Court discusses wildlife-services funding and backs Wallowa County wolf-management resolution
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Summary
Harney County commissioners discussed a roughly $100,000 estimate for contracted wildlife services, possible funding partners and special-district options, and approved a letter supporting Wallowa County's wolf-management resolution.
Commissioners took up two related wildlife items at the March 4 session: an operational briefing about the cost and scope of contracted wildlife services and a separate county-level statement of support for Wallowa County's draft wolf-management resolution.
On services, commissioners reviewed an estimate from USDA/APHIS of approximately $100,000 for the coming year to provide predator-management and related work. Commissioners discussed trimming contract scope (for example, reducing aerial survey components), pursuing partial cost-sharing with electric utilities and other partners, and pursuing fundraising through conservation organizations or a trust arrangement. The court noted a wolf-compensation grant had already offset an estimated ~$40,000 in costs and that other local funds (Taylor Grazing, etc.) may contribute.
On policy, the court reviewed a proposed letter offering support for Wallowa County's resolution requesting additional management authority and tools for wolf impacts. Commissioners debated local and federal context (Endangered Species Act delisting efforts, federal bills) and the best tactical language for a supportive inter-county letter. The court voted to approve and send the letter.
No final long-term funding commitment for wildlife services was made; commissioners agreed to revisit funding choices during the county's budget-priority discussions.
