FWP Recommends Moving Bison To Indian Reservations

Montana wildlife officials say they are recommending the relocation of 68 quarantined Yellowstone National Park bison to two Indian reservations.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks had considered four relocation sites across the state, but ran into strong opposition by ranchers, landowners and hunters concerned with the spread of disease and damage to private property.

Tribal officials with the Fort Peck and Fort Belknap reservations, on the other hand, have said they would welcome the bison and cited their historical and cultural ties to the animals.

FWP director Joe Maurier signed a record of decision Wednesday recommending the animals' relocation to the two northeastern Montana reservations. The bison could be moved this winter if the FWP commission approves the plan at its Dec. 9 meeting.

Associated Press