Bison Causes Traffic Jam on U.S. 31 in Michigan

News Summary

A herd of bison escaped from Oleson’s Buffalo Farm, causing a significant traffic jam on U.S. 31 in Garfield Township. Emergency services managed the situation, ensuring no accidents occurred. The incident raised public awareness about wildlife safety on roadways and the importance of animal identification. As social media buzzed with humorous reactions, local law enforcement, and agricultural staff worked together to return the bison peacefully to their pasture.

Traverse City, Michigan – A herd of bison caused a sizable traffic jam on U.S. 31 near McRae Hill Road in Garfield Township on Friday, May 23, 2025, around 11 a.m. The animals escaped from Oleson’s Buffalo Farm, prompting emergency services to respond to multiple reports of bison obstructing the highway. Thankfully, there were no accidents or injuries reported as a result of the animals’ presence on the road.

The Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police quickly arrived at the scene to manage traffic and ensure the safety of motorists. Meanwhile, a herder from the nearby buffalo farm collaborated with law enforcement to round up the bison and return them safely to their pasture. The highway was reopened shortly after the herd was successfully herded away from the busy roadway.

Initially, reports from the public referred to the animals as buffalo. However, officials later confirmed that the animals were bison, which are often kept on farms in Michigan even though they are not native to the region. This distinction highlights the importance of accurate animal identification in agricultural practices and public safety measures.

Public Response and Social Media Buzz

As news of the bison traffic jam spread, the Grand Traverse 911 Facebook page issued an advisory alerting motorists to slow down in the area and noting that there was no need for further calls, as units were already deployed to handle the situation. The unique incident led to a flurry of humorous comments and memes circulating on social media, with residents sharing laughs while tagging safety reminders for encountering large animals near roads.

Background on Bison in Michigan

Bison farming is a growing trend in Michigan, with several farms across the state raising these large animals for meat, fiber, and conservation purposes. Although bison were once indigenous to the region, they were hunted to near extinction in the 19th century. Today, bison are being raised in captivity, contributing to agricultural diversity and offering alternatives for consumers interested in natural meats.

This incident serves not only as a humorous anecdote for the community but also emphasizes the importance of being aware of wildlife and farm animals on roadways. As agriculture continues to integrate into suburban and urban areas, drivers are reminded to remain vigilant, especially in regions where agricultural activities intersect with traffic.

Ultimately, the coordinated efforts of local law enforcement, emergency services, and agricultural staff ensured that the situation was resolved without any harm to either the bison or the drivers on U.S. 31. As farm animals like bison roam near human habitats, it is crucial for both farmers and motorists to prioritize safety and awareness.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• MLive: Multiple bison escape farm
• Wikipedia: Bison
• CBS News: Bison blocks traffic
• Google Search: Bison traffic Michigan
• Up North Live: Bison escape pasture
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bison
• OutKick: Bison on the loose
• Google News: Bison escaped Michigan