National Elk Refuge

June 10, 2008

Bull Elk surrounded by mostly cows, National Elk Refuge, WY ©Marda Jordan, 11/2005

June 3, 2008, NWRA joined four other conservation organizations in a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of the Interior regarding management of the National Elk Refuge in northwestern Wyoming. The lawsuit seeks to restore healthy populations of elk and reduce the risk of disease through the elimination of an established feeding program.

Almost since it’s establishment in 1912, the National Elk Refuge has fostered an elk-feeding program in winter months. The elk, which migrate down from colder and higher latitudes in the winters, congregate in the lower elevations of the refuge for approximately six months and are fed in much the same way cattle are on large feedlots. In the early 1900’s this feeding of the elk during harsh winters probably ensured their survival, but now, it could actually lead to their demise.

Learn More:

NWRA’s statement on the lawsuit

New York Times article

NWRA’s November 2005 comments

If you have any questions, please contact:

Desiree Sorenson-Groves, Vice President of Government Affairs, dgroves@refugeassociation.org