Eastern Shoshone Tribe Accuses Federal Agency of Unauthorized Coyote Hunt Near Bison Herd
The Eastern Shoshone Tribe has leveled accusations against the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Wildlife Services, alleging an unauthorized aerial coyote hunt conducted near a tribal bison herd on March 13th. The incident, which involved gunfire emanating from a helicopter in close proximity to the herd, has ignited concerns over tribal sovereignty, wildlife management practices, and the potential impact on the tribe’s ongoing bison restoration efforts.
According to a statement released by the Eastern Shoshone Tribe, Jason Baldes, executive director of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative and the tribe’s herd manager, witnessed the helicopter flying near the bison and heard gunfire, later confirmed through video footage. The tribe asserts that neither the Eastern Shoshone Business Council, the buffalo initiative, nor the Shoshone and Arapaho Tribal Game and Fish Department granted permission for the helicopter to operate over the reservation, let alone engage in lethal wildlife control near the sensitive bison herd.
The tribe’s statement criticizes the agency’s actions, citing a "lack of respect" for tribal sovereignty and self-determination efforts in restoring bison to the reservation. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration based on mutual respect, the tribe extended an open invitation to USDA Wildlife Services to engage in dialogue and address the matter.
In response to the allegations, USDA Wildlife Services issued a terse statement claiming respect for tribal sovereignty and denying conducting operations on tribal lands without permission. The agency further dismissed the tribe’s claims as "misinformation" and asserted that no animals were harmed nor were firearms discharged near the bison. The agency pledged to provide additional information at a later date but failed to offer further clarification by the time of publication.
Jason Baldes, in a subsequent email communication, cautiously refrained from definitively attributing the incident to Wildlife Services, using the term "allegedly." He reiterated that the helicopter was flying illegally over tribal land and engaged in firing near, though not directly at, the bison herd. Baldes further confirmed the existence of video footage capturing the helicopter and gunfire along with flight path data indicating the helicopter’s transponder was deactivated during its flight near the herd.
This incident underscores the delicate balance between wildlife management and tribal sovereignty. The Eastern Shoshone Tribe’s bison restoration initiative represents a significant step towards cultural revitalization and ecological restoration. The unauthorized aerial hunt, conducted without tribal consent, threatens to undermine these efforts and strain the relationship between the tribe and federal agencies. The lack of transparency and the contradictory statements from USDA Wildlife Services only serve to deepen the concerns surrounding the incident. A thorough investigation and open communication are crucial to resolving this issue and establishing clear guidelines for future collaboration between the tribe and government agencies on matters of wildlife management.
The Eastern Shoshone Tribe’s commitment to restoring bison to their ancestral lands holds immense cultural and ecological significance. Bison played an integral role in the tribe’s history, providing sustenance, clothing, and spiritual connection. The reintroduction of bison aims to revive these traditions and promote the ecological health of the region. The alleged actions of USDA Wildlife Services threaten to disrupt this progress and create a climate of distrust.
Moving forward, it is imperative that USDA Wildlife Services engage in a transparent and respectful dialogue with the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. A thorough investigation into the March 13th incident is necessary to determine the facts and address any potential wrongdoing. Furthermore, clear protocols must be established to ensure that future wildlife management activities are conducted with the full knowledge and consent of the tribe, respecting their inherent sovereignty and protecting their vested interests in the restoration of bison to their ancestral lands.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Native American tribes in asserting their sovereignty and managing their natural resources. It serves as a reminder of the importance of government-to-government consultation and the need for mutual respect in addressing issues that impact tribal communities. The Eastern Shoshone Tribe’s commitment to restoring bison, a culturally significant species, deserves to be supported and not undermined by unilateral actions that disregard tribal sovereignty.
The tribe’s bison restoration initiative represents a crucial step towards restoring ecological balance and cultural revitalization. Bison, as a keystone species, play a vital role in shaping the landscape and maintaining biodiversity. Their presence benefits other species and contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem. For the Eastern Shoshone Tribe, the return of bison holds deep cultural significance, representing a reconnection with their ancestral traditions and a reaffirmation of their identity. The preservation of these cultural and ecological values necessitates a collaborative approach to wildlife management that respects tribal sovereignty and prioritizes the long-term well-being of both the bison and the tribe.
The conflicting accounts of the March 13th incident underscore the need for transparency and accountability. USDA Wildlife Services’ initial response, dismissing the tribe’s claims as misinformation, has done little to allay concerns or foster trust. A thorough and impartial investigation is crucial to determine the facts of the case and hold those responsible accountable for any unauthorized actions. Furthermore, open communication and ongoing dialogue between the agency and the tribe are essential to rebuilding trust and preventing future misunderstandings. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering positive government-to-government relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation.
