CUSTER, S.D. – This year’s Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup was about more than tradition and tourism. Park officials say ongoing drought conditions have led to a larger-than-usual reduction of the park’s bison herd ahead of winter.
Officials estimate about 612 bison will be sold during the park’s annual November auction, up significantly from the 435 animals sold last year. The increase comes as severe drought has reduced available forage, prompting managers to lower the herd to about 900 animals for the winter.
Park staff say the annual roundup allows the herd to receive health checks and vaccinations while helping ensure the grasslands can support wildlife through the colder months. At one point this spring, conditions were so dry that officials considered conducting an emergency summer sale.
The Buffalo Roundup continues to be one of South Dakota’s premier tourism events, drawing roughly 24,000 visitors each year to watch riders guide the herd into corrals. The event also provides a major economic boost for nearby Custer, where local businesses report strong visitor traffic throughout the season.
Park officials say while the roundup has become a bucket-list attraction for visitors from around the world, its primary purpose remains responsible management of one of the nation’s largest publicly owned bison herds.
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