DNR Statement on Chippewa Spike Elk Harvest
Statement from Kurt Thiede, Division Administrator of Lands
The department has been informed that a spike bull elk was harvested last week in northern Wisconsin by members of the Chippewa tribes. Our position has not changed, we do not condone nor agree with how the Chippewa tribes unilaterally proceeded to carry out this harvest without consultation. Their decision to proceed leaves us with deep concern and disappointment.
As the department stated earlier this week in a letter to the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission we are troubled by the lack of consultation and communication on this ceremonial elk harvest. This action is a setback for the State-Tribal relationship and partnership on elk that has been steadily improving over the years. We currently have no agreement on elk, and now with the tribes stepping outside of the agreed upon stipulation process, it makes discussions on elk and a host of other issues more difficult. It is truly a lost opportunity to continue to demonstrate cooperation and shared purpose with the Tribes now that they have carried out this hunt. Considering the potential safety concerns that we raised, we are pleased that the tribal harvest took place safely and without incident.