What's New
October 2011 Ferret Release (with video)
posted on: November 18nd, 2011
Students releasing Black-footed Ferrets in Grasslands National Park
©Parks Canada
"Almost lost forever. The black-footed ferret is re-discovering the Canadian prairies. See the thrill of the Prairie Learning Centre students as they have a once in a lifetime experience assisting Parks Canada biologists in releasing these "prairie bandits" into Grasslands National Park."
Click here for more information and a video about the release!
"Find The Baby Bison" Contest!
posted on: November 2nd, 2011
Find the baby bison on our website!
© Royal Ontario Museum
The Bison Collaborative, comprising the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), the Toronto Zoo, Parks Canada, and Earth Rangers, launches an interactive contest and educational initiative to enlighten Canadians about bison, the grasslands where they live, and the role we all play as stewards of the Earth.
“Our Government is thrilled to participate in this contest,” said the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. “Two hundred years ago, seeing a bison may have been a commonplace occurrence for children of the plains. Today we are fortunate that there are places like Grasslands National Park where we can still experience the awe and wonder of seeing these magnificent creatures in their native habitat. We are proud to be a part of making that meaningful experience possible.”
Learn more about the contest here, and try to find the baby bison hidden on the Grasslands National Park website to enter!
Bison Update - 2011
posted on: September 13th, 2011
A newly born calf
© Johane Janelle
The Grassland National Park plains bison population came through the end of one of the most severe winters on record in excellent condition. Calving began with the first calf produced on 25 April 2011 (two days earlier than in 2010). By the time July arrived there were at least 60 calves produced. Otherwise the population has continued to thrive and to exceed expectations in population growth. The population may be fragmenting from one large maternal herd, to three sub-herds that form after the rut and prior to the onset of winter. This natural progression to smaller herds is an expected result of increasing population size, and will, eventually lead to bison occupying a larger area of the West Block. After the 2011 calving season the population is about 250 animals. The expected 2012 calf crop is estimated to be 76 calves, and this will bring the herd to about 326 bison by the fall of 2012.
With GPS technology, we can find the exact location of the bison! Stop by the Visitor Reception Centre in Val Marie to get an update on where they are. Check out our page on Bison Safety Information.
First Wild-Born Black-Footed Ferrets
Two Black-footed Ferrets
© Mike Lockhart/ US Fish and Wildlife
Government of Canada celebrates first wild-born black-footed ferrets in Grasslands National Park. Learn more.
McGowan’s Campground
A cooking shelter at McGowan’s Campround
© Parks Canada, Geoff Delves
Grasslands National Park was fortunate enough to receive funding from the Canadian Economic Action Plan. This is going to support the improvement of McGowan’s campground. A beautiful bridge has been built going across Rock Creek. Visitors will now be able to safely access the park on the other side of the river. Be sure to check out the Red Buttes!
A cooking shelter is also in progress. The foundation was poured and construction should begin at the end of November. This new building will allow campers to use camp stoves during the fire season.
Stay tuned for more information!