More Idaho Wolf Guardians Needed

[We really need help from more] volunteers to help on the [Sawtooth Valley] wolf project. We especially need adults who have experience camping and hiking and can commit to a minimum of two weekends or four consecutive days - and don't bring their dogs. 

So far this summer, the volunteers have successfully prevented several depredation incidents that would have caused the loss of the White Hawk pack and others. See the letter below from one of our volunteers. We expect to continue the project through the next month. I cannot check email from the field but am checking phone messages daily. I'm checking emails every few days. Those interested in volunteering can also contact Sheri at the Nez Perce tribe office at (208) 634-1061 if they have difficulty reaching me.

Thanks for any help you can offer!

Suzanne Laverty (208) 424-9385
Northwest Field Representative
Defenders of Wildlife

     Sun streaked mountain peaks poking through billowy clouds....meadows of sage, sego lilies, and buckwheat spreading like a colorful quilt between the erect, majestic pines. What a glorious sight to awaken to each morning. For the lover of the outdoors, this setting in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area is, indeed, a favored vacation destination. For the guardian of the wolf, this could very well be the ultimate location in which to actively contribute in implementing the ideals of wolf recovery and reintroduction programs.

     As a volunteer Wolf Guardian who just returned from Idaho, I need to express what a rewarding opportunity this has been. I was part of a team of five who answered the call from Defenders for volunteers to act as buffers (figuratively!) between several wolf packs (most notably the famous Whitehawk Pack) and sheep...and even some cattle...grazing on land that was perilously close to or within wolf domain.

     The "work" was extremely gratifying as we realized we were making a positive impact, not only in protecting the lives of the  wolves, but also in establishing better community relations among those who often oppose us in these efforts.

     A volunteer doesn't need to be a biologist or experienced tracker...those jobs are left to professionals.  Our team came from all walks of life and ages and experience levels. You just need care about wolves...and to enjoy a bit of camping (no cell phone service!) and some possible hiking ... simple gear is suggested. Even camp cooking is optional...thanks to a good, casual restaurant near the assigned areas. A coordinator gives you a task commensurate to your ability .. .and there is always an opportunity to learn as much as you wish. Those of our team that could extend their stay did so ... all made us feel so welcome. It was very hard to leave...especially since we were getting somewhere and learning so much.

     Thus, it is extremely critical that there is no gap in the progress that has been made. Immediate help is needed as new herds of sheep are soon to have their turn grazing in wolf habitats that could result in additional lethal action against the Whitehawk pack. Wolf guardians do make a difference. And the experience makes a positive difference in your life.

     Just as we have ambassador wolves who educate audiences and dispel the myths about canis lupus, we volunteers have a chance to be ambassadors to show our sincerity, devotion and willingness to work together to try to save the lives of the animals that mean so much to us and to environmental balance.

     I cannot wait to return!

Susan K. Kline, Wolf Guardian
Simi Valley, California
(and Staff Volunteer at the California Wolf Center, Julian, CA)