The Cowessess First Nation’s importation request for bison from Yellowstone National Park was rejected by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

The agency denied the request from the Cowessess First Nation due to the bison requiring bovine tuberculosis testing.

The Fort Peck Indian Reservation is gifting Cowessess First Nation 20 Yellowstone bison for the community.

Gary Pelletier, Project Manager of the Bison Reintroduction Program for the Cowessess First Nation, says the government agencies are working together to figure out a solution that satisfies both parties