SACRAMENTO – In response to widespread concerns from farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, the California Fish and Game Commission has referred the controversial coyote reclassification proposal back to the Wildlife Resources Committee for further review. Assemblywoman Hadwick (R-Alturas) and Senator Megan Dahle (R-Bieber) had strongly opposed the initial recommendation in a letter, citing its potential to restrict rural agricultural communities’ ability to manage coyote populations effectively.
The proposal, which was initially advanced on January 15th without sufficient public notice, sparked significant backlash due to its lack of transparency and failure to include input from affected communities. Hadwick and Dahle raised concerns about the potential consequences of limiting predator management, emphasizing the risks exposed to livestock, pets, and public safety in rural and agricultural areas.
“The decision to pushforward with this change without consulting those directly impacted was irresponsible,” said Assemblywoman Hadwick. “I’m pleased that the issue has been referred back to committee, where it can receive the full, transparent review that our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities deserve.”
Coyotes pose a significant threat to livestock, causing economic hardship for agricultural producers and contributing to rising food prices. With the issue now back in committee, Hadwick and Dahle are urging the Commission to ensure a thorough review process that includes input from those most affected. They remain committed to advocating for responsible wildlife management policies that protect both rural livelihoods and public safety.
Assemblywoman Hadwick represents the 1st Assembly District, which includes portions of El Dorado and Placer counties, along with Alpine, Amador, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou counties.