Ranchers, students, and local leaders gathered in Butte County on April 9 to address the growing challenges posed by the expanding population of gray wolves in California. The meeting, organized by researchers from California State University and University of California Cooperative Extension, focused on the effects that wolves have had on livestock operations and rural communities.
The issue has become significant for many rural areas as ranchers report financial losses and increased stress due to wolf predation. According to Kyle Daley, a rancher and president of the Butte County Cattlemen’s Association, “As wolves continue to expand throughout the state, the impact on cattle operations increases. With pride we sponsor this event to create a space where stories about economic impact, public safety implications, and realities of ranching with wolves are shared.”
Panelists at the event included Paul Roen, manager of Sierra Valley Ranch; Mike Fisher, Sierra County sheriff; and Tina Saitone from UC Davis Cooperative Extension. They discussed management strategies for living alongside wolves and described both direct losses—such as killed cattle—and indirect costs like decreased reproduction rates or lower weaning weights among livestock. Roen said: “It is essential that we continue communicating about how wolves are affecting ranchers—economically and mentally—and because of the injustice of receiving limited restitution. We do not have enough tools to protect livestock or prevent wolves from becoming habituated.” He added that during summer 2025 he worked nights with wildlife officials trying to deter wolf attacks but called for more options and support.
Fisher spoke about witnessing firsthand “the stress and tension” experienced by local families facing daily cattle deaths last summer. Saitone said: “Ranchers in California are suffering a real economic burden as wolf populations expand across the state… It is fundamental to have an honest conversation about coexistence.” Kasey DeAtley from Chico State noted: “I am grateful for opportunities like these—with current information, expert ranchers, and open dialogue—which are invaluable for preparing students for future careers.”
The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) supports such educational outreach through its Cooperative Extension services operating in all 58 counties according to its official website. UC ANR secures funding through public contributions according to its official website while promoting sustainable practices designed to strengthen ecosystems and economic vitality according to its official website. The organization utilizes nine research centers representing diverse ecosystems across California according to its official website, conducts over 33,800 educational events annually with more than 18,400 volunteers involved according to its official website, extends university research through science-based programs supporting environmental stewardship according to its official website, and has gained recognition for linking research directly with community needs according to its official website.
Looking ahead, participants emphasized continued dialogue between students, legislators, producers, scientists—and expanded efforts—to address coexistence between agriculture interests and protected wildlife.
