ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The New Mexico Game and Fish Department has voted to pull out of the federal government's controversial Mexican gray wolf recovery project.
With four new members appointed by Gov. Susana Martinez, the board voted 6-0 Thursday to pull its participation from the project at the end of the month.
Former Governor Bill Richardson's administration supported the federal project, providing a handful of employees to assist in trapping, transplanting and collaring wolves. They also worked on projects aimed at reducing conflicts between the wolves and livestock.
The vote was a victory for ranchers, who have long complained about wolf attacks on their livestock.
The New Mexico State Game Commission has been a partner in the program since 1999.
About 50 Mexican wolves are spread over New Mexico and Arizona.
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