Montana Governor Offers Historic Gift of More Than 300,000 Acres for Yellowstone Bison

Statement by Stephanie Adams, Yellowstone Program Manager for National Parks Conservation Association:

“Today, following significant public input over the last three years, Montana Governor Steve Bullock proposed a new way forward for bison conservation in Montana. If partner agencies support the Governor’s concept, in the summer of 2016, for the first time in more than a century, Yellowstone bison will be allowed room to roam on conflict-free habitat adjacent to Yellowstone National Park in Montana.”

“As the National Park Service 2016 centennial year begins just days from now, today’s announcement represents an incredible gift by Governor Bullock to Yellowstone, our first national park.”

“National Parks Conservation Association has been among thousands of individuals and organizations that have long-called for this commonsense move by the state of Montana, which will open up more than 330,000 acres of public lands on the park’s western and northern boundaries. While additional review of today’s announcement is required, along with final approval of the proposal by Montana’s bison management partners, including the National Park Service, we are thrilled by this tremendous step forward.”

“National Parks Conservation Association is hopeful that today’s announcement will be a catalyst for future advancements for Yellowstone bison conservation. We are particularly hopeful that Montana’s proposed action will prompt agencies to complete a new full, science-based conservation plan for Yellowstone bison in 2016.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.