American bison conservation and population recovery

American bison conservation efforts have reached significant milestones across the United States. Following a period of near-extinction in the late 19th century, recovery programs have successfully transitioned populations from the brink of disappearance to thriving herds.

In Yellowstone National Park, the National Park Service has utilized the Bison Conservation Transfer Program to expand populations. Since 2019, more than 600 bison have been relocated to 29 tribes across 13 states, with over 200 transfers occurring in 2026 alone. Jessica Bowron, acting director of the National Park Service, characterized the recovery as an “incredible conservation story” resulting from decades of scientific and multi-partner cooperation.

Other major conservation projects are also reporting population growth. The Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Oklahoma manages a herd that fluctuates between 2,100 and 2,700 animals, using bison grazing to maintain ecosystem diversity. Additionally, the American Prairie nonprofit has surpassed 1,000 animals in its resident herd as part of a larger initiative to rewild millions of acres of prairie land.