While reading blog posts about camping, I came across this entry: “Wolf Hunting Plan Calls for 75-Animal Quota” I find the post to be a sound and thorough discussion of the issues surrounding a delicate topic.  As an avid camper, I'm always interested in how we can successfully manage our country's natural resources. I wouldn't mind hearing more of this group of "12-person panel of ranchers, hunters, scientists and others." How was the group formed? Did they get a long? Perhaps this journey / process toward a solution the particular challenges of Montana and wolves could be an example for others around the  country to follow.

It seems that we as a society fight and quarrel over the use and care of land and animals--what we call environmental concerns. Until I read this post, I was beginning to think that the days of people working together for solutions were gone. It seems that most of the time, environmental questions of how land or other resources should be used, managed, or protected become the focal point of ego, posturing, manipulation, and greed. People often tout the issues to get attention, power , or money with little regard for the real issues.

For example, another post at the same blog, the “B Bar Blog,” quotes John Bair, the chairman of a multistate hunters group, Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife, as follows:

“My opinion is that they don’t really care about the number of wolves — they care about the political advantage,” said Mr. Bair, referring to the environmental groups. “The wolf is their silver bullet to do away with ranching and sport-hunting, which they oppose. That’s what this is about.” See “Post Delisting, Wolf Controversy Continues.”

I agree with Mr. Bair. Nevertheless I am not in a position of empirical knowledge. I don’t know what is in the hearts of those who oppose the wolf hunts, or who are active in environmental lobbying, promotion, and debate. I am grateful for blogs and forums, where these issues can get discussed. This is one issue I will be watching.