Lessons Learned from Bison Restoration Efforts in Utah on Western Rangelands

Abstract

On the Ground Bison are considered the keystone species of the Great Plains but widespread slaughter led to their near extinction. Utah has two wild, free-ranging herds on public lands managed as wildlife though hunting. Both herds are descended from animals reintroduced to the Henry Mountains in the 1940s and more recently the Book Cliffs in 2008. Key elements for the successful ecological restoration of bison include: Legal designation of bison as wildlife in the state Genetically-pure, disease-free source Large expanses of habitat-they take a lot of room Potential conflicts must be identified and addressed in a transparent manner Mutual purpose and trust with all affected stakeholders is essential; i.e., ask, How can we have both sustainable livestock grazing and a viable bison herd on the unit? Active management to address changing situations and maintain herd size at a sustainable level