However, supporters of this law argue that not only is this law necessary for the wolf population itself, for citizens who have been reportedly harassed by the growing number of wolves and that the state legislature acted in accordance to the constitution.

Patrick Kennedy is an alumnus who graduated Fall 2012 with a degree in Comparative Cultures and Politics and a specialization in Science, Technology, Environment and Public Policy. He grew up in Brimley, Mich. which is located in Chippewa County, one of the counties where wolves have been considered dangerous.

Kennedy said that although he lives in an area reportedly plagued with wolves, he does not consider them a problem.

“I have never seen a wolf personally. I have only seen coyotes. … I think its more a rights issue,” he said. “I would have to say I don’t think they should be game until it is shown without a doubt their numbers are far out of hand.”

Professor William Porter is MSU’s Boone and Crockett Chair of Wildlife Conservation in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife department at MSU. His chair position was established to bring a scientific perspective to environmental policy issues and he said he has been following this legislation closely.

Porter believes this debate has been fought emotionally from both sides.

“On the surface we have the issue thats been focused on wolves. Should we hunt wolves? Thats a philosophical issue and we debate philosophy on emotional grounds and not facts and logic how it actually is,” Porter said.

Porter understands it is difficult for the average voter, and for that reason he said these kinds of decisions should be made by experts and those who specifically manage wildlife, such as the Natural Resource Commision.

Porter argues that for that reason, not only is an efficient management system necessary for the survival of the wolves, it is needed for people as well.

“They are not in real jeopardy yet. But they could be,” he said. “If you give people no options when dealing with wolves, they will take things into their own hands.”

Porter and Kennedy share the belief that this is an issue every citizen of Michigan should care about.

“I think it important for MSU students in general to pay attention to natural resources and legislation that pertains to and affects all of us,” Kennedy said. “For MSU students especially because of our rich history in agriculture and nature.”