Those who want wolves to come back seem to think that all ranchers and other wolf opponents are money-grubbing, uneducated fools, while those who oppose wolves think that all in favor of their return are anti-development nut cases who would have us all living in mud huts while allowing family pets to be eaten by these bloodthirsty creatures.

Neither of these views is true. Those who favor the restoration of wolves need to recognize the concerns of ranchers and find a way to address them. Those opposed need to let go of the myths that have been spread about these animals, realize people want them back for legitimate reasons, and be willing to compromise.

Both sides need to let go of the rhetoric and treat those who disagree with them as rational human beings. Maybe then both sides will start behaving according to rational expectations.

Bethany Stackhouse

Salt Lake City