This following letter appeared Dec. 14 in the online version of the Missoulian. It’s a witty, sarcastic and sad commentary on the impact wolves are having on the ecological and social landscape in the northern Rocky Mountains. Urban-dwelling anti-hunters can romanticize about wolves, but, as this letter shows, the people who live in the backcountry of Montana, Idaho and Wyoming actually have to deal with them.

For sale: One elk-hunting cabin in the East Fork of the Bitterroots. Cabin has been used successfully during hunting seasons for over 50 years by scores of Montana families. Cabin includes large meat-hanging crossbeam which has served well in the past years. This beam hasn’t been used for several years.

This rustic cabin is situated in the Billie Springer Memorial Park, which is a community comprised of Armed Service veterans. Until recently, this area was prime for big game hunting and was very popular during the fall months, September through December. While the number of huntable animals has dropped off, the cabin would be an ideal base for those interested in observing wolves (Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Defenders of Wildlife; tribal moose harvesters; the U.S. Forest Service et al). Proceeds from sale will go to local food banks.

Mark Stergios,

Missoula