Disposition of Surplus Range Animals

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) revises its regulations pertaining to the disposition of surplus range animals. The Service has determined that this is in line with its general policies on Fenced Animal Management and Collections, Donations and Disposals as outlined in the Service Manual. The Service has further determined that this action is in accordance with the provisions of all applicable laws, is consistent with principles of sound wildlife management, and is otherwise in the public interest by allowing a broader population base the opportunity to receive surplus animals which can be used for research needs, other educational purposes, biological integrity of herd management and, in some cases, subsistence. In addition, special attention has been afforded to the Native American community in the donation of bison for certain cultural and religious reasons.