The effects of access restrictions and communication strategies for divisive environmental management

In 2018, the U.S. National Park Service announced a controversial plan to translocate 20−30 gray wolves (Canis lupus) Isle Royale increase genetic diversity and ultimately dwindling wolf population. Media were restricted physical access during translocations, citing safety concerns for management team, as well logistical challenges because of remoteness park. Given these restrictions, we used interviews quantitative analyses news stories press releases examine what communication strategies its partners deployed how restriction affected way outlets covered events. By identifying source groups, found government sources predominately featured with few other types included, that coverage heavily relied on release information. We discuss implications this strategy potential consequences restrictions when covering divisive events in remote locations.