"Breakthrough achieved" - Environment ministers agree on rapid cull of problematic wolves
Problematic wolves that have climbed over protective fences and killed livestock are to be killed more quickly in Germany in future. This was agreed by the federal and state environment ministers at their two-day meeting in Münster, Westphalia. "We have achieved a breakthrough," said North Rhine-Westphalia's Environment Minister Oliver Krischer (Greens) at the end of the conference on Friday.
The federal states are to define certain regions with increased wolf predation. Unlike in the past, it will not be necessary to wait for a DNA analysis before shooting a wolf that has breached protective measures and killed livestock.
Regulation for problem wolves a "sign of reconciliation"
Herd protection is crucial for ensuring that there is as little conflict as possible between livestock farming and wolf populations, said Krischer. "However, we also need a more practical and legally secure approach across Germany to remove individual wolves that are displaying unusual behavior."
The proposals now adopted were presented by Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke (Greens) back in October. They are compatible with EU law, said Lemke on Friday in Münster. The approach to problematic wolves was also a sign of reconciliation to pacify the social conflict. Livestock farmers and farmers had called for more far-reaching measures.
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In the agreement, North Rhine-Westphalia's Environment Minister Oliver Krischer expressed satisfaction, stating, "We have achieved a breakthrough." This referenced the decision made during the two-day meeting in Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia, where it was agreed to swiftly cull problematic wolves that have crossed protective fences and harmed livestock across Germany. Despite this action, Krischer emphasized the importance of herd protection to maintain harmony between livestock farming and wolf populations. Additionally, Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke confirmed that the new regulations for problematic wolves were in line with EU law and could help pacify the ongoing social conflict between farmers and wildlife advocates.
Source: www.stern.de
