Wisconsin DNR Removes Nine Wolves in Price County

Officials removed the pack following six verified human safety conflicts in the area between 2025 and 2026.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Wildlife

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a dark, geometric forest canopy from above, evoking the management of wildlife safety.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources removed nine wolves in Price County after verifying six human safety conflicts since 2025. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should the state implement a regulated wolf hunt to ensure public safety in your area?

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has removed nine wolves in Price County following a series of verified human safety conflicts. This action follows the failure of nonlethal deterrents to manage the local pack.

Why it matters

The removal was prompted by six verified human safety conflicts occurring between July 2025 and August 2026. Wildlife officials determined that nonlethal management methods were ineffective and relocation was not feasible for this pack.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources removed nine wolves in Price County after recording six verified human safety conflicts. This action follows a 13-month period of monitoring where nonlethal deterrents proved unsuccessful.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for implementing wildlife management policies and public safety protocols.

Wisconsin Bear Hunters' Association

An advocacy group currently seeking the reinstatement of a regulated wolf hunting season in the state.

The details

Wildlife managers removed the wolves after determining that nonlethal deterrents failed to mitigate the risks to residents. Officials evaluated relocation as a management option but deemed it not feasible for these animals given the established pattern of human safety conflicts. The removal serves as a direct response to the specific safety incidents documented in the county.

Timeline

  1. July 2025 - August 2026: Six verified human safety conflicts occurred.

The Home Front

This removal follows the protocols outlined in the state's established wildlife management framework. It highlights the tension between maintaining balanced predator populations and ensuring safety in rural residential areas.

Residents in Price County should maintain awareness of local wildlife activity and report any aggressive animal behavior to state authorities. Homeowners are encouraged to review recommended deterrent strategies for their property to minimize attractants.

The takeaway

Effective wildlife management requires balancing ecological stability with the immediate safety needs of families living in rural areas. Residents should keep records of any unusual animal sightings to assist authorities in monitoring regional population behavior.

Further reading

Learn more about local wildlife safety and management efforts on our Wildlife page.

Source note: This article includes information reported by WWIS Radio.

Live Poll

Should the state implement a regulated wolf hunt to ensure public safety in your area?