We sit down with Tom Gable of the Voyageurs Wolf Project for a straight-up, science-driven conversation about wolves, deer, and what’s really happening in Northern Minnesota.

Tom breaks down their new three-year deer survival study—59 deer collared and counting—as researchers dig into winter severity, predation, logging practices, and habitat changes. The big takeaway? It’s not just about wolves. Habitat—especially thermal cover and forest age—may be the real key to healthy deer populations.

We talk shortened logging rotations, the loss of conifer cover, fire suppression, predator-prey dynamics, and why managing deer resilience might matter more than managing predators. We also get into public opinion, wolf policy, trail camera research, and the challenges of navigating science in today’s online world.

If you care about deer, wolves, forestry, or the future of wildlife management in Minnesota, this is a must-listen episode.

BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com)

Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

FirstCall For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net)

MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)