Wolf depredation bill passes House chamber
By Griffin Beach on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
SALEM – Senate Bill 777, which changes the way funds are awarded for wolf depredation compensation, passed the House chamber Tuesday and is now on its way to the Governor’s desk.
Rep. Bobby Levy (R-Echo) was a chief sponsor of the bill. Speaking on the House floor she asked her colleagues to think of those in the states agriculture industry.
“These (ranching) families are not asking for wolves to be wiped out, they’re asking for a system that acknowledge the burden they carry and helps them survive,” she said.
Sen. Todd Nash (R-Enterprise) was the bills other chief sponsor and released a statement thanking everyone who helped make this bill a reality.
“A special thanks to the ranchers, county commissioners and agricultural groups that have helped on the compensation issue for years. As well as to those that suffered financial and emotional hardships, yet still participated in a process that didn’t come close to fully compensating them. We owe a huge thanks. Although SB 777 A will never cover all the losses suffered by livestock owners, it’s a huge step forward. I’m so appreciative of everyone that made this day possible.,” said Nash.
Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) was one of seven representatives besides Levy who spoke in favor of the bill on the floor. He acknowledged that for many of his colleagues it was a difficult vote, and that he commended them for reaching across the aisle.
The bill changes the way livestock producers are compensated for wolf depredation, basing it on fair market value among other factors. The bill passed on a 44-12 vote with three excused. It passed the Senate chamber on a 28-1 vote.
