Undersheriff Travis Mobley (left) deputized Justin Ewing with Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) Wildlife Services as a conflict investigator on Tuesday. The Rio Blanco County Board of Commissioners “recognizes the challenges posed by the introduction of wolves into our region and the potential impacts on our local livestock producers, wildlife and way of life,” according to a statement from the BoCC. While appreciative of Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s efforts, the county has partnered with Ewing so that producers can involve the Sheriff’s Office in depredation site visits. “This approach ensures that landowners retain control over their own response while also allowing them access to additional support if they so choose. Ewing can be reached at 970-319-0870 or the Sheriff’s Office at 970-878-9660. JARED HENDERSON PHOTO
