California reinstates wildlife coexistence initiative as wolf pup numbers hit record high

Governor Gavin Newsom approved Senate Bill 1135, which reestablishes the Wildlife Coexistence Program and adds compensation for ranchers whose cattle are killed or harmed by wolves. The legislation also allocates money for nonlethal tools like flagged electric fences to keep predators at bay. The move follows a historic increase in wolf reproduction, with at least 42 pups recorded, the highest count in state history.

Ranchers and wildlife groups have expressed mixed reactions, with the California Cattlemen’s Assn. and California Farm Bureau adopting a neutral stance after amendments. While the program promises expanded staff and resources, the allocated budget of $6 million, including $2.5 million for compensation, falls short of the $18 million and $15 million annual requests from conservation advocates.