Bill > HF649

This bill modifies Minnesota's existing law regarding wolf hunting seasons by requiring the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources commissioner to establish an annual open season for wolves, which was previously prohibited. The bill mandates that the wolf season can only be established if wolves are currently listed under the federal Endangered Species Act, and that the season must align with the state's wolf management plan. Additionally, the commissioner is now required to annually consult with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service before determining the specific details of the wolf hunting season. These consultations must include a review of data related to wolf depredation on livestock and pets, as well as other instances of human-wolf conflict, ensuring that the annual season is informed by current ecological and agricultural considerations. The changes aim to provide a structured, data-driven approach to managing wolf populations while balancing conservation efforts and agricultural interests.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0649&ssn=0&y=2025