Elk Foundation: Hunt wolves in Idaho, Mont., Wyo.

MISSOULA, Mont. — The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation says gray wolf populations in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming should be managed through state-regulated hunting.

The foundation's board of directors approved the policy Wednesday at a meeting in conjunction with the foundation's annual convention in Forth Worth, Texas.

"Wolf populations are well above recovery goals and federal protection is no longer justified. It's clear to us that wolves now can be sustainably managed like bears, cougars and other restored predators," said David Allen, Elk Foundation president and CEO.

Allen said the Elk Foundation is interested in wolf management because of the impact of wolves on elk herds, elk hunting success, livestock, landowners and rural economies.