Late last week, a King County Superior Court Commissioner denied a motion for a temporary injunction that would have prohibited the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife from killing wolves in the Old Profanity Territory pack.  Because of Thursday’s decision, the Department can remove wolves from the OPT pack as authorized July 31st by WDFW Director Kelly Susewind.

 

Although it is not currently named as a petitioner, the Maryland-based Center for a Humane Economy has taken credit for seeking the injunction.  The King County Superior Court Commissioner said the petitioners had not met the criteria for temporary injunctive relief.  The court will hold a preliminary injunction hearing on August 16th.

 

WDFW will provide the court with a status update on any additional depredations, wolf removals, and the producer's efforts to deter livestock depredations before the hearing.  Susewind authorized removal of wolves from the OPT pack in Ferry County due to the pack’s involvement in 27 confirmed livestock depredations since September.

 

 

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