The winter of 2007-2008 took a heavy toll on Yellowstone's bison. A harsh winter caused large numbers of animals to move out of the park, foraging for food. This triggered provisions in the Interagency Bison Management Plan which resulted in 1435 bison being shipped to slaughter. Additionally, 166 were killed in the bison hunt, and 112 were removed for a quarantine feasibility study. All in all, the park's bison population was reduced by nearly 50 percent--from approximately 4700 in the summer of 2007 to about 2500 by spring of 2008.

This winter, Yellowstone's bison have fared much better. It's estimated that approximately 100 animals succumbed to winter conditions; 1 bison was killed by hunters, and as of the end of March, no bison had been taken to slaughter for leaving the park. A relatively mild winter and good forage reduced the number of animals that have migrated outside the park boundary. "That is not to say that we might not see more movement between now and spring green-up," said park spokesman Al Nash in late March. There are currently 38 bison that have migrated out of the West Entrance to Horse Butte Peninsula. A recently signed agreement allows a limited number of bison to winter there.

Based on aerial surveys and ground observations, biologists recently estimated the current population to be 2900 bison, down from an estimated population of approximately 3000 last summer. These numbers, however, will soon rise, as bison birthing season is approaching in Yellowstone. The months of April and May mark the arrival of gangly, reddish-brown calves. If you're planning a spring visit to the park, don't miss out on the chance to see these newborns. A drive through the Lamar Valley or along the Firehole River presents the best viewing opportunities.

Yellowstone's National Park Service and its official educational partner, the Yellowstone Association Institute, are teaming up to offer a series of teacher workshops in the park. Our highly qualified instructors share effective teaching strategies which help teachers bring Yellowstone information to life in their own classrooms. A limited number of scholarships are available for Wyoming educators for the July workshop. The following workshops are scheduled:

• Take It Outside, July 27-30, 2009, $435
• Living on the Edge, October 15-18 2009, $335

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Yellowstone needs your help this year more than ever. You can easily double the power of your gift by inquiring with your employer about matching your charitable contribution to the Yellowstone Association. In 2008 we received over $5,000 in support from matching gifts. With your help we would love to double that amount in 2009! Inquire with your employer today.