How It Works
For optimum health and well being, bison require large spaces to roam,
forage, and reproduce. Given the current financial situation, purchasing,
managing, and maintaining a ranch large enough to provide a herd of bison
with the freedom they need is nearly impossible for one person. But if a
number of us went together and pooled our talents and resources, we could
do the impossible. Each shareholder would have ownership and access to an
expansive wildlife preserve without having to borrow large sums and without
paying unrealistic interest.
I foresee a partnership of individuals who have come together and as a
partnership own and manage a portion of the great plains, large enough to be
reminiscent of the day when these prairies were swarming with buffalo.
In forming a Limited Liability Corporation an individual who so wishes can
buy a share in this project, thereby taking part in restoring the High Plains
and the bison on a much larger scale than otherwise feasible.
Unfortunately, if left alone, the bison would reproduce to the point of
overpopulating the given area, and cause harm to the earth through
overgrazing, which would in turn result in starvation of the herd. As difficult
as it may be for some to accept, an occasional thinning of the herd is
required. To the benefit of both tatanka and Native American tribes, this
harvest of excess animals was done for eons. The hunts must continue.
So with the ownership of a share in Tatanka Winds LLC, an individual would
be granted the occasional hunt, mostly full grown two year old bulls not
needed for breeding. These hunts would take place in the fall and early winter
when hides are prime and animals are at their peak condition. These hunts
could coincide with other popular seasons, such as antelope and deer, to
accommodate anyone traveling from a distance.
A foreman will be hired to oversee the ranch and to organize events. As the
owner of a share of the project, one would have continual access to the ranch
land for hunting, family vacations, horse back riding, hiking, etc.
Shareholders will be encouraged to help with projects whenever possible, be it
fencing or roundups. Ideally, most additional labor will be donated by
shareholders, but for other expenses, ie. real estate taxes, ranch income from
heifer sales will be used.
Three varying shares will be offered to best suit each individual's situation,
depending whether a quadrennial hunt, a biennial hunt, or an annual hunt is
desired.
