In addition to their efforts to restore and protect the tallgrass prairie ecosystem in Iowa, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City is working to restore bison and elk populations in the state.

According to Visitor Services Intern Madison Zink, bison and elk used to be prominent in the region, but have gone nearly extinct in Iowa. Zink says the refuge is working to reintroduce the animals into their natural habitat and currently has a herd of 62 bison and a herd of 19 elk. 

“So bison and elk used to be animals that were plentiful and native to Iowa, however through hunting and the loss of their habitat they have gone virtually extinct in Iowa. However, we’re trying to bring them back to their natural habitat and visitors have a chance to get up close and personal with these animals with our five mile auto tour. So they can drive through their 400 acre enclosure and possibly get the chance to see these animals in the wild as they drive through.”

Hear more from Madison Zink on today’s In Touch with South Central Iowa.