Yellowstone Bison

Gov. Brian Schweitzer says bison from Yellowstone National Park could be given more room to roam next year near the town of West Yellowstone.

Schweitzer said after touring the area on Wednesday that suitable habitat for the animals exists along the north shore of Hebgen Lake.

The governor says natural barriers and minimal fencing would keep the bison from heading any farther down the Madison River valley. Hunting would be allowed.

Officials still plan to drive about 300 bison near West Yellowstone back into the park next week.

A 2000 agreement on Yellowstone bison restricts where the animals can go in Montana because of disease concerns.

A change in those rules gave bison more room north of the park this spring, but was blocked last week by a state judge.

Story from The Associated Press