Colorado ranchers compensated for wolf-related livestock losses, but may not last due to a budget crisis

Colorado ranchers are receiving nearly half a million dollars in compensation for livestock losses due to wolves.

Two ranchers in Grand County were approved for payments. Ranchers can receive up to $15,000 per animal from the state’s Wolf Depredation Compensation Fund.
The fund also covers secondary losses, such as stress-related issues in livestock.

However, the future of the program paying producers remains uncertain due to a state budget crisis.

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The trustees’ 2025 annual report, released June 18, cited a law enacted this year as the primary reason why the funds are projected to run out a year earlier than previously projected.
“Sometimes populations correct on their own. That seems to be what is happening here.”