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Current Status:

The Michigan wolf population is growing steadily. Its primary threat is persecution resulting from negative public opinion.

Achievements:

In 1992, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources appointed a State wolf recovery team. Wolves have immigrated naturally into Michigan's Upper Peninsula from Wisconsin and Ontario. The first documented natural reproduction of wolves in Michigan (other than on Isle Royale) in 40 years occurred in 1991.

Current Recovery Needs:

A State recovery and management plan is needed. Increased protection for gray wolves, along with public involvement, public education, and a procedure for controlling the loss of domestic animals and providing compensation to their owners will be important components of the recovery process.

Section 6 Funding and Activities:

In FY 1991, the Fish and Wildlife Service provided $18,000 to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for wolf monitoring activities.

Partnerships

National Park Service: This Federal agency has a history of success in managing wolves and habitat on Isle Royale. Intensive research on wolf ecology has been a part of this history. A recently completed fire management plan allows natural fires to run their course in accordance with the Eastern Timber Wolf Recovery Plan.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources: The Department heads a State wolf recovery team. Public education and involvement are key components. A cooperative Wisconsin-Michigan wolf monitoring study partially funded by the Fish and Wildlife Service is under way in the Upper Peninsula.

The Timber Wolf Alliance: A nonprofit organization that is promoting wolf recovery in the Great Lakes region, this group has supported the Wisconsin recovery program and is likely to do so in Michigan.

Recovery Plan Status:

Original plan approved 6/5/78; revised 1/31/92.