An Idaho rancher lives with his cattle in wolf country. Can Colorado ranchers do the same?

Coexisting with Wolves: A Rancher's Story

An Idaho rancher's experience with wolves may offer insights for Colorado ranchers.

Glenn Elzinga operates Alderspring Ranch in May, Idaho, a 46,000-acre rangeland with 300 to 400 cattle.

After wolves were reintroduced in Idaho in 1995, Elzinga and his wife lost livestock, considering leaving the industry.

Instead, inspired by Charles Marion Russell, Elzinga began riding with his cattle, guiding their movements, and protecting them from wolves.

Halle Zander of Aspen Public Radio spoke with Elzinga about his strategy.

Glenn Elzinga: We were totally pissed. We weren’t profitable at that time.

Elzinga's approach: riding alongside cattle, guiding movements, and protecting them from wolf attacks.
Colorado ranchers may learn from Elzinga's experience, as wolves were reintroduced in the state in 2023.

Author's summary: Idaho rancher shares wolf coexistence strategy.

Aspen Public Radio — 2025-11-04