Senate panel to hear bill on bison relocation ban

Senate panel to hear bill on bison relocation ban

MATT VOLZ, Associated Press

HELENA — A bill that would prohibit Montana wildlife officials from relocating Yellowstone National Park bison is being heard in a state Senate committee.

Senate Bill 144 sponsored by Republican Sen. John Brendan would ban Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks from moving bison anywhere in the state except the National Bison Range. The Senate Fish and Game Committee is taking it up Thursday afternoon.

The Scobey Republican has said bison relocation would create a disease threat for ranchers and farmers.

On Wednesday, 25 wild bison were herded to their historical grazing grounds north of Yellowstone National Park, where they will remain until spring.

FWP is also studying wildlife management areas for a site to relocate up to 50 Yellowstone bison for at least five years.

HELENA — A bill that would prohibit Montana wildlife officials from relocating Yellowstone National Park bison is being heard in a state Senate committee.

Senate Bill 144 sponsored by Republican Sen. John Brendan would ban Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks from moving bison anywhere in the state except the National Bison Range. The Senate Fish and Game Committee is taking it up Thursday afternoon.

The Scobey Republican has said bison relocation would create a disease threat for ranchers and farmers.

On Wednesday, 25 wild bison were herded to their historical grazing grounds north of Yellowstone National Park, where they will remain until spring.

FWP is also studying wildlife management areas for a site to relocate up to 50 Yellowstone bison for at least five years.