Panel at CWU Museum Weighs in on Wolves

Chances of spotting a wolf in the state of Washington are growing as the number of wolves and confirmed wolf packs rapidly increases, according to a 2012 survey by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Wolves play a critical role in promoting a healthy ecosystem. However, they also can cause trouble for cattlemen and for big game hunters.  Central Washington University?s Museum of Culture and Environment is sponsoring a panel discussion on the complicated issue of Washington wolves at 5:30 p.m. February 27 in Dean Hall. The panel will feature speakers with diverse viewpoints including Jay Kehne, an outreach associate with Conservation Northwest, Lee Davis, a local hunter and past president of Kittitas County Field and Stream, Scott Becker, a wolf biologist with the WDFW in Wenatchee, and Sam Kayser, Ellensburg rancher and president of the Kittitas County Cattlemen's Association.  Audience discussion will be encouraged during what is expected be a lively discussion. The event is held in conjunction with the museum?s exhibit Wolves in Washington State, which was organized by the Burke Museum, University of Washington, in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The museum is open 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. Parking is free on the CWU campus after 4:30 p.m. and on weekends. For more information, contact Museum@cwu.edu or call 509-963-2313.