Investigation of Regional and Local Management at Badlands National Park

We investigated allegations that a National Park Service (NPS) supervisory natural resource specialist removed a sickly buffalo calf from Badlands National Park (BADL) and brought it to his home, where it later died, and whether NPS management involuntarily transferred now-former NPS district ranger from Minute Man Missile National Historic Site (MIMI) to BADL. 

 

Our investigation confirmed that the supervisory natural resource specialist, with supervisory approval, removed the buffalo calf from the park and brought it to his home, an action that violated NPS policy and State and Federal law. We also confirmed that NPS management went against NPS’ procedure of using performance appraisals, verbal or written warnings, and progressive discipline to address poor work performance or misconduct by instead directing the involuntary transfer of the former NPS district manager from MIMI to BADL. 

 

This is a summary of an investigative report that was issued internally to NPS.