Yellowstone Wolves Helping Re-populate Forest

I spent years living in the mountains in Estes Park, Glen Haven, Allensparkand other rural areas.

These life experiences gave me a great appreciation for wildlife and the balance in the wilderness.



That’s why I found this story from AP interesting. A new study that is out says that the growth of the Yellowstone wolf population is actually spurring growth of trees in the forests of the park.

Huffington Post – AP

Scientists say in a new study that the return of gray wolves has dramatically altered the landscape in portions of Yellowstone National Park by curbing foraging elk herds that prevented new aspen, willow and cottonwood trees from taking root.

Study author William Ripple from Oregon State University said tree stands are expanding in areas where for decades dense elk populations prevented new growth.