More than 30 million bison once roamed Montana's Great Plains and America's Western prairie habitat. However, decades of overexploitation, habitat loss and human conflict have nearly eliminated bison from our dwindling prairie landscapes.

For more than a decade we've been able to begin restoring this magnificent American icon to conserve it for future generations. Yet recently, several bills were introduced that either attempt to create a zero-tolerance policy for wild bison or block bison restoration efforts.

I urge you to use your position as governor to stand up for treasured wildlife and protect the last of the wild bison from uncontrolled killing. I understand the State of Montana is currently reviewing the feasibility of bison restoration, so I would also urge you to block any bills that would prevent bison restoration now and in the future.