Efforts to restore the American bison are gaining momentum across the United States, with significant initiatives underway in several states. These programs aim to reestablish bison populations, restore prairie ecosystems, and strengthen cultural connections, particularly with Indigenous communities. Here’s an overview of notable state-led and tribal-led bison restoration efforts:
1. South Dakota – Wolakota Buffalo Range
Established in 2020 by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, the Wolakota Buffalo Range spans around 28,000 acres on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. This project supports ecological restoration, preserves cultural traditions, boosts economic opportunities, promotes food security, and offers educational outreach. This initiative aims to develop ecological restoration, cultural practices, economic development, food security, and public education. The project has received support from national parks, conservation groups, and private donors. The bison here play a key role in restoring the prairie ecosystem, which had been heavily degraded by years of overgrazing and agriculture. Tribal leaders see the bison not just as animals, but as relatives and spiritual symbols that connect them to their ancestors.
2. Illinois – Nachusa Grasslands
Bison were reintroduced in 2014 to the Nachusa Grasslands in Illinois, which are managed by The Nature Conservancy. The herd has grown to approximately 120-130 individuals in summer and 90-100 in winter. This project contributes to prairie restoration and biodiversity conservation in the region. The bison are allowed to roam freely, mimicking natural grazing behaviors that promote the health of native grasses and wildflowers. Scientists actively study the area to monitor how bison affect soil health, plant diversity, and pollinator activity. Community volunteers also help maintain the preserve, making it a collaborative success story in conservation.
3. Wyoming – Wind River Reservation
The Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes have been actively restoring bison populations on the Wind River Reservation. In a significant move, the Eastern Shoshone tribe recently voted to classify buffalo as wildlife instead of livestock, aiming to restore buffalo populations on tribal lands and recognize their role in sustaining biodiversity and ecological balance. This reclassification allows the tribe more autonomy in managing and protecting the bison herds. It also aligns with a broader cultural revival, where ceremonies and storytelling traditions linked to the buffalo are being rejuvenated.
4. Montana – American Prairie Reserve
Herds of bison are being brought back to the Northern Great Plains by Montana’s American Prairie Reserve. The reserve collaborates with various partners to conserve the genetic, ecological, and behavioral features of wild bison, aiming to inspire and support similar restoration efforts across North America. The ultimate vision is to create a fully connected ecosystem where bison, elk, and predators like wolves can roam freely. Visitors to the reserve can observe bison in a near-wild state, experiencing the landscape as it once was. The project also prioritizes cooperation with local ranchers, reducing conflicts and building support for long-term success.
5. Colorado – Tribal Partnerships
In Colorado, partnerships between state agencies and tribal nations have facilitated the transfer of bison to tribal lands, supporting cultural and ecological restoration efforts. These collaborations are part of broader initiatives to reestablish bison populations and restore prairie ecosystems. Several herds have been reintroduced in partnership with the Denver Zoo and federal land agencies. Bison from Yellowstone have been relocated here as part of genetic preservation efforts, maintaining pure lineages. Education programs are also underway to raise public awareness about the bison’s ecological and historical significance.
6. New Mexico – Tribal and Federal Collaborations
New Mexico has seen collaborative efforts between tribal nations and federal agencies to restore bison populations. By reintroducing bison to tribal territories, these programs hope to promote ecological restoration and cultural revival. Tribes such as the Pueblo of Pojoaque and the Jicarilla Apache are involved in these restoration projects. Bison herds are helping rehabilitate degraded lands by promoting native grass growth and improving soil structure. Some communities are integrating bison meat into local food systems to enhance food sovereignty and health outcomes.
7. Kansas – Prairie Restoration Projects
Kansas has implemented prairie restoration projects that include the reintroduction of bison. These efforts focus on restoring native grasslands and supporting biodiversity through the presence of bison herds. The Konza Prairie Biological Station, operated by Kansas State University, plays a central role in bison ecology research. Long-term studies there examine how bison grazing supports fire cycles and plant diversity. Visitors are encouraged to explore educational trails and witness firsthand the positive ecological changes bison bring.
8. Oklahoma – Tribal Bison Programs
In Oklahoma, tribal nations have launched bison restoration programs to bring herds back to their ancestral lands and support cultural and ecological renewal. These programs support cultural heritage, food sovereignty, and ecological restoration. Tribes like the Cherokee, Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Osage are leading these efforts with funding and assistance from the Inter-Tribal Buffalo Council. These initiatives strengthen traditional foodways and provide economic benefits through eco-tourism and sustainable meat programs. Educational outreach is also empowering young tribal members to take pride in their heritage.
9. Arizona – Inter-Tribal Bison Council Initiatives
Arizona participates in bison restoration through the Inter-Tribal Bison Council, which works with various tribes to reestablish bison populations. These initiatives aim to restore bison to tribal lands, supporting cultural and ecological goals. The Hualapai and Navajo Nations are among those involved in breeding programs and land restoration efforts. Bison are managed using traditional knowledge systems in conjunction with modern veterinary care. The success of these programs is inspiring more tribes to consider similar ventures in the Southwest.
10. North Dakota – Returning Bison to Tribal Lands
In North Dakota, bison restoration is being embraced through partnerships between tribal governments and conservation agencies. The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation have been reintroducing bison to their lands to support food sovereignty, cultural heritage, and ecological health. These herds help regenerate prairie ecosystems, support youth education, and foster community pride. Ongoing efforts also focus on preserving the genetic purity of the animals while connecting new generations with ancestral traditions.