By Jamie Martin
The expansion of gray and Mexican gray wolves in the U.S. is viewed as a conservation success, but it brings new challenges to ranching families.
A recent University of Arizona study shows how wolf presence causes serious financial losses for cattle operations.
Wolves can directly attack livestock, particularly young calves. A loss of just 2% of calves can reduce a 367-head ranch's income by 4%, or $5,195. If losses rise to 14%, that number jumps to over $42,000.
The death of breeding cows leads to long-term losses from fewer calves and reduced herd stability. The average cost of losing a single cow is $2,673.
Beyond direct depredation, wolf presence causes indirect stress among cattle, reducing their ability to graze and gain weight.
Calves often wean lighter, decreasing their market value. A 3.5% weight loss across a herd can cost a ranch $3,738, while a 10% loss can exceed $10,600.
Ranchers also face increased management costs. They use fencing, GPS collars, and hire extra labor to prevent attacks. These measures cost about $79 per cow each year. Across the nation, these costs total over $60 million annually.
“The Regional Transportation Cost Payment Program is a real lifeline for producers, helping cover the extra transportation costs that can add up fast,” said Marcinda Kester, FSA State Executive Director in Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Even with federal compensation programs, many losses go unpaid. Ranchers must locate carcasses quickly and meet strict rules, which is often difficult.
Only 75% of the animal’s value is reimbursed, excluding related costs like weight loss, labor, and herd disruption.
Over time, these effects build up. The study estimated that long-term wolf impacts could cut a ranch’s value by 45%.
Many ranchers say they’re left with the burden of policies shaped far from their land, threatening the future of multigenerational operations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: National