Editor:

The Oct. 29 article, "Controversy stalks Montana wolf hunt," referenced the common misconception that the current size of the Northern Yellowstone elk herd reflects the effect wolves have had on elk throughout the Northern Rockies.

Since 1995, when wolves were reintroduced into the Yellowstone National Park, the Northern Range has experienced severe drought, harsh winters and a significant increase in hunter pressure that decreased this elk herd more than any predator. The average elk hunter harvest since 1995 is double that prior to wolf reintroduction, with 70 percent of the elk killed being pregnant females, further adding to their decline. The reason behind these liberal hunting regulations was that there were too many elk in the Northern Range, according to wildlife officials. This herd is simply down to management objectives set by state and park officials.

Most other elk herds, however, are well above state objectives, in Montana and throughout the northern Rockies. According to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Montana elk population has increased dramatically since wolves were restored to Yellowstone, with overall numbers up more than 50 percent to around 150,000 (compared to about 500 wolves). Elk hunters here are harvesting more elk, their success rate has been increasing, and hunts in some areas are even being extended to reduce elk herds. We're fortunate to have abundant elk and wolves.

MIKE LEAHY, Bozeman, Mont.

Rocky Mountain Region Director

Defenders of Wildlife