People who disagree seem to get angrier easier these days. When it comes to talking about large predators, like wolves, such disagreements can make it very difficult for federal and state agencies to manage the animals. Francine Madden is a specialist who has been called in to mediate these difficult conversations. She did such a good job in Washington state that she’s leading a national conversation on wolves. So far, she’s talked to hundreds of people with different views, from livestock owners to wolf advocates. Her next step is to choose a core group and focus on resolutions to America’s divided views about wolves. Her paycheck is being signed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, led by former Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Martha Williams. Williams is hoping the discussion can help the federal agency move away from a revolving door of lawsuits. To learn more about the issue, check out my story at https://billingsgazette.com/outdoors/.

Written by Brett French | Outdoors Editor for Billings Gazette