What was a significant concern regarding the bison population in the Saskatchewan District?

A significant concern regarding the bison population in the Saskatchewan District was that it was decreasing. During the 19th century, bison herds were essential to the Indigenous peoples' way of life, providing food, clothing, and shelter. However, as settlers expanded into the prairies, overhunting became rampant, primarily driven by market demand for bison hides and meat. This unchecked hunting led to a dramatic decline in bison numbers, threatening their existence and disrupting the ecological balance of the region.

The decrease in the bison population had profound implications, not only for the environment but also for the cultures and economies of the Indigenous peoples who relied on them. Conservation efforts began to emerge as the realization of the bison's endangered status became clear, highlighting the need to protect remaining populations. While the options touch on other aspects of the bison situation, the primary and significant issue of concern was indeed the drastic reduction in their numbers due to various external pressures.