WOLF CONSERVATION CENTER INC

In the short time since wolves were reintroduced to the American West, scientific research has confirmed that they have restored stability to ecosystems. Wolves were once federally protected, but now they can be hunted again, making their future more controversial than ever before. Although critically endangered subspecies of wolves remain federally protected, they also face unique challenges that impact their wild future. Despite the vast effort, resources and support invested in reintroduction, the future of the wolf and its proven benefits to ecosystems remains at risk.

In recognition of this crisis, the Wolf Conservation Center has become a catalyst for change among a new generation of stewards who can reverse this trend before it is too late. "Interdisciplinary Curriculum in Wolf Education: Tracks to the Future” partners with educators in the implementation of a unique unit of study that affords elementary and middle school students differentiated opportunities to learn and master many of the required common core academic standards in Language Arts, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies and the Arts while using the theme of wolf conservation as its integrating theme. It goals encourage students to pose and answer relevant questions about wolf recovery and conservation while they simultaneously acquire new knowledge, tools and the critical thinking skills that they will need as life-long learners, in general.

"Tracks to the Future” is an academically robust, relevant, and innovative "living curriculum.” It emphasizes cooperative learning, research and project-based learning, critical thinking and discussion, hands-on activities, and integrated service learning opportunities. Students develop and practice leadership skills by working in teams, listening to and accepting diverse opinions, solving problems, considering the long-term view, promoting actions that serve the greater good, and connecting with the community to make a difference.

While promoting broad academic achievement, Tracks to the Future has five guiding objectives: (1) nurturing an understanding of the critical role that the environment plays in human survival and the sustainability of the earth’s resources, (2) fostering an understanding of the scientific and cultural principles that guide wildlife conservation in America, (3) teaching the value of predators, specifically wolves, as ecosystem managers, (4) providing authentic opportunities for students to exercise citizenship and demonstrate their knowledge by educating others and advocating for positive changes in policies that affect wolves, and (5) increasing students’ awareness of the proactive role they can play in government to encourage change.

The WCC also participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Recovery Plan for the critically endangered Mexican gray wolf (Canis lupus baileyi). The Mexican gray wolf is among the rarest mammals in North America; at one time this species was completely extinct in the wild. Presently, there are approximately 400 Mexican gray wolves remaining in the world, the majority living in captivity within the network of facilities participating in the SSP.
Every one of these captive endangered wolves is a part of something bigger than their pack or the facilities that house them, they are integral parts of the recovery of their rare species. Many of these wolves contribute as "Ambassadors," living on view at a variety of zoos throughout the United States to help educate people about the importance of their wild counterparts. Some of these animals also contribute to the revitalization of their species as participants of the SSP captive breeding program. Gamete cryopreservation efforts allow even deceased wolves to contribute to wolf recovery via artificial insemination. The most fortunate fraction of captive wolves, however, contribute as candidates for release into the wild.

As the pre-eminent facility in the eastern United States for the captive breeding and pre-release of endangered wolf species, the WCC aims to become the National model in SSP standards and train other SSP’s to expand our mission impact and results.

The WCC participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Recovery Plan for the critically endangered red wolf (Canis rufus). The red wolf is among the rarest mammals in North America; the species at one time went completely extinct in the wild. Presently, there are approximately 300 red wolves remaining in the world, the majority living in captivity within the network of facilities participating in the SSP.

Every one of these captive endangered wolves is a part of something bigger than their pack or the facilities that house them, they are integral parts of the recovery of their rare species. Many of these wolves contribute as "Ambassadors," living on view at a variety of zoos throughout the United States to help educate people about the importance of their wild counterparts. Some of these animals also contribute to the revitalization of their species as participants of the SSP captive breeding program.

Gamete cryopreservation efforts allow even deceased wolves to contribute to wolf recovery via artificial insemination. The most fortunate fraction of captive wolves, however, contribute as candidates for release into the wild.
As the pre-eminent facility in the eastern United States for the captive breeding and pre-release of endangered wolf species, the WCC aims to become the National model in SSP standards and train other SSP’s to expand our mission impact and results.

WCC believes that every voice raised in support of wildlife and wild places can make a difference. And when we all work together we can make big things happen. In that vision, WCC urges our supporters in taking action via the Wolf Conservation Center's active advocate campaigns. Consistent, professional effort has resulted in over 2 million people following our work on Facebook or on our website where they are alerted to ways they can help save wolves locally and across North America. WCC also advocates through effectively communicating with their elected representatives, encouraging personal responsibility for improved human stewardship of our World.