A plasmid based reverse genetics system for Bourbon virus was created. This system and related plasmids allow for the creation of infectious Bourbon virus and evaluate the impact of genetic variation on the virus (replication, disease, antibody-mediated neutralization etc.). It also allows for the creation of reporter viruses and vaccine strains. The plasmid used for this (pHW2000) is frequently used to generate influenza viruses and influenza virus vaccines.