Counting on Volunteers to Count Wolves

Unlike most states, Wisconsin utilizes trained volunteers to conduct its annual wolf census, which has been performed every year since 1995. More than 200 trained volunteers canvas over 24,000 square miles (6.2 million hectares) during winter to collect tracking data that are used to determine wolf population trends and monitor pack sizes and locations. Their work has provided the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with some of the most-detailed annual wolf population data compiled by any state.

One of my favorite wolf tracking workshops that is held each year occurs at the Sandhill Outdoor Skills Center in central Wisconsin. This workshop is conducted annually by the Timber Wolf Information Network (TWIN) and is one of two training programs that all Wisconsin wolf census volunteers are strongly encouraged to take. It is one of the finest wolf tracking courses in the United States and offers participants a fascinating opportunity to track wild wolf packs in Wisconsin's central forest.

During the TWIN workshop, wolf researchers and volunteers teach the public about ecology and wolf behavior. Time is spent in the field tracking wolves and learning about pack territories and social structures. It's an intense introduction to the complexities of this species and an incredible experience to meet frontline volunteers who are in the field tracking wolves and collecting this important information.

I commend the Wisconsin DNR for its use of citizen volunteers in collecting these data. And we salute TWIN volunteers for teaching the public about wolves through these workshops and being engaged participants in the annual Wisconsin wolf census. It's a wonderful example of how public-private partnership can provide better data on population trends, while getting those of us who love wolves outdoors to experience the excitement of tracking these magnificent creatures.

I encourage all outdoor enthusiasts and wolf advocates to get involved as wildlife volunteers in their state, province, or country. Nothing is more gratifying than to be able experience wolves and other wildlife firsthand through volunteer opportunities like this.

Rob Schultz is executive director of the International Wolf Center, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that advances the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wild lands and the human role in their future. To learn more about the wolves and the Center's work, visit www.wolf.org