Bison ranching in South Dakota enhances the prairie ecosystem, supports biodiversity, and fosters community engagement while prioritizing sustainable practices and conservation.
Production Partner @YanasaTV
Ecological Impact
777 Bison Ranch in South Dakota has been using bison ranching since the early 1980s to restore the Prairie, resulting in the return of diverse native grasses, insects, birds, and bees, enhancing overall biodiversity.
Bison are considered the "missing link" in Prairie restoration, facilitating the revival of native species like the stemless hon Oxys be candle be candle (tsula), which holds cultural significance for Native Americans.
Sustainable Practices
The ranch partners with beekeepers, offering diverse landscapes for bees in exchange for honey, emphasizing the importance of pollinators in their ecosystem.
Producing 100% grass-fed bison, certified by a third party, provides a consistent protein supply to the American market year-round while aligning with sustainable agriculture principles.
Management and Community Engagement
The ranch's success relies on a three-person team - Morts (PR), Cody (herdsman), and Justin (infrastructure) - whose diverse skills and mutual respect foster effective collaboration.
Community engagement through volunteer work and educational initiatives promotes understanding of sustainable ranching practices and biodiversity conservation.
00:00 Bison ranching in South Dakota revitalizes the prairie ecosystem and supports native species.
01:27 Native Americans valued the red root scurf pea, or tsula, for its edible tubers, which were dried for winter and showcased the area's rich biodiversity.
02:25 Restoring native grasses and biodiversity on the ranch has revitalized insect and bird populations, demonstrating the positive impact of planned grazing.
03:46 By managing the land for biodiversity, ranchers create a thriving environment for pollinators like bees, benefiting both the ecosystem and their partnership with beekeepers.
04:35 Engaging with the community through education and holistic management showcases the importance and diversity of grasslands and ranching.
05:50 A dedicated team of ranchers collaborates effectively to manage a thriving bison herd and maintain ranch infrastructure while supporting each other's growth and learning.
07:29 Ranchers prioritize grass-fed practices for bison, embracing authenticity and happiness over profit while meeting consumer demand for consistent protein products.
08:56 Conservation of bison relies on assigning value to them through consumption, as financial support for ranching promotes biodiversity and sustainable practices.