California evaluating wolf-livestock compensation pilot program

California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) says it is “incredibly concerned” about the rise of livestock depredations following the growth and expansion of the state’s wolf population. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) released officials numbers this week, revealing that since August 2023, it has investigated 31 depredations and confirmed 18 cattle depredations across 16 incidents. Four lamb depredations were also reported in a single incident during the timeframe. CDFW says it will now finalize review of existing program applications and eligibility of livestock…