Muskoxen were eliminated from Alaska in the mid-late 1800s , most-likely due to overhunting. In 1935 and 1936, 31 muskoxen captured in east Greenland were re-introduced to Nunivak Island. That herd grew to 750 by 1968.
The herd in the 1002 Area (like all herds in Alaska) is descended from these animals in Nunivak Island that were re-introduced into that area in 1969 and 1970.
The muskoxen population in the 1002 Area grew rapidly and reached a peak of 400 in 1986 and has since declined to 200 in 2001 due to a steady drop in number of new calves. Indications are that a major cause of this decline is due to increased attacks by grizzly bears.