“If one way be better than another, that you may be sure is nature’s way.”
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The bison herd grazes contentedly on Darrel Meister’s property north of McCook, Neb. He has worked extensively to restore soil health on this land for the past 10 years.
Submitted photo
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Darrel Meister has a special connection with nature, especially with the animals under his care.
Midwest Messenger photo by Kristen Sindelar
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Meister considers bison to be the athlete of the bovine world.
Midwest Messenger photo by Kristen Sindelar
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Bison are part of “nature’s way” for Meister in controlling invasive species and restoring native grassland on his land north of McCook, Neb.
Midwest Messenger photo by Kristen Sindelar
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Bison impact the land differently than cattle, often beneficially. “They enhance the native prairies like nothing else can do,” South Dakota Rancher John Cammack said.
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Low-stress management is achieved through a special working facility that Darrel Meister made. Here, he shows how the crash cage works on the chute purchased from Emerson Equipment.
Midwest Messenger photo by Kristen Sindelar
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Heidi is the oldest cow and matriarch of the bison herd.
Midwest Messenger photo by Kristen Sindelar
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Spry, red-coated calves with nubbins for horns frolicked around their burly mothers grazing contentedly in the sea of grass. In the distance, a husky bull stood alone, stoically overlooking the prairie atop a hill.
Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com .
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