WWF's Statement on the Reintroduction of the Indian Buffalo Management Act

U.S Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) reintroduced the bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act, which would direct the Department of Interior to develop and promote Tribal Nations' ownership and management of buffalo and buffalo habitat. WWF's Heather Dawn Thompson, VP of Native Nations Conservation & Food Systems, issued the following statement: 

“Buffalo represent everything that is strong, and good, and resilient about America and its people. For many Tribal Nations, they are also our relatives who are at the heart of our traditional lifeways, which is why Tribal Nations have led efforts to save them in the face of enormous historical challenges. The Indian Buffalo Management Act acknowledges the critical role that Tribal Nations are playing in bringing buffalo back—and the essential role that buffalo continue to play in food security, economic development, and cultural and spiritual life. We thank Senators Heinrich and Mullin for their leadership in reintroducing this bill to ensure continued federal support for Tribes and their work to restore and conserve this iconic American species."