“Protect Wild Bison” bill clears first hurdle

DENVER – Wild bison are one step closer to protection in Colorado after the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources committee passed a bill today that will add big game designation to wild bison, just like the neighboring states of Utah, Wyoming and Montana. This will finally make it illegal to shoot wild bison who wander in from neighboring states without a permit. 

Bison are an iconic species to the state of Colorado. They are a former keystone species to Colorado’s grasslands, the mascot of the state’s largest public university, and a cornerstone of indigenous culture. But bison are currently only classified as livestock in Colorado.  

In the northwest corner of the state, wild bison wander in from Utah and it is entirely legal to shoot them, given their lack of protections in our laws. 

“Bison are hugely beneficial to Colorado’s grasslands (and other) ecosystems, as well as being awe-inspiring creatures and a symbol of Colorado and the American West,” said Annika Antholis, campaign associate with Environment Colorado. “It’s absurd that wild bison are not protected by our state laws. It’s past time to give wild bison the same protections as other big game species like elk, moose and deer, and, after this vote, we’re one step closer.” 

The bill will head next to the Senate Appropriations committee. 

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