Since their reintroduction, gray wolves have continued to spread over the Washington landscape, and a fierce debate has followed them.

Some ranchers and hunters vilify the predators, while many conservationists say they are a part of the natural landscape that needs to be protected.

The issue is so contentious that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife recently cancelled open-house style meetings with the public to discuss future management of the species. Activists on all sides of the issue were planning to use disruptive tactics at the meetings. The WDFW will now hold interactive online webinars instead.

Wolves will eventually move into Southwest Washington. WDFW wolf specialist Benjamin Maletzke reports there are areas in…