Taking Swift Action: Hunting Problem Wolves in Salzburg

Salzburg Implements New Regulations to Address Problem Wolves

In an effort to tackle the issue of problem wolves in the Pinzgau and Rußbach regions, the state of Salzburg has announced the implementation of two new regulations. These measures, confirmed in a recent broadcast, aim to hunt down the problem wolves and protect local farmers and their livestock. However, the state government believes that more needs to be done to address the problem effectively.

One of the key concerns is the speed at which action can be taken when a problem wolf is identified. These animals can migrate up to 70 kilometers a day, making it crucial to act swiftly. To address this, the state government has introduced ordinances as an immediate measure, which can come into force immediately after a short assessment period. However, the government acknowledges that even this process takes at least seven days, causing frustration among farmers. The goal is to find ways to act even faster in the future.

Salzburg’s measures also include the designation of zones where herd protection is not possible. These areas, which cannot be protected by traditional means such as fences, would allow for the hunting of problem wolves legally. Additionally, the state government is considering lowering the protection status of the wolf in collaboration with other regions, such as within the framework of ARGE Alp. This long-term approach aims to find sustainable solutions to the issue.

Hubert Stock, the country’s wolf commissioner, sees the return of the wolf to large parts of Europe as a positive development. Despite the challenges it poses, Stock believes that the species is no longer endangered. He suggests that collaboration with other regions could lead to a lower protection status for the wolf. However, he acknowledges that this process will take time, and in the meantime, Salzburg must find its own solutions.

The definition of non-protectable areas has proven successful in other regions, such as Tyrol and Bavaria. Salzburg plans to use similar parameters to determine these zones, taking into account the unique topography of the high alpine area. For example, erecting fences is generally impossible in these areas. Stock also highlights that Switzerland, often cited as an example, only provides subsidies for shepherding and livestock protection dogs for herds of 500 sheep or more. Salzburg’s different ownership structure requires tailored solutions.

Marlene Svazek, LH-Stv., outlines the immediate next steps in addressing the problem wolves. The assessment period for the two ordinances in Pinzgau and Rußbach will end next week, and if everything goes as planned, the two problem wolves can be hunted from Thursday onwards.

The state of Salzburg is taking proactive measures to address the issue of problem wolves, aiming to protect farmers and their livestock. By implementing new regulations and exploring long-term solutions, the government hopes to find a balance between conservation and the needs of the local community.

(Source: SALZBURG24)

How does the government plan to identify problem wolf activity and implement necessary actions to minimize their impact on local farmers?

A greater level of monitoring and control over problem wolf activity. The government will work closely with local farmers to identify these zones and implement necessary actions to minimize the impact of problem wolves.

Furthermore, the state government is exploring the possibility of using GPS tracking technology to monitor the movements of problem wolves. By equipping wolves with GPS collars, authorities can closely track their activities and intervene when necessary. This technology would provide real-time data and enable quick response times to potential conflicts between wolves and local livestock.

Additionally, Salzburg is collaborating with neighboring regions and countries to develop a coordinated approach to dealing with problem wolves across borders. Wolves do not adhere to political boundaries, and therefore, it is crucial for all regions to work together in addressing this issue effectively. By sharing resources and knowledge, Salzburg aims to better protect its farmers and ensure the coexistence of wolves and humans.

While these new regulations and measures are steps in the right direction, the state government acknowledges that further efforts are required. It intends to continue to engage in dialogue with stakeholders, including farmers and environmental groups, to find sustainable solutions that balance the conservation of wolves with the protection of local livelihoods.

In conclusion, Salzburg is taking proactive steps to address the issue of problem wolves in the Pinzgau and Rußbach regions. By implementing new regulations, exploring advanced monitoring technologies, and fostering regional cooperation, the state government aims to better protect farmers and their livestock while ensuring the long-term viability of wolf populations.