Gray wolves used to be common throughout most of Washington and then they declined significantly between 1850 and 1900. Wolves were classified as endangered in Washington under federal law in 1973 and under state law in 1980. With State and Federal protection, wolves have returned on their own from neighboring states and provinces. Statewide Wolf Specialist Ben Maletzke will present information on the ecology and status of wolves in Washington at the “Community Talks” December 19th program at the Upper Kittitas County Senior Center at 4:00pm. Listen to Maletzke talk about wolves steadily recolonizing the northwest and working their way south down the Cascades into central Washington. A local of Upper Kittitas County, Maletzke works as a Wildlife Biologist with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and serves as the Statewide Wolf Specialist. He has conducted research and management on a variety of species including lynx, cougar, black bear and wolves for over 20 years.

The Upper Kittitas County Senior Center is hosting Maletzke for the December “Community Talks” free monthly program. Community Talks is designed to offer intergenerational, educational, cultural and social activities and presentations for all ages (youth with adult) and is open to the community. Community talks are the third Tuesday of each month at 4:00pm at the Centennial Center, 719 E. Third St., Cle Elum. For more information: 509-674-7530 or email: centerdir23@gmail.com.