The state Board of Game voted late Friday to eliminate the buffer zone on state land along the eastern boundary of Denali National park. The buffer has been in place to prevent hunting and trapping of wolves that range outside park protection. The board also placed a moratorium on any new proposals on buffer zones there for 6 years. The decision stunned Alaskans who favor protection of the wolves and was a big disappointment to Denali park officials. Chris Fister is a park spokeswoman. She says NPS for the first time submitted their own proposal seeking an expansion of the buffer zone.
Lori Townsend, APRN – Anchorage
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