The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97B.645, subdivision 9, to establish an annual open season for wolves. It removes the previous prohibition on open seasons until wolves are delisted from the Endangered Species Act and instead mandates that the commissioner must prescribe an annual open season for wolves unless they are listed under the Act. The new language emphasizes that the season, restrictions, and requirements must align with the goals outlined in the wolf management plan.

Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner to consult annually with the commissioner of agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service before determining the specifics of the open season. This consultation will involve reviewing data on wolf-related depredation of livestock and pets, as well as other human-wolf conflict incidents, ensuring that management decisions are informed by relevant data.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97B.645