Washington, D.C. – The bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act, introduced by Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) and co-sponsored by Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.), is fundamental step toward environmental justice and promoting the inclusion of Tribal nations in protecting and conserving the buffalo species.

“The Indian Buffalo Management Act would not only help tribal nations restore buffalo to their rightful home, but offer a chance for native people to reconnect, heal and revitalize our historical and cultural connections,” said Jason Baldes, board member of the InterTribal Buffalo Council and tribal buffalo program manager for the National Wildlife Federation. “This legislation will expand capacity and ensure we can continue down the road to a revitalized and prolific population of buffalo across the country.” 

“The National Wildlife Federation and tribal partners share a common vision of restoring thousands of bison on millions of acres of tribal lands,” said Garrit Voggesser, director of the Tribal Partnerships Program. “The Indian Buffalo Management Act would provide support in expanding restoration efforts and empower tribal nations to take bison conservation into their own hands.”