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Rep. Rosendale Requests an Open and Public Process as the Department of Interior Considers Reintroducing Bison in Montana

Washington, August 16, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland requesting more information on meetings her Department is holding on the potential reintroduction of bison in Montana.

“It is within the interest of Montanans and my duty as one of their Congressman to be made aware of any action the Department is considering regarding the reintroduction of bison,” said Rep. Rosendale. “It is concerning that these hearings are occurring quietly with little to no information available to the public. I expect the process of considering the reintroduction of this animal will be public and open to feedback from local stakeholders. I hope Secretary Haaland and her staff will be forthcoming about any rule-making sessions, hearings, or meetings related to the Department of Interior’s actions to restore the bison population.”

Rep. Rosendale has requested any and all information related to the process of reintroducing the American bison to Montana, including,

  • Minutes of any meeting that has taken place regarding bison restoration or reintroduction;
  • A schedule of any meetings or hearings that have or will take place regarding this action;
  • The times and locations of such meetings;
  • A list of participants of each meeting;
  • Any agendas set for each meeting;
  • A list of outside groups who gave input for the actions related to bison restoration;
  • A list of invited participants to each meeting;
  • A written statement as to why these meetings or hearings have not been open to the public.

Read Rep. Rosendale's full letter to Secretary Haaland here.