The Oregon House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding livestock depredation caused by wolves and the proposed Senate Bill 777, aimed at enhancing compensation for affected ranchers.

Commissioner Christina Witham of Baker County opened the meeting, emphasizing the increasing challenges faced by livestock owners as grazing allotments are now being utilized. She expressed concern over the rising wolf population and its detrimental impact on ranchers' profits. Witham advocated for Senate Bill 777, highlighting that the current compensation rates do not adequately cover the extensive costs incurred by ranchers due to wolf attacks, which include not only the loss of animals but also associated labor and equipment expenses.

Following Witham, rancher Chris Cunningham from Wallowa County shared his personal experiences with wolf depredation, noting a shift in his perspective towards non-lethal methods of managing wolf interactions. He underscored the necessity of funding for these methods and supported the proposed compensation multiplier, stressing the urgency for legislative action to address the ongoing struggles of ranchers.

Lauren Kenzie, representing the Oregon Farm Bureau, also voiced strong support for Senate Bill 777. She acknowledged the real and significant impact of predator depredation on farmers and ranchers, reiterating the importance of providing financial relief and promoting coexistence with wildlife.

The committee members listened attentively to the testimonies, which underscored the emotional and financial toll that wolf depredation takes on the agricultural community. The discussions highlighted a collective call for legislative support to ensure the sustainability of both livestock operations and wildlife management in Oregon.

As the meeting concluded, the committee expressed gratitude to all participants for their contributions, signaling a commitment to furthering the conversation on this pressing issue. The next steps will involve deliberation on the proposed bill and its potential implications for ranchers and wildlife management in the state.