![Eleven genetically rare bison were released into Minneopa State Park west of Mankato as part of the newest efforts by the DNR and Minnesota Zoo to expand the Minnesota Conservation Bison Herd. this Bison range at Minneopa State Park encompasses 330 acres surrounded by nearly 5 miles of fencing. The herd will eventually be sustained at a 30-40 animals. Visitors to the park will be able to drive through the range on a park road that will let you get close to the bison. ] Brian.Peterson@startribune](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/TYABL4FAF6LAUK4H3RA33LCA5Q.jpg?&w=1080)
The hours of the bison range road at Minneopa State Park in Mankato get shorter next week.
Owing to the season's diminishing daylight, the range road will be open from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., beginning Sunday. The drive is closed for road work Wednesdays. The park suggests people take advantage of the Seppmann Mill overlook to spot bison, which were released at the park in September 2015.
The bison herd's movement there from Blue Mounds State Park in Luverne, Minn., is part of a collaborative effort between the state Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Zoo that began in 2012. Part of the preservation plan is to grow the current herd at Blue Mounds to 500 animals, which will then occupy several locations. Minneopa was the first to take on some of the herd. There currently are 14 bison; three calves were born in April.
More information at dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks.
Bob Timmons
