ADFG Announces Reduction In Delta Junction Bison Hunt Permits

The following press release is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:

Photo by Lisa Hupp/USFWS

Department Reduces Delta Bison Permits

(Delta Junction, AK) – The department had to reduce the number of permits issued for DI403 and DI404. During recent surveys in the summer of 2024, the department discovered that a significant number of bison died in a single event that appears to be a mass drowning accident. Subsequent surveys indicated the population was even smaller than anticipated, and too small to continue with the planned number of permits issued.

The department attempts to closely manage this population within a narrow range, with an objective of 360 adult bison. Based on survey results, the population cannot sustain the planned harvest, without dropping well below the post-hunt objective. Therefore, the department has reduced the overall number of permits and changed the bag limit to bull only. The last 27 individuals drawn for DI403 and the last 29 individuals drawn for DI404 will not receive a permit for regulatory year 2024. It is necessary that these changes are made to preserve the viability of this herd.

The department understands that the chances of winning a Delta bison permit are extremely low, existing regulations allow residents to be eligible for a permit only once every ten years, and nonresidents once per lifetime. Given these restrictions, the department will ask the Board of Game to consider transferring any DI403 and DI404 permits awarded for the 2024 regulatory year that were subsequently taken away, to be transferred to a future regulatory year (likely 2026). If this permission is granted, this would allow permit winners to hunt Delta bison in a different regulatory year, and at a minimum allow application again with no 10-year or lifetime ineligibility.

Due to a significant number of bison dying in a natural event, and the desire to closely manage this herd for current and future hunting opportunity, management action is necessary. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we do our best to protect this herd and ensure future hunting opportunities. Please contact us if you have any questions.

ContactBob Schmidt, Delta Area Biologist, 907-895-7491, bob.schmidt@alaska.gov