Yellowstone National Park and its surrounding landscape is one of the most inhospitable locations in the Lower 48. Life for large mammals is particularly challenging given the frigid temperatures, deep snow and long winters. Summer is short and can be equally dangerous for the living due to wildfires, drought, and millions of tourists all trying to get that perfect “refrigerator shot” of a bison, grizzly, elk or some other wild critter wishing only to be left alone.
Since moving to Bozeman, Montana in 1986, I have had the privilege of working with some dedicated individuals and grassroots groups, all trying to protect nature (God’s country) in this amazing ecosystem. This running battle with the State of Montana, various federal agencies (National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service-USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service-USDA (APHIS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and a host of elite local and national NGOs that suck on an average day/year knows no end, and seems to have no bounds. And it seems to be getting worse, not better.
Continue reading “Killing Yellowstone’s Charismatic Megafauna” →