State proposes moving more bison to Book Cliffs

Utah wildlife officials want to move bison from the Henry Mountains over to the Book Cliffs.

Biologists in the Henry Mountains this summer found about 450 bison, roughly 35 more than expected and far more than the goal of about 275.

To take the pressure off that area, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is proposing to move about 40 bison to the Book Cliffs, where a newly formed herd now numbers fewer than 50. If approved, the move would likely happen in January.

The other option for reducing the Henry Mountains herd is to increase the number of hunting permits in that area. That step, though, would require changes in the structure of the hunting season.

The Utah Wildlife Board is expected to discuss the proposals Oct. 1 in Salt Lake City.