Rep. Gosar's Grand Canyon Bison Management Act Passes out of Committee, Awaits House Vote

Statement

Today, U.S. Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after the House Natural Resources Committee successfully passed the Congressman's legislation, the Grand Canyon Bison Management Act, by unanimous consent attaching the bill as an amendment to H.R. 2406, the Sportsmen's Heritage and Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Act:

"The Grand Canyon is plagued by an invasive hybrid species, part buffalo and part cattle, known as "beefalo'. The "beefalo' overpopulation is a problem that is causing significant damage to park resources. These massive animals are trampling park land, defecating in water holes, destroying historically significant Native American landmarks and affecting public safety on roads and trails. While the Park Service recently testified that it already had some of the provisions in my bill available for its use, the simple fact remains that it isn't using the powers given. The beefalo population is exploding and this issue needs to be resolved now. We can't wait a couple more years on the Park Service for a solution.

"The bipartisan, bicameral effort passed by unanimous consent by the Committee today will protect Arizona's greatest treasure, the Grand Canyon, in a responsible manner. The Park Service need not fear hunters and sportsmen, and continue to irrationally delay a solution. We don't need to waste precious taxpayer money on lengthy studies and expensive sharpshooters to address the issues with the beefalo in the Grand Canyon. My bill provides an immediate solution by requiring the Secretary of Interior coordinate with the Arizona's state wildlife management agency to implement a plan that includes reduction of the beefalo population through humane lethal culling by skilled public volunteers and hunters and also by other nonlethal means. This legislative solution is a victory for sportsmen, conservationists and taxpayers that will provide a timely resolution to the beefalo problem plaguing Grand Canyon National Park."

Following the committee vote, Arizona Game and Fish Chairman Kurt Davis stated, "National Parks Service Associate Director Victor Knox agrees…there are too many bison in and around the National Park and they are causing a problem to historical landmarks, habitat, and native species. This is a clear problem with an appropriate and effective solution. This legislation is a testament to the fact that states are better equipped to manage issues that impact them and this solution also comes with no price tag to taxpayers. Credit goes to Congressman Gosar and his staff for the progress of this bipartisan bill in the House. I also want to thank Senators McCain and Flake for carrying this in the Senate on behalf of Arizonans and the treasured landscape and wildlife in the Grand Canyon. With our delegation's continued efforts, this effective and thoughtful, Arizona led solution will be possible."

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