$2 Million Secured for California Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program in 2025 State Budget

SACRAMENTO — The 2025 California state budget has officially been signed, delivering a critical win for rural communities, farmers, and ranchers: $2 million in funding for the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program. Included in AB 102, this funding is now in effect under subdivision (e) of Section 12, Article IV of the California Constitution and will help support ranchers experiencing the escalating impacts of gray wolf depredation.

“This is a big deal for California ranchers, especially those in the North State who have experienced repeated livestock losses due to growing wolf activity,” said Assemblywoman Hadwick. “Initially, the budget included nothing—zero dollars—for the wolf crisis we are facing. But we knew that wasn’t acceptable, not when livelihoods and lives are on the line. We fought for this because our ranchers deserve real support in protecting their livelihoods.”

The allocation is provided through Item 3600-002-0001 of the 2025 Budget Act, directing $2 million through the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Biodiversity Conservation Program specifically for wolf depredation compensation.

While statewide numbers for July are still being finalized, early indicators suggest this month may break records for wolf depredation. In 2024, there were at least 60 confirmed kills statewide—nearly triple the number from 2023. Entire herds are being impacted, with losses from weight reduction, pregnancy loss, and stress- related effects. Monetarily, a UC Davis study found each wolf can cause between $69,000 and $162,000 in direct and indirect losses. Statewide, this equates to an estimated $1.4 to $3.4 million in annual losses to ranchers.

It’s widely believed that many depredations go unreported—whether due to time constraints, lack of familiarity with the process, or mistrust of government agencies. Assemblywoman Hadwick is encouraging ranchers to document and report all losses to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “We know, based on firsthand conversations, that more kills are happening than what’s being reported,” said Hadwick. “I understand that no one wants to deal with government red tape, but right now we need your help. Accurate data is the key to unlocking more funding, more resources, and real solutions to finally address this crisis.”

Assemblywoman Hadwick thanked the Assembly and Senate Budget committees for their diligent work constructing the budget, CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham, Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, and North State Sheriffs for their advocacy, and the California Farm Bureau.

“This win shows what’s possible when rural voices unite and fight for what’s fair,” Hadwick said. “But let me be clear—we are reaching a tipping point. If Sacramento doesn’t act soon to expand support for rural producers, we risk losing not just livestock, but entire generational ranching operations.”