May 8, 2026 (Rapid City, SD) – Bison enthusiasts across the country are gearing up to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 10‑year anniversary of the bison being named the official National Mammal of the United States. This anniversary arrives at a meaningful moment, as our Nation also prepares to mark its 250th birthday — a perfect pairing of heritage, resilience, and American identity.
As a keystone species, bison shape and sustain the landscapes they roam. Their presence enriches grasslands, supports biodiversity, and reflects a conservation story unlike any other. The National Mammal designation honors not only the ecological power of these “ecosystem engineers,” but also the cultural, historical, and economic significance they hold for Tribal Nations, ranchers, conservationists, and communities across the country.
On May 9, 2016, President Barack Obama signed the bipartisan Bison Legacy Act, officially recognizing the North American bison as our National Mammal. The legislation celebrated the species’ extraordinary recovery from near extinction and acknowledged its deep ties to Indigenous peoples, its role in shaping the American West, and its growing importance in regenerative agriculture and conservation.
The effort to secure this designation was led by a broad coalition, including the National Bison Association (NBA), the InterTribal Buffalo Council (ITBC), and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) — a testament to the shared commitment to honoring and protecting this iconic species.
Throughout the year, communities nationwide will host “Bison‑tennial” celebrations, bringing people together to reflect on the bison’s past, celebrate its present, and look toward a vibrant future. The NBA is proud to join partners, producers, and Tribal Nations in recognizing the bison’s enduring legacy and its rightful place as the National Mammal of the United States.