As former V.P. of the Catalina Conservancy, I administratively oversaw the formerly annual roundup and shipment of the bison. Now we do it every other year due to the time and costs involved. It is important to cull the herd to reasonable levels to ensure they do minimal damage to the native ecosystems, but are there for visitors and residents to enjoy.
My opinion is that the island isn't good for the bison (due to reversed vegetation peaks and calf nursing periods). However there are economic factors that dominate this debate.
My personal opinion of Bill Dyer and the IDA is that they employ deceptive methods and mediaa ttacks to bolster donations to the organization. Bill Dyer may have sincere feelings for the animals, but he has shown what in the opinion of several here was disregard for the truth, for the integrity of others, etc. For example he had a talk radio host call me at my home while I was still in bed, then attack me by surprise after I made a statement (not knowing he was there). Another example is that the IDA violated several oral and a written agreement, although they felt we (the Conservancy) had.
At least the situation is a potential "win win" with the bison getting new homes more in line ecologically with their former range, and the island limits the numbers present here.
Time to dive!
Dr. Bill