Preserving a Prairie Icon

In the story of American conservation, few animals embody resilience quite like the bison. As our National Mammal, the bison represents not only our nation's heritage but also our commitment to preservation and renewal. Once roaming the plains in herds as massive as the horizon, these animals were nearly driven to extinction by the end of the 19th century. But the bison’s story didn’t end there. Through tireless efforts by conservationists, Native American tribes, and environmental groups, bison populations have rebounded, allowing them to reclaim their place in the landscape.

Here at LC Nature Park, our bison represent this incredible story of survival. Bison play a crucial role in shaping the land by grazing in a way that promotes biodiversity and sustains healthy grasslands. Their movements create microhabitats, supporting various plant and animal species. We see the effects of this every day, as our prairie comes to life under the guidance of these gentle giants, creating a balanced ecosystem that reflects what North America’s grasslands once were.

National Bison Day was a powerful reminder of the legacy and impact of these animals. Over 700 people came out to the park, joining us for a day of celebration, exploration, and learning. It was inspiring to see families, children, and friends discovering the beauty of these animals and understanding their role in our shared environment. The joy on visitors’ faces as they encountered the bison up close reminded us why we do this work.

We are so grateful to everyone who made National Bison Day special, and especially to those who contributed to our Day of Giving. Your support is what keeps LC Nature Park thriving, allowing us to provide sanctuary for bison and other wildlife while offering a space for people to reconnect with nature. 

As we head into the season of giving, we invite you to reflect on the importance of preserving such spaces. The bison reminds us that nature, even when battered, has the power to heal and inspire us. This year, our end-of-year giving campaign is dedicated to supporting the park as a restorative refuge for people and wildlife alike, and we hope you’ll join us in that mission.

Thank you for helping us preserve the legacy of the bison and for being a part of LC Nature Park. With your help, we look forward to many more years of growth, resilience, and connection.