OLYMPIA - Big game managers from Washington, Idaho and Montana will discuss their experiences managing game animals in areas populated by wolves during a live webcast July 18.

The event will take place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. via the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's (WDFW) website ( http://wdfw.wa.gov/). Viewers will have an opportunity to provide questions via email at [email protected].

Montana and Idaho have been managing wolves longer than Washington and their experience can provide context to inform the department and citizens on how to confront the challenges that lie ahead, said Phil Anderson, WDFW director.

"We've been consulting with a number of experts, including our counterparts from other states, since wolves began to reappear in Washington to better prepare us for meeting the many challenges that come with having wolves back in the state," said Anderson, who will participate in the discussion. "This will give the public an opportunity to hear directly from those who have been involved in wolf management in other areas of the west."

Jon Rachel, Idaho Department of Fish and Game's state wildlife manager and Jim Williams, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks' northwest wildlife program manager will discuss the impacts wolves have had on deer, elk and other big game animals in their states. They will also discuss strategies that successful big game hunters have adopted while hunting in their states.

Dave Ware, WDFW statewide game program manager, will describe the status of wolves and big game hunting in Washington.

For those unable to view the live webcast on July 18, it will remain available from the department's webpage after the event.