the caribou will be bred in captivity and eventually released into the wild to augment smaller herds.
States work conservation into trust lands management: Blanchard Mountain exemplifies a clash common to Western state trust lands. As state economies expand beyond resource extraction and taxpayers seek more from public lands than just pay dirt, the trust-land mandate is being challenged in new ways. Conservation Northwest ED Mitch Friedman is quoted...
Wolves in Washington slowly gain a presence: Doug Nadvornick reports on radio station KUOW on living with wolves in north-central Washington.
Half of B.C. must be protected as hedge against climate change, report says: Forest ecologists are recommended an additional 35% of the land base in B.C. be set aside as protected areas according to the Vancouver Sun.
Frogs: KUOW News reports on the spotted frogs that were raised at the Oregon Zoo and Cedar Creek Corrections Center and then released at Fort Lewis
LEED green-building standards must not be diluted: The U.S. Green Building Council sets standards for environmentally superior buildings and must not dilute the value of its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design label, writes guest columnist to The Seattle Times, Denis Hayes.
Why isn’t the wolverine better protected in the Northern Rockies?: Feb 25 - New West writer Dennis Higman ruminates on the rare privilege of seeing a wolverine in the wild and wonders how we might better protect them.
$7,500 for information on wolf killing: Mar 2 - The compensation for information is higher because wolves, including those in the Methow, are at a fragile state of recovery, says Mitch Friedman, Conservation Northwest’s executive director.
Rewards increased for wildlife poaching: Mar 6 - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife expands its reward fund for apprehending wildlife poachers with contributions from Conservation Northwest.
Conserving working ranches topic of fundraiser: Coville-area rancher John Dawson is featured at a Spokane event to promote the virtues of working ranches.
Ski resort approval poses Jumbo issue for Christy Clark: ...the Jumbo Glacier Resort... [is] an international environmental fight supported by celebrities such as hockey legend Scott Niedermayer and singer Bruce Cockburn. Both of them are part of a campaign to keep the wilderness area undeveloped.
What to do with wolves: Jasmine Minbashian, special projects director at Conservation Northwest, joins The Conversation to weigh in on wolf recovery and a Washington wolf plan.
Grizzlies expanding their range, could come to North Shore: Rare footage from the Pitt River valley is evidence of grizzly bears' expansion in southwestern BC.
The forgotten North Cascades grizzly bear: "The Cascades grizzly bear has always been the red-headed stepchild of the grizzly bear recovery program," says Joe Scott of Conservation Northwest, the leading local advocacy group for grizzly recovery. "It generally gets the hand-me-downs, leftovers and pocket change."
State's wolf plan meeting today: The management plan for Washington's wolves that will be voted on in December includes compensation to ranchers for livestock lost to wolves.
Wash. wolves plan gets public meeting in Spokane: "No one has ever reintroduced wolves to Washington," Madonna Luers of WDFW said. "There is no reason to. They are naturally returning to this area on their own."
Grizzly Bears Are Vanishing from North Cascades National Park: Biologists are on the trail of the rare North Cascades grizzly bear. “As more time goes by, you have to wonder what’s happening to the few bears we have left,” says Bill Gaines, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Forest Service.
County may downsize plans for Lake Whatcom land transfer: Mitch Friedman, executive director of Conservation Northwest, said he thought election-year politics were affecting deliberations on the [park lands reconveyance within LakeWhatcom]. "My hope is that after the election, cooler heads will prevail," he said.
Wolf plan heads wildlife panel's Oct 6. agenda: For Washington's wolves, a pending Wolf Conservation and Management Plan will be the focus of a special state Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting Oct. 6 in Olympia.
Wolf plan raises some hackles: "It's not an easy decision for anyone. Everyone compromised. That's what made it successful," said Jasmine Minbashian. Changes were made to accommodate sportsmen and livestock owners, and the document provides good tools for managing wolves' impact on the state, she said. "Wolves are difficult animals to live with. This gives wolves a better chance of surviving."
Conservation easement purchased near Republic: “The Gotham Ranch is providing beef, timber and livelihoods in a way that is compatible with the needs of wolverine, lynx and other wildlife,” Conservation Northwest Mitch Friedman said. “Nestled right up against the Kettle Crest and the potential wilderness lands there, this represents a great balance that I think a lot of people can get behind.”
Critical habitat proposed for Selkirk caribou: Woodland caribou have been on the endangered species list since 1984, and now the federal government is making steps to designate critical habitat to aid in their recovery in the southern Selkirk Mountains.
New rules for mining will impact caribou habitat: Companies in BC will be allowed to explore without requiring Environment Ministry exemption. The newly allowed exploration includes newly protected habitat for the critically endangered caribou.
New website lets drivers track wildlife along stretch of I-90: November 2010 heralds the launch of www.i90wildlifewatch.org, where drivers can report all wildlife they see along the interstate from North Bend to Easton.
Wolf hunts unsustainable, analysis says: A scientific study found that Montana stands to lose approximately 50 percent of its gray wolves under a hunting proposal submitted in mid-September 2010 to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, "...above a sustainable level,” says one of the study's authors.
Powerline appeals caught in volley between agencies: While DNR has announced its “intention to appeal” a ruling allowing the PUD to condemn state land for its powerline, it remains unclear whether the agency will be able to argue the case in a higher court. Conservation Northwest has filed a notice of appeal in the situation in order to give the state additional time to sort out what they plan to do.
Disaster leads to chance for giant park in Whatcom County: Crosscut gives an update on the 8,400 acre land transfer agreement between Whatcom County and the Department of Natural Resources.
Methow power-line fight turns into Supreme Court showdown: The fight over the future of the shrub-steppe grasslands above the shimmering Methow River has become what few could have predicted: a constitutional feud between the heads of two state agencies.
Wolf hunt will stay open in Chilcotin; too many wolves threaten horses, caribou: "You can't just kill wolves. You have to deal with the ultimate causes that put these animals in danger in the first place," said Joe Scott of Conservation Northwest, citing habitat damage from human activity. "Wolves have a key role to play in a balanced ecosystem."
Skinned corpse of wolf discovered, but state won’t say from which pack: Feb 16 - Methow Valley News reports on a new gray wolf poaching incident in Washington State.
Tracking science: Biologist's findings show forest diversity, health influenced by wolves: Michael Jamison of the Missoulian reports on the importance of wolves in maintaining a healthy forest and ecosystem.
Ranchers sell development rights to preserve way of life: Dawson and his wife, Melva, recently made a move to preserve their Colville, Wash., cattle ranch under the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service Farm and Ranch Protection Program. The nonprofit Inland Northwest Land Trust of Spokane filed the application in partnership with the Dawsons and Conservation Northwest.
Seattlest volunteer spotlight: Conservation Northwest: Volunteers Amy Tsui and Mike Webb are recognized by Seattlest for their outstanding work with Conservation Northwest's citizen wildlife monitoring Program.
Pacific Northwest forests act as massive carbon banks: A new study shows that the thick, wet forests of the Pacific Northwest are the carbon storage powerhouses of the U.S., storing more than 1-1/2 times as much carbon as the entire amount of carbon dioxide burned in fossil fuels throughout the country each year.
Tests confirm fourth Washington wolf pack: Confirmed Teanaway wolf pack discovered by Conservation Northwest volunteers.
Colville forest plan up for comment: Wilderness is a necessary and important component of a balanced forest plan for the Colville, but the proposed plan also includes areas where restoration and timber harvest would occur, areas for motorized and backcountry recreation, and other things the local community has asked for,” said Derrick Knowles with Conservation Northwest. “It’s nobody’s perfect plan, but it’s got a little of something in it for everybody.
Photo confirms first grizzly bear spotting in 15 years: Live Science online reports on hiker Joe Sebille's Cascades grizzly bear photo.
$1 billion timber slush fund or fair trade deal?: Conservation Northwest was one of several environmental groups who together filed a Freedom of Information Act suit against the U.S. Trade Representative for the handling of public monies garnered from tariffs levied on Canadian softwood lumber (read, virgin old-growth conifer wood).
14 fishers released in Olympic National Park: The Port Townsend and Jefferson County Leader reports that despite the snow and cold, biologists reintroduced 14 fishers on Dec. 22 within the Elwha and Sol Duc valleys of Olympic National Park.
A collaborative effort: Statesman-Examiner article about the team effort that resulted in a grant for the Disabled Hunter Access Program
A Good Read: The North Columbia Monthly reviews the book, Columbia Highlands: Exploring Washington's Last Frontier.
A Timber Truce in Northeast Washington: KUOW local news highlight on the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition and a blueprint for the Colville National Forest.
Agency will study habitat of caribou: Becky Kramer of the Spokane Spokesman Review reports that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has agreed to study whether the alpine habitat for endangered US mountain caribou needs stronger protections.
Press Clips: See us in the news!
Animals need bridges, too, photos show: Seattle Times article by Lynda V. Mapes about animals caught on remote cameras in areas where wildlife crossings are to be installed on I-90 from Hyak to Easton.
Anxiety grows as wolves rebound in Methow Valley: Craig Welch of the Seattle Times reports on the coexistence of wolves and ranchers in the Methow. "Ranchers have been part of this community for generations, and a lot of them have been really great stewards," said Jay Kehne, with the environmental group Conservation Northwest. "When a wolf moves in, of course there's more concern. But just because there's a wolf pack in an area doesn't mean you can't ranch."
BC announces caribou plan: Conservation Northwest of Bellingham was one of 10 environmental groups that worked with the B.C. government to develop the plan to protect mountain caribou habitat in the Inland Temperate Rainforest.
Biologist pick up wolf signal after week of silence: Joyce Campbell, of the Methow Valley News, reports on new information about the Lookout Pack's whereabouts.
Biologists capture suspected wolves in Okanogan County: Associated Press article by Shannon Dininny on capture and collaring of two suspected wolves in Okanogan County.
Biologists seek answers to grizzly bear migration roadblocks: Seattle Times article by Jim Robbins on the habitat fragmentation by roads that is preventing grizzly bears and many other species from reaching critical habitat.
Biologists study the shy wolverine in the North Cascades: "The North Cascades is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can still find wolverines," said Jasmine Minbashian, a spokeswoman for Conservation Northwest, a Bellingham-based wildlife conservation group. "We have a responsibility that they don't disappear under our watch."
Blame ATV activists for problems, not the vehicles: An article by Rich Landers published January 31, 2008, in The Spokesman-Review on growing ATV use in the West
Blanchard Mountain on KPLU: Radio news piece on the Blanchard agreement and its larger context of working timberlands versus development in the front country. The piece leaves out the key piece of the agreement: that the state will be buying $12 million worth of nearby private timberland to prevent sprawl in the foothills of the Chuckanuts.
BLM nixes mining proposal near Mount St. Helens: The Daily News article about the Colorado mining company stopping its plans to build a mine near Mount St. Helens after rejection from the BLM.
Bloody pelt in shipping box tips agents to wolf killing; ranching family's homes searched: Full-length Seattle Times article by Warren Cornwall on wolf poaching incident with quotes from Conservation Northwest.
Cameras a tool for biologists and conservationists: Rich Landers of the Spokeman Review chronicles the effectiveness of remote cameras in wildlife conservation and biology, hails Conservation Northwest as a pioneer of remote camera use.
Can elusive fishers stage a comeback in Olympic National Park?: Tacoma News Tribune article by Susan Gordon on fisher introduction
Can wolves restore an ecosystem?: Sandi Doughton of the Seattle Times reports that a team of Oregon State University biologists have just released a study that attributes significant ecosystem imbalances to the extinction of wolves in certain areas.
Cariboo's caribou threatened: Carole Rooney of 100 Mile House Free Press writes about British Columbia's Mountain Caribou Recovery Implementation Plan and a recent study that uncovers the unique ancestry of the mountain caribou.
Caught on camera: Rare and elusive Cascade animals: Phuong Le of the Seattle Times covers release of the new report documenting remote camera images garnered in 2008 by the Cascades Citizen Wildlife Monitoring Project.
City, environmental group at odds over logging-rules settlement: A news article in the Bellingham Herald by Jared Paben on a controversial settlement agreement regarding compensation for the Lake Whatcom Landscape Plan with quotes from Mitch Friedman.
Consensus helps harvest: Capital Press article detailing how some of the pressure to over-harvest private lands has decreased due to the efforts of the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition to promote federal timber harvests. The Colville National Forest has been designated a "model forest" by the USDA.
Conservation groups challenge owl recovery plan: Associated Press article by Jeff Barnard on the lawsuit filed against the Bush administration for unjustifiably allowing old growth logging as part of the northern spotted owl recovery plan.
Controversy of the wild: The return of the wolf: Wenatchee World weekend feature by KC Mehaffey on the return of the wolf to Washington. Includes several quotes from wolf working group members, including Conservation Northwest's Derrick Knowles.
Corner of State Sets Pace to Save Forests: Seattle P-I columnist Joel Connelly talks about the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition's new blueprint for forest management, which has identified over 300,000 acres of wilderness-quality lands, as well as thousands of acres of restoration forests and responsible management areas, in the Colville National Forest.
Cougar conundrum: Yakima Herald article by Scott Sandsberry on a controversial expansion of cougar hunting in Washington. Quotes from Conservation Northwest's Joe Scott.
County OKs ending watershed logging rules lawsuit: Jared Paben of the Bellingham Herald reports that the County Council has unanimously approved a settlement to uphold the Lake Whatcom Landscape Plan in the Lake Whatcom watershed.
Discovery of bloody wolf pelt prompts investigation: Wenatchee World news article by KC Mehaffey on wolf poaching incident
DNA samples confirm gray wolves are back in Methow Valley: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on confirmation of wolf pack in the Methow Valley and wolf pup photos by Conservation Northwest. Quotes from special projects director Jasmine Minbashian.
Draft owl plan "deeply flawed," panel says: Seattle Times article on how the Bush administration's plan for assuring the survival of the northern spotted owl falls short.
Education funding should not have to rely on logging: Bellingham Herald opinion piece by Daniel Jack Chasen on the pitfalls of tying education to logging
Endangered Species: Political assault: Canada lynx is one of the species that could benefit from an agency review of politically influenced decisions that disregarded important critical habitat for the wild cat.
Environmental groups to challenge finding that wolverines aren't endangered species: Wenatchee World article on wolverine ruling
Environmentalists sue over Canadian timber agreement: Lisa Stiffler of the Seattle Post-Intellingencer reports on a lawsuit filed this week against the federal government alleging an illegal and unfair agreement with Canadian leaders to settle a dispute over timber sales.
Feds host meeting on lynx habitat: Wenatchee World article on lynx habitat meeting with quotes from Conservation Northwest Science Director Dave Werntz.
Feds increase area of proposed critical habitat for lynx: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on proposed critical habitat for lynx
Feds looking at three Twisp locals in wolf kill incident: Story in the Methow Valley News by Joyce Campbell on the investigation into the death of one of the pups from Washington state's only wild gray wolf pack.
Feds propose extended lynx habitat - Kettle Range not included in plan: Spokesman Review article on lynx critical habitat
Feds retreat on Northern Rockies wolf hunting plan: Associated Press article on the federal government's plan to withdraw a rule that would have removed gray wolves in the Northern Rockies from the endangered species list.
Feds reverse plan to severely slash habitat for threatened sea bird: Associated Press article on decision to abandon efforts to slash marblet murrelet habitat
Feds: Wolverine numbers low, but not endangered: US Fish and Wildlife decided against using the ESA to protect rare wolverines.
Discovery of babies of reintroduced species excites Olympic National Park biologists: Peninsula Daily News article about the first babies, known as kits, of the fishers released into the Olympic National Park in a joint effort led by Conservation Northwest.
Fishers making comeback at Olympic National Park: King 5 TV new story and video footage of fisher reintroduction in the Olympics
Fishers released in Olympic National Park: The Oregonian reports on 14 fishers were released at remote sites within the Elwha, Sol Duc and Hoh valleys of Olympic National Park, moving closer to the goal of establishing an initial population of 100 animals. "What a great holiday gift to Olympic National Park and the people of Washington," said Mitch Friedman, executive director of Conservation Northwest. "Fifteen furry fishers in an old-growth tree."
Fishers settle into their new home: A great Kitsap Sun news article by Christopher Dunagan on the reintroduction of Pacific fishers to the eastern part of the Olympic Peninsula.
Fishers Staking Out Territories in Olympic Peninsula: A Kitsap Sun article about the successful reintroduction and adaptation of the Fisher to the Olympic Peninsula.
Forestry groups queried on U.S. funds: Seattle Post-Intelligencer article by Robert McClure looking into controversial Bush deal that funneled million to timber groups. Quotes from Conservation Northwest's Joe Scott.
Funds available for Washington forest work: An article by Terry Richard of the Oregonian about funds allocated to fix forest roads, trails, and facilities to the benefit of wildlife and the public.
Gray wolves are coming; state plans to be ready: The state is preparing a management and conservation plan in preparation for their return.
Grizzlies using highway crossings: Cathy Ellis of the Rocky Mountain Outlook reports that grizzly bears are using wildlife bridges to cross the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park in increasing numbers.
Grizzly sighting is ‘pretty convincing’: Wenatchee World article by Michelle McNiel on a hopeful sighting of the elusive North Cascades grizzly bear.
"Grizzly Wars" is the saga of the "ghost bears" of the North Cascades: Seattle Times article by Tim McNulty gives a favorable review of David Knibb's "Grizzly Wars," a book that makes a convincing argument to recover the diminished North Cascades grizzly bear.
Group dynamics: hikers join forces to enjoy, improve trails: Work parties, including some led by Conservation Northwest, are becoming an increasingly popular way to learn about backcountry areas while maintaining trails.
Groups agree on wilderness proposals: Spokesman Review article by Becky Kramer about the proposed Columbia Highlands roadless areas, featuring Dick Slagle's bittersweet account of his lifelong history near this untouched wilderness.
Groups challenge lynx decision: Susan Gallagher of the Associated Press reports that a twentyfold federal increase in land designated as critical habitat for the Canada lynx falls short partly by leaving the cat, which is protected under the Endangered Species Act, at too much risk from climate change, four environmental groups contend in a lawsuit.
Hopes fade for spotted owl: Seattle Times environmental reporter Warren Cornwall on the continuing decline of the spotted owl, despite a 14-year-old ban on the logging of old-growth forests on most federal lands.
Hot lynx: Matthew Frank of the Missoula News reports on a lawsuit filed to help protect lynx from the effects of climate change. "This is the first lawsuit that I know of that says when [FWS] designates critical habitat, they need to take into account the future of that habitat as it relates to global warming," say Sierra Club attorney Eric Huber.
Howling survey may indicate wolf pack: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on agency wolf howling efforts in Okanogan County.
Howls, Prints Herald Return of Wolves to Washington: The Spokane Spokesman Review reports on the expected return of wolves to Washington and a panel created to develop a management plan for their return.
Howls in Okanogan area signal of wolves' return?: A Seattle Times article by Warren Cornwall on the possible return of wolves to Washington State.
"I'm outta here!": A blurb in the Methow Valley News about a released Canada lynx.
Inside the search for Washington's wolves: Gary Chittim of King 5 News reports on the return of wolves to Washington's Methow Valley and films a lone wolf traversing a snowy field.
Interior secretary should repeal Bush's weakening of the Endangered Species Act: The Seattle Times publishes as editorial opinion on the Endangered Species Act from Conservation Northwest's international conservation director Joe Scott.
Investigators dig deep to find who destroyed meadow: Wenatchee World article about the destruction of a Wenatchee meadow by four-wheel-drive trucks.
Investigators looking into wolf killing: King 5 News reports on the poaching of wolves in north-central Washington.
Is cougar hunting breeding chaos?: Instead of reducing conflicts between cougars and humans, heavy hunting seems to make the problems worse, says a WSU researcher.
Journey of a thousand steps: Desire to Protect wildlife, forests drives activist's work for change: Bellingham Herald ECO article recognizing Mitch Friedman, founder of Conservation Northwest.
Judge to decide if wolverines will be protected: An Everett Herald story by Bill Sheets on Conservation Northwest's effort to protect wolverine under the Endangered Species Act. Quotes from international conservation director Joe Scott.
Letters to the editor - About Poaching - Methow Valley News: Residents near the wolves speak up.
Lookout Pack returns to lower elevations: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on the return of the Lookout Pack, Washington's first confirmed wolf pack in 70 years, to the Methow Valley after a summer spent in the the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness.
Lookout pack's alpha female wolf appears pregnant: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell explores the history of wolf sighting in the North Cascades and reports that alpah female of Lookout pack appears to be pregnant.
Lynx critical habitat increases: One of the Seattle P-I's last stories: Lynx critical habitat increases, but some essential habitat is left out.
Methow Valley residents adjust to living with wolves: Wenatchee World staff writer K.C. Mehaffey reports on Methow Valley residents response to living with wolves as the new Lookout Pack settles in.
Methow wolverine project expands, is model for Canadian, west side studies: Joyce Campbell of the Methow Valley News writes about the collaborative efforts to study Washington's sensitive-listed wolverine.
More fishers to be released into Olympic National Park on Sunday: Paige Dickerson of the Peninsula Daily News reports that 15 fishers will be released into three areas of the Olympic National Park as part of a project to release 100 of the animals over a three year period.
Mountain caribou protection not good enough: coalition: An article by Erin Hitchcock of the Williams Lake Tribune about the Mountain Caribou Project's dissatisfaction with certain elements of BC's mountain caribou recovery plan.
My, what wolf-like DNA you have, grandma...: Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on identifying wolves using DNA.
New project uses slash for power: K.C. Mehaffey of the Wenatchee World reports that the US Forest Service has launched a pilot project to use woody debris from thinning projects to generate electricity instead of burning it, with a quote from Conservation Northwest's Tim Coleman.
Obama won't defend Bush spotted owl plan: AP article in The Oregonian on the Obama administration's backing away from a tainted recovery plan for northern spotted owl.
Of wolves and politicians: A senator tries to make peace: Reporter Joel Connelly reports on Montana Senator Jon Tester's push lto help ranchers living in wolf country.
Officers look into gray wolf killing in eastern WA: AP report by Phuong Le on the illegal killing of gray wolf in Okanogan county, published online in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Okanogan officials balk at federal land buys: K.C. Mehaffey reports on protecting both wildlife and ranchlands in the Okanogan and Similkameen valleys.
Old-growth retains carbon, study finds: Jeff Barnard of the Associated Press reports on a new study that finds that old-growth forests play important role in retaining carbon.
Our view: A Wild Sky ride: after six years, Cascade wilderness finally reality: A Spokesman-Review editorial article about the Wild Sky bill establishing a new wilderness area in the Cascade range.
Plan to protect lynx includes 2,000 square miles in NCW: Wenatchee World by AP and Michele McNeil article on lynx critical habitat
Poaching of wolf investigated in north-central Washington: Seattle Times blurb on the poaching of a protected wolf in north-central Washington.
Possible return of wolves sparks planning for their presence: Olympian news article by Chester Allen on wolf management and conservation plan for Washington.
Powerline EIS upheld on appeal: A Methow Valley News article on how the Environmental Impact Statement was upheld for the Pateros-Twisp transmission line.
Proof of wolf kill may elude investigators: Joyce Campbell of the Methow Valley News reports that an investigation into whether a gray wolf was responsible for a dead cow near Twisp, which would qualify the cow's owner for compensation from Defenders of Wildlife, is inconclusive.
Rare fishers released into Olympic National Park: Peninsula Daily News coverage of fisher reintroduction
Re-emergence of gray wolves no cause for high hysteria: Seattle Times columnist Ron Judd writes about the return of wolves to the Methow Valley and nearby resident's let-them-be attitude.
Reconveyance a great idea for Lake Whatcom watershed: Bellingham Herald op-ed by Rand Jack on importance of creating a forest preserve for Lake Whatcom.
Reviews hoot down Administration's spotted-owl science as "seriously flawed": Decisions about protecting the spotted owl made under a now-disgraced Bush administration appointee in the Interior Department are "seriously flawed," says one of two scientific reviews published August 17, 2007.
Santa's hooved helpers endangered: Luke Jones of Youth Radio reports on the perils facing mountain caribou, a species of reindeer, including logging, development, and climate change.
Scientists reject new spotted owl plan: Associated Press article by Jeff Barnard on an independent scientific review of Bush administration's spotted owl recovery plan.
Send Roads Package to Voters Sans Cross-Base Highway: Tacoma News Tribune editorial board says Cross-Base Highway should be rejected.
Shady Bush deal could see light of day: Seattle P-I columnist Joel Connelly writes that Obama's new freedom of information policy might allow previously withheld evidence to be used in a lawsuit against an allegedly illegal Bush Administration softwood lumber deal.
Skinned wolf creates cross-border legal quandary: A Vancouver Sun article by Randy Boswell about the poaching of a wolf pup from Washington's Lookout Pack and its legal implications in Alberta.
State puts up wolf signs to warn hunters
State's first purebred wolf pack since 1930s found in Methow Valley: Wenatchee World article by KC Mehaffey on confirmation of wolf pack in the Methow and wolf pup photos captured by Conservation Northwest. Quotes from special projects director, Jasmine Minbashian.
Survey: County residents want to protect farmland, grow in current urban areas: The Bellingham Herald reports on the published results of a Whatcom County residents survey conducted by the Whatcom Legacy Project. A majority of those polled want to protect water and farmland and think builders should pay for development infrastructure.
Taking (out) the high roads to save the Skokomish: Kitsap Sun article by Christopher Dunagan on Conservation Northwest's collaborative efforts to restore the Skokomish watershed on the Olympic Peninsula.
Unlike wolves, grizzly recovery is slow and arduous: Wenatchee World guest column by Leroy Ledeboer on differences between recovery of wolves and grizzlies.
U.S. Rep. Larsen releases earmark request list, Whatcom County could get more than $13M: Washington's Rep. Rick Larsen has requested an appropriations earmark of $1 million for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to move forward with recovering endangered grizzly bears in the North Cascades.
Vehicles killing threatened mountain caribou herd: The Vancouver Sun report on three recent deaths of threatened mountain caribou by cars on Highway 3 near Creston in Canada.
We don't have to destroy our forests to get soft toilet paper: An editorial by Greenpeace Canada about Canada's "softwood," or conifer forest, logging. Sixty percent of the trees cut in Canada's forests are pulped for paper.
Weasel-like fisher back in state after many decades: Seattle Times coverage of fisher reintroduction
Weasel-like fishers make a comeback in Olympic National Park: Lynda V. Mapes of the Seattle Times writes about a confirmed litter of four fisher kits in the Olympic National Park, a sign that the reintroduced animal once believed to be extinct in Washington is thriving.
Whatcom County Council approves watershed land-transfer deal: Jared Paben of the Bellingham Herald reports that the County Council voted to move forward on preserving roughly 8,000 acres of the Lake Whatcom watershed.
Wild gray wolves could be protected in state: Tri-city Herald article about the proposed plan that would protect the gray wolves in Washington state.
Wild Sky event has unlikely guest: Seattle PI column on Mark Rey, Undersecretary of Agriculture, being an unlikely guest at the Wild Sky Wilderness dedication. Conservation Northwest is referenced in the article.
Wild Sky is a go at last: Murray's long crusade crowned by success: Seattle PI column on Washington's newest wilderness area.
Wildlife agents investigate possible wolf-killed cow: K.C. Mehaffey, Wenatchee World writer, on an investigation into a possible wolf depredation in the Methow Valley.
Wildlife Officials Investigating Wolf Poached In Washington: KUOW radio news report on the gray wolf poaching in Washington.
Wildlife study: Wolverines without borders: Researchers from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and US Forest Service are working with Canadian biologists to track wolverines in the North Cascades.
Wolf case could take months to process: A Methow Valley News article by Joyce Campbell on the legal timeline of the wolf poaching case and why the investigation into the poaching case of wolves in the Methow Valley may not be finished for some time.
Wolf management plans being scrutinized: Rich Landers' Spokesman-Review article on the scrutiny of the Idaho and Washington fish and wildlife commissions over the removal of the wolves from the endangered species list.
Wolf monitoring indicates pack is doing well: Wenatchee World article by KC Mehaffey on wildlife biologists and volunteers monitoring Washington state's first wolf pack. Quotes from Conservation Northwest's Jasmine Minbashian.
Wolf packs: How they work: Wenatchee World sidebar by KC Mehaffey on the social structure of a wolf pack. Quotes from Conservation Northwest's Jasmine Minbashian.
Wolverine advocates give notice of intent to sue: Associated Press article by Susan Gallagher on Conservation Northwest's intent to sue to protect wolverines under the Endangered Species Act.
Are wolves a danger to humans? Experts weigh in: Wenatchee World article by KC Mehaffey on wolves and humans. Quotes from Conservation Northwest's Derrick Knowles.
Wolves finding a home in north-central Washington?: A Wenatchee World article by K.C. Mehaffey about recent wolf sighting near the Methow Valley.
Wyden plan protects old-growth, promotes sustainable logging: Oregonian news update posted by Michael Milstein on Senator Wyden's proposal to protect old-growth forests.
Wolf management topic of another public meeting: On Mon Aug 29 in Ellensburg, the WA Fish and Wildlife Commission meets to discuss a plan for managing Washington's gray wolves in the state.
Washington wolf plan approved: After four years of development, public review and controversy, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission Saturday unanimously adopted a plan that will guide state conservation and management of gray wolves in the state.
Washington’s state wolf plan gets official approval: Political scientists believe that wolf recovery in Washington state might be less controversial because it is a competitive two-party state... In the historical sweep of American politics traditional economy, one-party states (whether Republican or Democrat) have been slow to innovate on economic or environmental policies. This article also references our press release, "Conservation Northwest applauds collaborative approach to wolf conservation."
Logging, nesting failures put northern spotted owls on brink: The Vancouver Sun reports on the BC government allowing companies to log old-growth forest in Wildlife Habitat Areas established to protect spotted owls, which today are all but wiped out in southwestern BC.
WA Wolf Bills ‘Spectacular In Their Awfulness’: Andy Walgamott of Northwest Sportsman blogs on wolves, hunters, and three recently introduced bills harmful to wolves. "Conservation Northwest’s tack appears to be to work towards common solutions that benefit, among others, hunters."
Draft wolf plan sets bar too low, say some: A Methow Valley News article by Ann McCreary on revised wolf management plan with quotes from Jasmine Minbashian of Conservation Northwest.
WWU professor works to help protect mountain goats in the Cascades: "How could mountain goat populations possibly be in trouble?" wondered [David] Wallin, an environmental science professor at Western Washington University....Over-hunting in the past turned out to be one reason. A newer culprit is Interstate 90, which runs east from Seattle and cuts across the Cascades.
Ranching, hunting, wildlife groups pack meeting on wolves: Coverage from the Ellensburg wolf hearing: “Some are going to have to be taken out when they really start causing problems and I think that the quicker the hunting community, the cattlemen’s community realize that a lot of conservation organizations like us recognize that, then we’re really not all that far apart,” said Jay Kehne of Conservation Northwest.
Forest Service may close off-road area to snowmobiling: The Colville National Forest is considering closing Harvey Creek Road, the road is sometimes used illegally by snowmobiliers to access parts of Molybdenite Ridge which is winter caribou habitat.
Environmental group seeks to join state in PUD's condemnation suit: Reporter Marcy Stamper with the Methow Valley News reports on Conservation Northwest motion to join a state suit against the Okanogan PUD's plan to build a new powerline through the biggest remaining block of state-owned shrub-steppe mule deer habitat in the Methow.
Agencies increase caribou protections: The state is ramping up patrols in an effort to protect highly endangered mountain caribou, who make the Selkirks their home. During the winter, caribou depend almost entirely for food on lichens hanging from subalpine firs or snags above the snowline. Snowmobiles can chase caribou out of important feeding areas or cause them to use up valuable energy reserves by moving away from motorized traffic, wildlife biologists said.
Wolfpacks of North Cascades, though elusive, very divisive: Three members of a Twisp-area family are under indictment in connection with the killing of two or more wolves from the Lookout Pack. [VIDEO]
Protect special places: A letter to the editor about why proposed wilderness areas such as Kettle Range need to be preserved.

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