Hard winter makes for long elk-feeding season at Wyoming refuge

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By The Associated Press

Story Published: May 11, 2008 at 6:21 PM MST

Story Updated: May 11, 2008 at 6:21 PM MST

CHEYENNE, WYOMING - The National Elk Refuge provided supplemental feeding for elk and bison for nearly a month longer than average this year as the animals sought sustenance during the harsh winter.

The refuge near Jackson put out more than 8.4 million pounds of alfalfa pellets over 98 days ending April 20. Only once in the past 27 years did feeding continue past that date.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department also extended its feeding on most of its feeding grounds. There were about 8,000 elk and 900 bison on the refuge this winter. Both refuge officials and local conservation groups warn that the congregation of thousands of animals concentrated in a small area enhances the risk of a disease outbreak.

Refuge manager Steve Kallin says the refuge is working with other agencies to reduce the size of the elk population and increase the amount of natural forage with the goal of reducing the feeding program.

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