The
nature of wolf management is such that consistency
and reliability in approving and carrying
out actions are of paramount importance.
The high potential for controversy
reflects the emotional significance that
is attached to wolf reintroduction and recovery
– the human dimension. The margin
for error in managing wolves is small, thus
it is crucial to follow an established protocol.
The
purpose of the Project’s Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs) is to delineate
that protocol, regardless of which Interagency
Field Team or Adaptive Management Oversight
Committee members are involved. The SOPs
listed in the Table of Contents (SOP
0.0) include those that have
been identified since 1998 as vitally important
to ensuring consistent and reliable Project
operations. The current versions of these
SOPs are available below. They provide
greater certainty for the agencies and the
public as to how decisions will be made
and implemented. They also allow for flexibility
where circumstances require
it. However, the SOPs also set sidebars
on flexibility by identifying how to approve
significant departures or exceptions from
the procedures outlined. Over time, new
SOPs will likely be added, and the existing
ones will be revised, as necessary, to address
any significant issues that emerge.
