Bison Showdown: MT Officials Challenge Yellowstone’s New Plan

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and two state agencies are unhappy about Yellowstone National Park's New Bison Management Plan, so much so that they are suing the Biden administration to challenge the new plan.

Who's Suing?

Governor Gianforte has teamed up with the Montana Department of Livestock and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) to put the brakes on Yellowstone National Park's Bison Management Plan. It looks like a bison-sized debate is about to go down!

Get our free mobile app

Why are they Suing?

The issue comes from the new plan to increase the number of bison in and around the Yellowstone area. The complaint claims that if the expansion of the bison happens, it will violate several federal laws.

"NPS has not given us a fair shake and has ignored concerns raised by the State. We will always defend our State from federal overreach." -- Gov. Greg Gainforte

Another major concern raised by the Department of Livestock is the potential threat to Montana's livestock from the possible spread of brucellosis.

A letter was sent by the Governor earlier in the year to the Department of the Interior and to NPS, informing them of his disappointment in the lack of communication.  

"YNP has avoided substantive, collaborative discussions with the State's scientists and technical advisors at every turn." - Gov. Greg Gainforte.

You can view the full complaint in detail HERE and the official letter sent earlier in the year HERE.

So... What happens now?

Time will reveal the outcome of this situation, but the issue is far from resolved. Some conservation groups support the plan, believing it is what's best for animals, while others disagree. There are plenty of opinions floating around on the situation, and it certainly will be interesting to see how it shakes out.

Credit: Montana.gov