Wild Buffalo Caught in the Crosshairs: The Battle Over Yellowstone’s Historic Bison Management

A herd of bison at Yellowstone National ParkPhoto byIronrodart/Dreamstime

The story of the American buffalo—more accurately known as bison—unfolds as a poignant saga of ecological grandeur, near extinction, and ongoing conservation challenges. From their historical abundance to their present status in Yellowstone National Park, managing these animals highlights a complex interplay of ecological stewardship, cultural revival, and modern wildlife practices. Their journey from near eradication in the late 19th century to current conservation efforts underscores the broader struggle to reconcile historical legacy with contemporary wildlife management.

The Historical Epoch: From Abundance to Near Extinction

Before European settlers arrived, North America was home to an estimated 30 to 60 million bison, whose herds were integral to the continent's grassland ecosystems. For Native American tribes, the buffalo was a central figure in their spiritual and cultural practices, providing essential resources for sustenance, clothing, and tools.

The arrival of European settlers triggered a catastrophic decline in buffalo populations. Driven by economic interests and a colonial agenda to dismantle Indigenous cultures, a systematic campaign to eradicate the buffalo began. By the late 19th century, this campaign had reduced their numbers to fewer than 1,000. This eradication effort was not only a matter of overhunting but also a deliberate strategy to undermine Native American sovereignty and impose new agricultural and ranching practices. Secretary of the Interior Columbus Delano's 1873 remarks, advocating for the buffalo's disappearance to "civilize" Native Americans, underscore this destructive ideology.

Photo byPBS

Legacy and Modern Management Challenges

Today's bison, descendants of the few survivors in Yellowstone's Pelican Valley, face ongoing management challenges. Yellowstone has managed its bison population for over two decades through controversial practices like culling and relocation. While these methods aim to prevent overgrazing and manage disease risks, they have been criticized for perpetuating a legacy of viewing buffalo primarily as livestock rather than wildlife.

Recent developments indicate a shift in Yellowstone's approach. In November 2022, the park announced a new management strategy focusing on ecological and cultural restoration. This includes expanding Tribal treaty hunting opportunities and implementing the Bison Conservation Transfer Program, which aims to quarantine bison before relocating them to Tribal lands and, eventually, other public lands.

While this shift represents progress, it has been subject to controversy. Critics argue that the Final Bison Management Plan's reliance on population limits and transfers to reservations continues a trend toward buffalo domestication rather than wholly embracing a biocentric approach that honors their ecological and cultural significance. This controversy highlights the ongoing debate about the most appropriate management practices for Yellowstone's wild buffalo.

Photo bySHEILA NEWENHAW

The Buffalo Field Campaign

The Buffalo Field Campaign (BFC) is at the forefront of protecting America’s wild bison, driven by a deep commitment to preserving Yellowstone's iconic herds. Founded in 1997, BFC’s mission goes beyond conservation; it’s about honoring these animals' cultural and ecological significance.

BFC employs a dynamic approach. Its dedicated volunteers monitor buffalo movements, collect critical data, and oppose controversial culls. Politically, they inform legislators about the buffalo's plight and engage in legal battles to ensure their right to roam freely. Public outreach is also key, as they work to shift public opinion and mobilize support through educational events and advocacy campaigns.

Their vision is a world where buffalo and native wildlife thrive on public lands, reflecting their values of environmental justice and respect for indigenous rights. BFC’s efforts embody a commitment to a future where these majestic animals flourish harmoniously with their natural habitat.

Photo byMarkos Wolf, Buffalo Field Campaign

Tribal Advocacy: A Controversial Intersection

The involvement of Native American tribes in buffalo management is deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual revival. For many tribes, the buffalo symbolizes strength and unity, reflecting a historical relationship nearly obliterated in the late 19th century. Groups like the Inter-Tribal Bison Cooperative and the Buffalo Field Campaign have emerged from this context, aiming to restore buffalo populations and rebuild cultural connections. Fred Dubray, former president of the Inter-Tribal Bison Cooperative, encapsulates this sentiment: "We recognize the bison as a symbol of strength in unity. To reestablish healthy buffalo populations is to reestablish hope for Indian people."

However, recent developments have sparked controversy and tension. In a significant and contentious event last year, a massive hunt outside Yellowstone National Park resulted in the death of 1,150 bison. This culling operation, intended to prevent the spread of disease to livestock, has faced substantial criticism. Indigenous hunters, who have flocked to the boundaries of Yellowstone, view their hunts as part of a broader effort to restore their disrupted connection with the buffalo. 

Yet, this traditional practice is now intertwined with conflict. Critics, including the Buffalo Field Campaign, argue that the scale of the hunt is excessive and driven by commercial interests rather than ecological balance. Mike Mease, a founder of the Buffalo Field Campaign, expressed his frustration: “They are killing one-quarter of the herd. That is insanity.” He acknowledges the importance of tribal hunting but accuses the Montana livestock industry of exerting undue influence, leading to what he sees as an unsustainable slaughter of the buffalo.

This tension underscores a broader debate about managing Yellowstone’s bison. The clash between traditional tribal practices and modern regulatory frameworks highlights the challenges of balancing cultural heritage with contemporary conservation needs. As the debate continues, it’s clear that finding a solution that honors both historical relationships and current ecological realities remains a complex and contentious issue.

Coral Cruz, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, after shooting a bison in Beattie Gulch.Photo byMichael Hanson

Closing Thoughts

The story of Yellowstone’s wild buffalo is a microcosm of broader conflicts between conservation, cultural preservation, and modern management practices. While recent efforts by Yellowstone National Park to shift towards more culturally and ecologically considerate management are promising, significant challenges remain. The Buffalo Field Campaign’s tireless advocacy and the profound connection of Native American tribes to the buffalo underscore the need for a more inclusive and respectful approach. As we navigate these complex issues, it’s crucial to remember that the buffalo is more than just a species to be managed—a symbol of enduring cultural heritage and ecological balance. Moving forward, active engagement and a holistic approach that honors the buffalo's ecological role and its cultural significance for Indigenous peoples will be essential in ensuring a future where these majestic creatures can thrive once more.