VERONA, Wis. – The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) is proud to announce the appointment of WCA member Bob Mitchell to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wolf Advisory Committee. This appointment reflects the state’s recognition of the critical role that livestock producers play in shaping practical, science-based wolf management policies.
Bob Mitchell, a beef producer from Crawford County, will represent agricultural and ranching interests on the advisory committee. Mitchell operates Spring Creek Cattle Company with his family near Boscobel, where they manage a purebred seedstock operation and manage pastures in multiple southwestern Wisconsin counties. A fourth-generation cattleman, Mitchell brings decades of experience in production agriculture and a deep understanding of the real-world impact of wolf-livestock conflicts on farmers and rural communities.
“I have spent significant time speaking with farmers across Wisconsin who face the challenges of managing wolf conflicts while trying to preserve their way of life,” Mitchell said. “I look forward to bringing a cattlemen’s perspective to the discussion, as well as representing the interests of other livestock producers and rural communities. I realize this is a sensitive issue and look forward to the challenge of finding common ground with the various stakeholders.”
Mitchell added he believes Wisconsin can sustain a healthy wolf population while also supporting farmers who need help managing and mitigating conflicts. He is committed to a balanced approach that reflects both wildlife conservation goals and the needs of rural communities.
The DNR’s Wolf Advisory Committee was created to bring together diverse stakeholders to help guide the implementation of Wisconsin’s 2023 Wolf Management Plan. The Committee includes
representatives from agriculture, conservation, tribal nations, wildlife management, and other interest groups. While the committee is advisory in nature, it plays a vital role in shaping the state’s approach to balancing ecological, legal, and human needs. Mitchell was selected to fill one of two seats reserved for the agricultural and ranching sector.
“Wisconsin beef producers have long needed a voice at the table when it comes to wolf management,” WCA President Tressa Lacy said. “Bob’s appointment ensures that the economic and emotional toll of wolf predation on livestock will be part of these critical discussions.”
The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association thanks the Department of Natural Resources for recognizing the importance of agricultural representation and looks forward to working collaboratively to address the complex challenges of wolf conservation and rural land use.
Comments