Isle Royale

Saguaro

Mammoth Cave

Kobuk Valley

The Recipient is a member of the University of North Dakota who was awarded a Master Cooperative Agreement P16AC00011 allowing The University of North Dakota to participate in specific tasks, and can provide the necessary activities involved in this particular task while providing an effective outcome

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

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for NPS and the objectives of this research/educational project.

This is a modification to include stable isotope analysis with DNA analysis of bison artifacts.

This component will provide information on past bison range and habitat to inform the broader ancient DNA project.

To understand changes in genetic variability over time within bison herds it is important to have some representative measure of past bison ecology.

Stable isotopes preserved in teeth and bones provide information on the amount of warm season and cool season grasses in bison diet.

These are expressed as ratios of stable carbon versus atmospheric carbon.

The carbon ratios can reflect climatic variables across the Great Plains that can be used to understand bison habitat and migration patterns as cool and warm season grasses grow in different percentages based on environmental conditions.

In addition, both the ancient DNA and stable isotope samples are actions that will consume at least a portion of the archeological tooth or bone specimen.

It makes sense to utilize the portions of the same specimens to conducting the stable isotope sampling along with the DNA extractions.

Public Purpose and Substantial Involvement The park biologist and NPS regional archaeologist will provide services as program coordinators and collaborate directly with the PI to develop the research study design and objectives, oversee assignments, provide access to park resources, and disseminate project deliverables to the public and the scientific community.

Student Conservation Association interns will be acquired by TRNP to develop public outreach programs that will disseminate project findings in light of bison conservation initiatives, the experiences of Theodore Roosevelt in the North Dakota Badlands, the NPS mission, and park ecosystem health.

The park biologist, regional NPS archaeologist, and university partners will provide subject matter expertise for development of interpretive programs for pubic audiences.

The volunteer intern, and park interpretive staff, will develop web-based pod casts focusing on the history and management of bison in the Great Plains, and will conduct bison conservation programs for park visitors and travel to provide in-class presentations at local and regional schools.

All of the above will promote a sense of shared resource stewardship with the public.