The American bison, an icon of the American West, very nearly went extinct in the late 1800s due to overhunting. But today, bison have bounced back in a big way. These majestic creatures are now being recognized as unlikely heroes in the fight against climate change.
According to a recent article in The Washington Post, the return of bison to the Great Plains and other grasslands is helping restore deteriorated prairie ecosystems. How? As the large ruminants graze, they stimulate growth of native grasses. Their hooves work fertilizer into the soil. And their waste helps enhance the microbial health of the soil.
All of this aids in significant carbon sequestration, potentially offsetting 2-5% of the greenhouse gas emissions from the livestock industry each year. Bison grazing also encourages biodiversity, provides habitat for other species, and helps prairie lands recover from wildfires faster.
At Dive Into Nature, we believe in honoring and learning from the wisdom of nature that has sustained us for centuries. Part of our mission is bringing back heritage breeds like bison to restore health to degraded lands. When stewarded holistically using practices aligned with their natural behaviors, livestock can enrich rather than erode our ecosystems.
Bison serve as a powerful reminder that our climate solutions already exist within the earth’s own processes. If we create the space for nature to thrive, the land and wildlife will reciprocate - locking away carbon, enhancing biodiversity, and restoring balance. Our nonprofit aims to continue expanding bison grazing areas through our conservation partnerships across the country. Because with open prairies and good stewardship, the climate change heroes can get back to work. One of our first projects is underway in Idaho! Stay tuned for more details and, as always, please donate! We have a huge undertaking and every penny helps!!