American Prairie

The Upper Green River Basin has been called the "Serengeti of the West."

Your gifts to American Prairie Reserve are helping carry this legacy forward by assembling habitat not only for bison, but many other prairie species. Thank you for being a part of this historic effort.

The Elk Island bison herd is highly regarded in conservation circles because it is the only source herd for bison proven to be free of cattle gene introgression, a rare distinction that relates to widespread attempts to breed bison with cattle, said Christensen.

Today, while still surely a work in progress, the Reserve spans more than 123,000 acres of public and private land. It is already a haven for outdoors enthusiasts and is home to an expanding herd of bison and diversity of grassland species.

I’m very excited about the 70 new bison that will be coming to our herd this winter, as well as the improvements we’re making to visitor facilities. None of this would be possible without your continuing support.

As a group of 20 bison ran by us, the sound of their hooves and the cloud of dust was enough to make us imagine we were back in the Wild West. It was a good reminder of the vision we have for the Reserve, a place where the public can continue to experience the sights and sounds of prairie, now and in the future. We hope that your next visit is as memorable as ours – whether you’re exploring the prairie for the first time or as a repeat visitor.

"We always thought it was undoable, because of a cultural cliché: ‘Well you ain’t bringing back the buffalo,’" Posewitz said. "That doesn’t apply anymore."

From kids looking with wonder at their expansive surroundings to scientists documenting a new discovery, the Reserve is quickly becoming a cherished destination for people of all ages.

The event will conclude with a finale picnic, where you’ll join new friends to watch hundreds of elk bugling during their annual mating ritual, known as the rut.

This year, American Prairie Foundation celebrates its 10th year in operation.