Conservationists vs. Ranchers

The wolf battle ramps up between conservationists and ranchers in Idaho. A bill's fate is set to be sealed tomorrow, as the two opponents battle it out. The sponsor of the bill is Senator Jeff Siddoway, who is also a rancher. He says that the wolves have cost ranchers thousands of dollars in losses and damage to their animals. The bill would allow hunters to hunt wolves by air, with helicopters, and high powered parachutes. Conservationists say this measure is overkill, and will land the animals back on the federally protected endangered species list.

Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee will vote on the bill on Wednesday. Also part of the bill is to allow baiting for the wolves. Ranchers would get a 60 day permit, during which time they could go after the offending wolf pack. From LocalNews8.com.