Clint Sampson, a Book Cliffs biologist, presented the Book Cliffs bison management plan and told the RAC that two committee members were unable to participate but the remainder reached "100% consensus" on the plan. "There were 2 of those individuals that were unable to participate in our committee. The remainder all found consensus, a 100% consensus as we move forward," Sampson said.

RAC members questioned how increased bison numbers might affect elk, deer and other ungulates and whether monitoring thresholds for vegetation and habitat would be part of the plan. Sampson said staff will continue range monitoring and habitat projects and expects permit numbers to remain similar in the short term while allowing the Bitter Creek herd some opportunity to grow.

Members discussed land-use changes, including a private seller moving cattle off the mountain and tribal acquisition that opened more area for bison; Kent added local context explaining that a producer sold cattle leases to the tribe, freeing more space for bison. The RAC moved and unanimously approved the Book Cliffs bison management plan.

Division staff said they will continue adaptive management, maintain monitoring plots and coordinate habitat work with partners to mitigate potential impacts to elk and deer.