there is no doubt that wolves have affected elk numbers in certain areas. the east and west fork of the bitterroot are good examples, as is the gardiner herd in the park. But in many areas the elk simply stay on private ground because they don't get hunting preasure. And what is on those private fields? Green, irrigated alfalfa long into the late fall. When everything else is dry and brown these fields are still green. Back east I think they call these a food plot. The quality of most elk hunters has sadly declined as well. Many are lazy and won't get away from the truck. They sit and look at elk on private ground, hoping the elk will leave and they can drive to them. They are usually back home for dinner an hour before dark. Then they wonder why they didn't get one.
