At the heart of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge lies an awe-inspiring herd of bison. Once near extinction, these iconic creatures now thrive in the carefully managed habitats of the Nature Center, providing visitors with a glimpse into our natural history and the importance of conservation efforts. However, you might have noticed that spotting these magnificent animals isn’t always guaranteed during your visit. This unpredictability is not due to the bison’s elusive nature but rather a deliberate management strategy known as rotational grazing. Here’s why.
Rotational grazing is a practice employed by land stewards to mimic the natural movement patterns of wild herbivores, such as bison, while simultaneously promoting healthy ecosystems. Instead of confining the herd to a single location, our Refuge team divides the grazing area into five distinct pastures of varying sizes. Each pasture is carefully monitored and managed to ensure that the bison graze in a specific location for varying periods of time before being rotated to the next. This rotational pattern allows the grazed areas to recover and regenerate, promoting the growth of diverse plant species and maintaining soil health. By mimicking the bison’s natural movement patterns, rotational grazing benefits the ecosystem and enhances the herd’s well-being. It also provides the bison with a varied diet, reduces the risk of overgrazing, and minimizes soil erosion.
While this management strategy is undoubtedly beneficial for the overall health of the Refuge, it does mean that the bison may not always be visible during your visit. As they roam across the pastures, the bison might be grazing in an area away from the main trails or resting in a secluded spot. We encourage you to embrace the spirit of exploration during your visit. Take a leisurely hike along our scenic trails, keeping an eye out for signs of bison activity, such as tracks, wallows, or grazing areas. And if luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures as they roam the landscape of the Nature Center.
Rotational grazing isn’t just about managing the bison herd; it’s about fostering a balanced and resilient ecosystem where wildlife and native plants can thrive. So, the next time you visit, remember that the bison may be just around the corner, grazing in a pasture that’s currently out of sight — but never out of mind.
