Bored to death

I read that a bull bison was killed for mingling with cattle. In Wyoming, bison and cattle have intermingled over 40 years without incident. Why? Because bison don't transmit brucellosis.

I'm bored to death hearing how brucellosis needs eradicating.

APHIS says the disease is commonly spread through direct contact with an infected animal. Are hunters aware they need to glove, mask and gown up before field dressing? If brucellosis is so dangerous, why aren't elk included in the quarantine program?

Mr. Broder of the Montana Stockgrowers Association says it could cost ranchers both in terms of trade with buyers in other states and cattle testing. Of course it would. But, what about the millions of dollars taxpayers are already spending on hazing, capturing, quarantining, testing, transporting, slaughtering, monitoring, supplies, feed and man hours in quarantine facility, fuel costs, buyouts, etc. The list is endless.

The bison management plan states that "in the event of a transmission, only a portion of the state would be downgraded, resulting in less severe economic impacts than for a full-state downgrade. (This screams re-zone.)

"Interstate limits on Montana producers' ability to market livestock may come about from actions of state veterinarians whose states import Montana cattle and see Yellowstone bison as a potential threat. In response to this possible threat, the modified preferred alternative includes a commitment by APHIS to work with Montana to educate any state indicating it would take such action and convince them that such sanctions are unwarranted."

Need I say more?

Karrie Taggart

West Yellowstone

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