Drenthe mayors request managed wolf policy from Dutch government

Ten out of twelve mayors in the Drenthe region of the Netherlands have submitted a joint letter to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature, requesting a fundamental shift in wolf management policy.

The mayors argue that the current approach, which allows wolves to move freely across the landscape, places an undue burden on residents, farmers, and other users of the environment. They cite increasing concerns regarding safety, damage to livestock, and the emotional impact on the community, particularly following incidents involving wolves in built-up areas.

The proposed solution involves transitioning from a policy of free movement to one of managed wolf populations. Under this model, wolves would only have free rein within designated natural areas. Outside of these specific zones, the mayors suggest that management measures, including culling if necessary, should be implemented to protect people, livestock, agriculture, and the cultural landscape.