Will America's Bison Survive the Trump Administration?

Yellowstone National Park’s bison are more than just iconic wildlife—they are living symbols of American conservation and cultural resilience. Yet, their management has long been a flashpoint between ecological integrity, Indigenous rights, livestock interests, and shifting federal policies. As the Trump administration intensifies environmental rollbacks, the fate of Yellowstone’s bison—and the broader health of U.S. public lands—hangs in the balance.

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A Brief History: From Near Extinction to Recovery

Before European settlement, an estimated 30 to 60 million bison roamed North America, from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Pacific Northwest, and from northern Canada down to the north of Mexico. They dominated the Great Plains and much of the interior grasslands, playing a crucial ecological role in shaping the landscape. Their immense range and numbers made them one of the most successful large mammals on Earth.

For many Native American nations, bison were—and remain—far more than just a source of food or materials. Bison are sacred beings, central to cultural identity, spirituality, and the survival of their species. Countless tribes honor the bison in their oral histories, ceremonies, and creation stories. The bison symbolizes strength, unity, abundance, and the deep relationship between humans and the natural world.

However, the arrival of European Americans triggered catastrophic changes. In the 19th century, bison were slaughtered by the millions, both for commercial purposes (hides, meat, and bones) and as a deliberate tool of war to subjugate Native nations who depended on them. By the late 1800s, fewer than 1,000 bison remained across North America, and Yellowstone’s remnant population of just 23 animals became one of the last refuges for the species.

The U.S. government's relationship with bison has historically been schizophrenic. On one hand, it orchestrated the near extermination of bison to undercut Indigenous resistance and clear land for settlement and railroads. On the other hand, as the extinction crisis became undeniable, it led to early conservation efforts to save species, which often excluded or disregarded the voices of Native people.

In 1902, recognizing the urgent need for action, Yellowstone National Park supplemented its tiny surviving herd with 21 bison relocated from private ranches. These bison were initially managed at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch before being allowed to reestablish a wild, free-ranging population. By 1954, the herd had grown to about 1,300 animals.

In the 1960s, the National Park Service adopted a policy of "natural regulation," allowing wildlife populations, including bison, to fluctuate naturally without artificial intervention in their population control. This marked a major philosophical shift, acknowledging the bison’s rightful place as a wild animal, not simply a managed commodity.

Today, Yellowstone’s bison represent the last continuously free-ranging, genetically pure herd in the contiguous United States—a living testament to both America’s environmental failures and its capacity for ecological redemption.

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The Modern Management Landscape

Today, Yellowstone’s bison population is managed under the Interagency Bison Management Plan (IBMP), established in 2000. This collaborative effort involves federal, state, and tribal entities working together to address the complex issues surrounding bison conservation, including disease management and migration outside park boundaries.

A central concern is brucellosis, a disease that can be transmitted from bison to cattle. However, despite decades of fear, there have been no confirmed cases of wild bison directly transmitting brucellosis to livestock. Most known transmissions involve elk, not bison.

Yet bison, not elk, are subjected to aggressive culling, hazing, and slaughter when they migrate beyond park boundaries. This selective treatment reflects the outsized influence of the livestock industry in shaping wildlife management policies. Ranching groups, fearful of potential restrictions on grazing rights and disease exposure, have consistently pressured state and federal agencies to limit bison numbers. In contrast, elk, who also carry and transmit brucellosis and routinely mingle with cattle, are largely left alone because they are a prized game species for hunters, another politically influential group in Montana and neighboring states.

This double standard highlights how economic and political pressures, not purely science or public safety, often drive bison management decisions.

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Potential Solutions: Pros and Cons

1. Culling and Hunting

• Pros: Helps maintain bison populations at levels deemed manageable by state and federal agencies; addresses ranchers' concerns about disease transmission.

• Cons: Raises ethical and ecological concerns; disrupts natural behaviors and social structures within bison herds; undermines cultural values of Indigenous communities.

2. Bison Conservation Transfer Program

• Pros: Allows for the relocation of brucellosis-free bison to tribal lands, supporting cultural restoration and reducing the need for culling.

• Cons: Requires extensive testing and quarantine procedures; faces logistical and political challenges in implementation.

3. Expanding Habitat and Migration Corridors

• Pros: Supports natural bison behaviors and ecological roles; reduces conflicts by providing more space for bison to roam.

• Cons: May face opposition from landowners and ranchers; requires significant policy changes and land-use planning.

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The Trump Administration’s Impact on Wildlife Management

The Trump administration implemented policies widely seen as detrimental to wildlife and public lands. These included:

• Reducing Protected Lands: Shrinking national monuments to allow for more mining, drilling, and development.

• Weakening the Endangered Species Act: Redefining "harm" to exclude habitat destruction, undercutting protections for threatened species.

• Cutting Scientific Funding: Slashing support for research vital to managing wildlife health and ecosystem resilience.

These rollbacks emboldened industries already hostile to conservation efforts, including ranching groups seeking fewer restrictions on public lands.

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What You Can Do: Standing Up for National Parks and Wildlife

The good news? Bison have survived threats before, and they can again. But only if we step up.

Stay informed – Policies can change overnight, but awareness is the first step in fighting back.

Make your voice heard – Contact your representatives, support conservation groups, and demand accountability.

Make your voice heard, part 2: Write your local papers expressing your support for national parks, public lands, and opposition to Trump's policies.

Spread the word: Post your support for parks on social media, and encourage your friends and colleagues to get involved.

Amplify your impact: Join and support non-profits defending our public domain.

Visit and support our parks – Show the world that these places matter as protected landscapes and as vital pieces of our national heritage.

Conclusion

The management of Yellowstone’s bison reflects broader tensions in American conservation between ecological integrity, cultural heritage, economic power, and political influence. As policies shift and challenges mount, the role of public engagement becomes increasingly vital.

By staying informed and active, individuals can help protect these iconic animals—and the public lands they call home—for future generations.

Ultimately, how we choose to sustain the last remaining free-ranging herd of wild bison is about more than just wildlife management—it's a reflection of our values as a people.

Making space for bison to live and roam freely honors the natural world, acknowledges past injustices against Indigenous communities, and reaffirms a commitment to stewardship over exploitation.

In standing up for Yellowstone’s bison, we affirm that conservation, compassion, and coexistence are not relics of the past, but guiding principles for our future.

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Meet Sean Smith, a master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning
conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Yurok Tribe Makes Historic Strides in Land Management with National Park Service

Redwoods NP ~ NPS

In a historic move, the Yurok Tribe has become the first Native American community to manage tribal land in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS). Under a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding signed last Tuesday, the tribe, Redwood National and State Parks, and the nonprofit Save the Redwoods League solidified a significant land transfer exceeding 100 acres. This initiative marks a pivotal step towards rectifying past injustices and allowing the Yurok people to share their rich culture with visitors to Redwood National Park. The Yurok Tribe's journey toward this landmark agreement is deeply intertwined with a history of resilience and struggle. Historically, the Yurok people inhabited a vast territory along the Klamath River in Northern California. However, colonization and the relentless expansion of the United States led to the loss of nearly 90% of their ancestral lands. Forced relocations, broken treaties, and the imposition of federal policies severely disrupted the Yurok way of life, threatening their cultural heritage and connection to the land. Despite these adversities, the Yurok Tribe persevered to reclaim sovereignty over their traditional territories. The recent memorandum of understanding represents a significant milestone in this journey toward self-determination and cultural revitalization. By assuming management responsibilities for tribal land within Redwood National Park, the Yurok people can exercise greater control over their ancestral homelands, ensuring their preservation and perpetuation for future generations. Moreover, the land transfer holds profound symbolic significance, not only for the Yurok Tribe but for Indigenous communities across the country. It underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical injustices inflicted upon Native peoples while also reaffirming their inherent rights to land, resources, and self-governance. As the first of its kind with the NPS, this partnership sets a precedent for similar initiatives aimed at reconciling past wrongs and fostering collaborative stewardship between Indigenous nations and federal agencies. As we celebrate this historic milestone, we must recognize that the Yurok Tribe's achievement is part of a broader movement towards Indigenous land reclamation and sovereignty. Across the country, similar land-back initiatives are gaining momentum as Indigenous communities assert their rights to self-determination and cultural revitalization. These efforts seek to rectify past injustices and offer opportunities for healing, reconciliation, and revitalizing Indigenous lifeways. In conclusion, the Yurok Tribe's partnership with the National Park Service marks a significant step forward in the journey towards Indigenous sovereignty and cultural revitalization. By reclaiming stewardship over their ancestral lands, the Yurok people preserve their cultural heritage and enrich visitors' experiences to Redwood National Park. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us also reaffirm our commitment to supporting Indigenous-led conservation efforts and honoring Native peoples' inherent rights to their ancestral homelands.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Embracing Change: The National Park Service's Effort to Rename Park Features with Native American Names

Clingmans Dome ~ NPS

To honor and acknowledge the deep-rooted history and heritage of Native American communities, the National Park Service (NPS) has embarked on a significant effort to rename features, locations, and sites within the National Park system. One such example is the ongoing debate surrounding renaming the Great Smoky Mountains' Clingmans Dome to Kuwohi, a Cherokee word meaning mulberry place. This initiative, however, is not without its share of controversies, echoing similar debates around the renaming of Mount McKinley or military bases that honored Confederate generals. 

The Controversy:

The renaming of landmarks, whether they be mountains or military bases, often sparks intense debate. Critics argue that such changes erase history and disrupt longstanding traditions, while proponents contend that it is a necessary step towards rectifying historical injustices and fostering inclusivity.

The controversy surrounding the renaming of Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park reflects a broader discussion within society about addressing historical symbols that may be offensive or outdated. It's part of a larger movement to reevaluate and change names associated with figures or events that are now considered inappropriate or insensitive.

Drawing Parallels with Military Base Renaming:

The NPS's efforts are reminiscent of the ongoing initiative to rename military bases that bore the names of Confederate generals. Just as the debate surrounding Confederate symbols gained momentum, the renaming of military bases has become a focal point in the broader conversation about the nation's history and identity. Advocates for change argue that these names are not only offensive but also glorify individuals who fought to preserve slavery during the Civil War.

Benefits of Renaming Efforts:

While controversies persist, there are tangible benefits to renaming landmarks with names rooted in Native American history. One of the primary advantages is the opportunity to reestablish traditional connections to the land that date back thousands of years. Native American communities have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to these places, and renaming them with indigenous names is a step towards recognizing and respecting that connection.

Additionally, renaming efforts contribute to a more inclusive narrative that reflects the diverse history of the United States. By honoring the land's original inhabitants through naming conventions, the NPS aims to create a more accurate representation of the nation's heritage.

Conclusion:

The National Park Service's effort to rename mountains and other features within the National Park system, including the ongoing debate over Clingmans Dome, is emblematic of a broader societal shift toward acknowledging and rectifying historical injustices. While controversies persist, the benefits of reconnecting with Native American history and promoting inclusivity outweigh the resistance to change. As the nation grapples with its past, these renaming efforts are a testament to the ongoing pursuit of a more equitable and respectful future.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

The American Buffalo: A Powerful Allegory of Our Relationship to Nature

NPS Photo

Ken Burns's latest documentary, "The American Buffalo," provides a thought-provoking journey into the
heart of a conflict that goes beyond the natural world. This cinematic masterpiece highlights the iconic buffalo and its role as a symbol of the profound clash between Native American and Western perspectives on nature.

The buffalo, or American bison, has long held a unique place in the history of North America. Native Americans revered the buffalo as a sacred and vital part of their existence. They lived in harmony with these majestic creatures, utilizing them for sustenance, clothing, and shelter while respecting the balance of nature.

In contrast, the Western expansion and colonization brought about a near extinction of the buffalo, seeing the animals as a profit-making commodity. The documentary effectively showcases how the wholesale slaughter of these animals, often to weaken and displace Native American populations, pushed the buffalo to the brink of annihilation. It starkly illustrates the deep-seated conflict between the Western view of nature as a resource to be exploited and the Native American view of nature as a sacred entity to be cherished and preserved.

At its heart, "The American Buffalo" encourages us to reflect on the implications of this historical struggle. It prompts us to consider a new path that incorporates into the American psyche an acceptance of humanity's part in the natural world and the limits it places on our actions and choices.

Here are some key takeaways:

Respect for Nature: The documentary emphasizes the need for a fundamental shift in our collective attitude towards nature. The buffalo's story underscores the importance of respecting the Earth's resources, limits, and the delicate balance sustaining life.

Conservation and Restoration: Burns' work reminds us that the buffalo was on the brink of extinction but has made a remarkable recovery. This resurgence should serve as a beacon of hope for environmental conservation efforts. It illustrates the possibility of healing and restoring ecosystems if we act decisively.

Coexistence: A path forward should encourage coexistence rather than exploitation. The lessons of the buffalo challenge us to seek sustainable solutions that respect the planet's limits.

Education and Advocacy: "The American Buffalo" is a powerful tool for education and advocacy. It invites us to engage in conversations about the environment and the significance of our actions. As individuals, we can support conservation efforts and raise awareness about respecting nature's limits.

Ken Burns' "The American Buffalo" is not merely a documentary about a charismatic megafauna; it's a parable for our times. It reflects the struggle between differing worldviews and underscores the urgency of incorporating environmental limits into the American consciousness. It serves as a call to action for sustainable coexistence and conservation. To truly honor the buffalo's spirit, we must heed its lessons and advocate for a more harmonious relationship with the natural world.

You can watch the documentary and learn more at PBS' official website. 

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Terrible Swift Sword: Philip Sheridan Bio

Terrible Swift Sword is a biography of Phillip Sheridan and paints a complex and times contradictory picture of a man who spent his entire adult life in the U.S. Army. Sheridan started his career as a lieutenant fresh out of West Point chasing Indians near Washington State's Fort Vancouver. It ended as lieutenant general ordering the army to protect Yellowstone National Park. 

During the Civil War, Sheridan along with General Sherman, pioneered total war tactics which led to the destruction of confederate farms and homes and ultimately brought the confederacy to its knees. Sheridan later unleashed total war against the plains Indians, ordering the wholesale slaughter of the buffalo herds. Sheridan believed denying the Indians their means of support would force them into submission and onto reservations. In both the Civil and the Indian wars, total war was likely the key that led to ultimate victory. Some historians believe Sheridan's total war tactics inspired later generations of European generals and led to massive destruction during World Wars I and II.

Sheridan was commanding general of the army in 1886 when the civilian Superintendent of Yellowstone National Park, called upon the army for help managing the park. Yellowstone had been a personal obsession for Sheridan. In 1870, the general ordered an army escort of the first expedition into the area. The following year, he provided an army escort for the Hayden expedition, the first scientific exploration of the park.  Yellowstone would become the world's first national park in 1872 in large part due to these expeditions.

By 1886 however, the park was under siege from hotel developers and railroad barons who pressured congress to reduce restrictions upon development and allow exploitation of the park.  Congress complied with industry wishes and zeroed out the Yellowstone's budget basically leaving the park at the mercy of the developers.  But a little used clause in federal law allowed the park superintendent to call upon the army if ever in need of help protecting the park, which he did.

Sheridan ordered a company of cavalry troops to Yellowstone to patrol the park stamp out trespass and fight wildfires.  And in a most ironic turn, Sheridan ordered the army to protect park wildlife like the bison from poaching. The army would remain at Yellowstone and other parks until 1916 when Congress finally created the National Park Service. Today we enjoy Yellowstone due in large part to the actions of Philip Sheridan.

In the end, Sheridan's stamp on many aspects of American life including how the United State's fights war, its relationship with Native Americans, and it's conservation legacy are well assured.

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Sean Smith is an award winning conservationist and author. He is a former National Park Ranger at Yellowstone, a TEDx speaker, and private pilot. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1989 with a degree in Political Science. He got his master's in Natural Resources Management from Central Washington University in 1996. He currently runs Washington State's efforts to reduce and eliminate toxic chemicals from consumer products and serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Covington.

He has been writing stories and books since he was a child and currently writes national park thrillers from the shadow of Mount Rainier.

All his novels can be found here: Mr. Sean D Smith