North Yellowstone Education Foundation PROJECT BRIEF

In the gateway community of Gardiner, where wildlife regularly moves between town and Yellowstone National Park, the local school’s track and field had become a frequent gathering place for elk and bison. This created safety concerns for students, athletes and community members while increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict. With support from Vital Ground, the North Yellowstone Education Foundation completed a wildlife-conscious exclusion fence around the Gardiner Public School field, along with an escape ramp to help any animals that enter the area exit safely.

The new fencing has successfully kept large wildlife off the field, allowing sports practices, games and community recreation to take place without conflict. The project has improved safety for students and residents, prevented injuries and created a more welcoming space for daily use, all while encouraging wildlife to remain in nearby natural habitat. Backed by a coalition of local partners, this community-driven project demonstrates how practical infrastructure can support coexistence in one of the most wildlife-rich landscapes in the country.