Conservation of Bison and Elk
Bison herd size should not be limited until further scientific studies with regard to natural grazing patterns,
habitat and forage, including access to historic migration corridors and large core habitats, are conducted. The
Jackson herd was founded by less than 20 individuals and is geographically isolated, with some migration of
Yellowstone bison to increase the genetic pool. This situation is compounded by the fact that bison in North
America experienced a genetic bottleneck with their near extinction in the late 1800’s. Extensive studies
regarding the genetic variability and integrity of the Jackson bison must be conducted to ensure that the long
term evolutionary potential of this herd is protected.

Several methods of population control are suggested. However, these programs are not acceptable until scien-
tific studies outlined above are completed and available to the public in this planning process. In the interim, the
population should be subject to natural selection pressures and environmental factors.
* If hunting is to be considered, then the government should consult with tribes who have historic, cultural and
religious ties to the Jackson bison herd.
* Lethal removal of bison by government officials is absolutely unacceptable and unnecessary.
* Immuno-contraception is an artificial means of selection and interferes with the natural physiology and
breeding cycles of bison.

Natural regulation of the elk herd should have the lead role in population control.Elk herd size should be
determined by natural selection pressures and environmental factors.Immuno-contraception is also suggested
for elk and it is unacceptable for the same reasons outlined for bison.

Recreational opportunities related to bison and elk
The elk herd on the refuge are recognized as valuable to the community of Jackson and the people of Wyoming.
Bison are just as valuable for drawing visitors to the state.Wild bison are an historic symbol for Americans,
and people around the world. Tourism is a mainstay of the economy in Wyoming.Montana has learned the
hard way that citizens do not want bison being killed and will vote with their pocket books.

Additional issues which should be included in the planning process
There was no mention of social and cultural issues related to elk and bison.Bison are significant to native
cultures and the American people.These values need to be recognized and addressed in the pre-scoping phase.

Additional interested parties, groups,
or government agencies which should be involved in this process
Not included are the numerous Native American tribes who are concerned about the bison and their future.

Tribal governments and organizations need to be contacted and invited to participate as equal partners and
sovereign nations in the planning process.

Prepared by

Darrell Geist z@wildrockies.org
Cold Mountain,Cold Rivers
POBox 7941 MissoulaMT 59807
406-728-0867 phone
406-327-1209 fax
cmcr@wildrockies.org
www.wildrockies.org/cmcr

Flo Gardipeefgardipee@hotmail.com
The BisonEcology Project
The Ecology Center801 Sherwood
Missoula MT59802
406-728-5733phone406-728-9432 fax
ecocenter@wildrockies.org
www.wildrockies.org/TECI