Crystal Brantley, a state senator for New Mexico District 35, said that the Mexican gray wolf recovery program poses real and ongoing threats to families, livestock, and livelihoods in rural communities. Brantley made this statement in a letter to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish on April 9.
"The people of Catron County, and rural New Mexicans more broadly, have long borne the brunt of decisions made without their consent or consideration," said Brantley, New Mexico State Senator. "Despite promises of minimal disruption, wolves are increasingly entering residential areas, threatening children, killing pets, and decimating livestock herds. Since its inception, the Mexican gray wolf recovery program has been repeatedly expanded and enforced with little regard for its devastating impact on ranchers, hunters, and families are rooted in the land. I strongly support the request by Representatives Terrazas, Jones, and Senator Ramos for a dedicated 30-minute public Q&A session."
In response to escalating threats from the Mexican gray wolf recovery program, Catron County officials have declared a public safety disaster due to attacks on livestock, pets, and the safety of rural families. Local leaders argue that the program has been expanded without adequate community input, disproportionately impacting ranchers and residents in rural New Mexico. They are now calling on the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to address these concerns publicly at the April 25, 2025, Game Commission meeting.
According to AP News, in 2024 there were 99 confirmed cases of Mexican gray wolves killing livestock in New Mexico and Arizona. Wildlife managers conducted 290 hazing operations to deter wolves from approaching rural homes and livestock. Despite these efforts, conflicts between wolves and ranchers persist. The Mexican gray wolf population in the southwestern U.S. reached at least 286 individuals in 2024, marking the ninth consecutive year of population growth. However, concerns remain about genetic diversity and the long-term viability of the species.
As per Vancouver is Awesome, ranchers in New Mexico and Arizona have opposed the reintroduction of Mexican gray wolves since the 1990s, arguing that predators threaten their livelihoods already strained by drought and rising costs. While some reimbursement programs exist, many SAY they fall short of addressing the daily risks. "For those of us on the ground, they’re a very real daily threat," said Tom Paterson, a rancher and president-elect of the New Mexico Cattle Growers' Association. He recounted wolves killing a steer just 100 yards from where his grandson plays.
According to her website, Senator Brantley is noted as being the first woman and Republican to represent New Mexico’s Senate District 35. She is a Las Cruces native, an NMSU graduate, and a rural advocate who serves on the Senate Finance Committee with a strong focus on agriculture, law enforcement, and small business support.
