Application and Evaluation of depredation avoidance techniques for reducing large carnivore-livestock conflicts in the Rocky Mountains

The project provides a field demonstration of promising on-the-ground methods and strategies aimed at reducing livestock losses to large predators. In particular, the expansion of wolves beyond protected areas represents a new challenge for ranching in the Rocky Mountain west. Several techniques for reducing livestock/predator conflicts have been suggested, yet none of these approaches have been rigorously tested and guidelines and specifications for their successful implementation are lacking. It is anticipated that this project will generate technical guidelines and specifications for successful cattle management in the presence of large carnivores that are currently absent.