100 Bison Relocated From Grand Canyon’s North Rim

On Sept. 13, Grand Canyon wildlife managers successfully relocated 100 bison from the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. All bison were transferred to the Intertribal Buffalo Council, which transported them to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.

Since reduction efforts began in 2018, park staff have removed 306 bison from the North Rim, with 282 transferred to eight different American Indian tribes through an agreement with the Intertribal Buffalo Council.

In 2014, the National Park Service (NPS) initiated a science-based planning process to manage bison overpopulation at Grand Canyon National Park. By 2017, using the best available science and working closely with the public, the state of Arizona, and American Indian tribes, park managers finalized the Initial Bison Herd Reduction Plan. This plan aims to reduce the herd through live capture and transfer, as well as limited lethal removal. The 2024 summer population estimate for the herd was approximately 378 animals.

“This successful relocation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all our partners,” said Grand Canyon Superintendent Ed Keable. “It represents a significant step toward achieving our long-term goals for bison management and conservation.”