FERRY COUNTY, WA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is considering the lethal removal of one or more wolves from the Togo Pack following a series of depredation incidents in northeast Washington.

According to a WDFW update released July 25, officials have investigated three livestock depredation events—two confirmed and one probable—within a 30-day span in the Togo Pack’s range. The incidents resulted in the deaths of two calves and injury to a third, all belonging to separate livestock producers.

WDFW field staff responded to reports on July 11, July 16, and July 24. In each case, physical evidence was consistent with wolf attacks. The third incident, while not definitively confirmed, was deemed probable based on the scene.

Non-lethal deterrents have been in place in the area, including near-daily range riding, increased human presence, and removal of sick or dead livestock. Despite these efforts, WDFW reports continued depredations and says no further reactive non-lethal measures are deemed appropriate due to the scale of grazing allotments and current management efforts.

The agency’s district team is currently preparing a recommendation for WDFW leadership, who will determine whether to authorize lethal removal in the coming days.

More information about the Togo Pack can be found on the WDFW website: wdfw.wa.gov.