For the first time in decades, bison – the animal – are returning to Bison – the community.
To mark the release, a gathering with music and art has been scheduled.
Bison once roamed in herds thousands strong across the West, but over hunting and a lack of conservation had the animal on the brink of extinction. Much of that damage has healed, yet there is still work to do.
That’s why advocates say releases like the one scheduled in Perkins County are such powerful symbols. Folk musician and writer - and occasional SDPB contributor - Eliza Blue is organizing the event.
“We are calling it “welcoming our new neighbors,” Blue said. "So, he has a little ranch just outside of town limits, he’s bringing a small herd of yearling heifers to be released June 1. My organization the Kithship Collective were just really excited and inspired by him and the project. So, we wanted to help him out by hosting a music and art festival.”
The animals are being released by rancher Sion Hanson.
More than just a symbol of local culture, bison also represent an important ecological regulator.
“Obviously, bison are huge keystone species for the prairie ecosystem," Blue said. "The work of the grazing ruminant is being don here in Western South Dakota by cattle – which is great – but there are still things bison do that are just so great for this ecosystem.”
All this creates a celebration of the animals return.
“There’s going to be music, and there’s going to be artists talking," Blue said. "We just want anyone who’s interested to come and hang out. It’s more of a gathering than a concert. Just an opportunity for people to get together and build community.”
The event is Saturday at 310 West Main St. in the town of Bison and will be held between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.