Bison eradication stripped western grasslands of nutrients, Yellowstone research shows

Yellowstone’s bison don’t just symbolize the wild—they actively shape it. A new study in Science shows that their seasonal migrations enrich the park’s grasslands, boosting protein in forage by more than double through the simple cycle of grazing, fertilizing, and moving on. Researchers found this natural system improves soil health and plant nutrition without signs of overgrazing, creating a mosaic of thriving habitats. It’s a reminder that Yellowstone remains one of the last places where bison still behave—and benefit the land—like true wildlife.

Mike Koshmrl

WyoFile

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