Washington, DC – Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet today applauded the Senate’s passage of the National Bison Legacy Act. The bill, cosponsored by Bennet, establishes the North American bison as the national mammal of the United States. It passed the Senate unanimously.
“Colorado has a rich agricultural heritage that includes a strong bison ranching tradition,” Bennet said. “This bill helps commemorate the legacy of these creatures and their importance to our country’s heritage and our state’s agricultural economy. The North American bison is a vital part of our history and bison ranchers and conservationists in Colorado have played a significant role in their resurgence.”
“Senate passage of the Bison Legacy Act moves us one step closer to giving this majestic animal proper recognition as our National Mammal,” said Dave Carter of the National Bison Association. “Bison ranchers appreciate Senator Bennet’s leadership in helping to navigate this legislation to final passage.”
Colorado is home to more than 500 bison ranches raising more than 11,000 bison. The bison is North America’s largest land mammal that once numbered 20-30 million across the continent. However, westward expansion almost reduced the bison population to extinction. Conservationists and bison ranchers have helped rejuvenate the species, bringing the current population to approximately 500,000 in North America.
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