Environment ministers inform about the outcome of their wolf debate
The federal and state environment ministers want to report on the outcome of their wolf debate at the end of their two-day consultations in Münster this Friday. The debate will focus on regulations for the faster shooting of problem wolves that have breached protective fences and killed livestock. The shooting of conspicuous wolves is already possible under strict conditions. Since 2017, twelve wolves have already been killed with the approval of the authorities. Livestock farmers and farmers are calling for more far-reaching measures.
Back in October, Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke (Greens) presented proposals for a uniform nationwide approach. The federal states are to define certain regions with an increased number of wolf killings. Unlike in the past, it would not be necessary to wait for a DNA analysis before shooting a wolf that has breached protective measures and killed livestock. Not all state representatives were satisfied with the proposals before the conference began. The heads of department from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Bavaria made it clear that they consider federal legal changes to be necessary.
The number of wolf attacks on livestock rose significantly last year to more than 1000 cases. According to a study, more than 4000 farm animals were killed or injured. The federal government has identified herd protection measures such as fences and livestock guarding dogs as the most effective way of protecting livestock. The environmental association BUND is calling for minimum standards. According to the Federal Environment Ministry, there have been no wolf attacks on humans since wolves returned to Germany over 20 years ago.
During the upcoming environmental conferences, ministers might discuss the implementation of the new wolf regulations in light of their environmental policy. Following the conferences, scientific research could be presented to further inform the environmental policy concerning wolf management.
Source: www.dpa.com
