How many elk would the Department release if the plan is approved?
The exact number of elk, as well as the final population goal, would depend on the specific location chosen for the restoration and the carrying capacity of available habitat. Our draft plan, which has yet to be approved by the Conservation Commission, calls for a limited release of 80-150 cow and bull elk in early 2011. The 2000 Elk Reintroduction Feasibility Study identified 365 square miles around the Peck Ranch Conservation Area in Carter, Reynolds and Shannon counties in southeast Missouri as being suitable. The experience of other states would also play a role.
