John Motsinger, a Communications Associate at Defenders of Wildlife who handles press coverage for critters in the Northern Rockies as well as Defenders’ national work on coal ash and pesticides has provided the following information:
“Wolf settlement reached in Northern Rockies – Defenders of Wildlife and nine other conservation groups reached a settlement agreement with the Interior Department regarding wolf recovery and management in the Northern Rockies. The settlement was filed for approval with a U.S. Federal District Court in Montana.
Though not a perfect solution, this settlement allows wolf delisting in the two states with approved wolf management plans (Montana and Idaho) to move forward, while retaining protections for the most vulnerable wolves in the Northern Rockies. The settlement also offers a workable solution to the increasingly polarized debate over wolves without resorting to legislation that would be bad for wolves, the ESA and countless other species.
This agreement adopts a scientific approach – including monitoring of the status of wolves and independent scientific review – to ensure that states maintain healthy wolf populations. If approved, it will be up to the states to hold up their end of the bargain and manage wolves responsibly and sustainably as they do for other wildlife.”
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The Wolf Preservation Blog 
I am saddened by what appears to be a “sell out” by the big advocacy groups, though I’m trying to reserve judgement until ALL information is made available. Is this an attempt to stop all other pending litigation? Some Senators in the Western States have indicated that this settlement will not stop them from seeking additional delisting measures.
It will be interesting to see all the details revealed. I agree Marc; it can become very draining to fight tooth and nail in certain situations. The challenge is channeling our efforts/concentration into pro-active measures, educating those who will listen, and remember why we chose to advocate for wolves in the first place. You’re right Sindy; I have not doubt certain Senators, such as Ken Miller, who will take advantage of situations to kill any wolf. The anti-wolf statements he made will never be forgotten, I’ll make certain of that!
I too am terribly sadden by this legal maneuvering. Trying to withhold judgment. My energy is better used helping wolves then pointing the finger. As I become older I become more rigid. Especially when it comes to whats right and what wrong.
I can’t help but think there is more to the “deal” than has been revealed to date. Is it a compromise to stop the 6 remaining anti-wolf Bills in Congress? I don’t know either….