Bison Conservation and Management

The video features Duke Phillips discussing the management of Mana Ranch in Colorado, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy. It highlights the challenges of managing a large bison herd sustainably, the process of gathering bison on horseback, and the role of ranchers in conservation. Duke shares personal insights on the importance of balancing conservation with economic needs and reflects on the endangered status of bison. The video concludes with thoughts on the future of ranching and conservation.

What is the primary goal of the partnership between Mana Ranch and The Nature Conservancy?

• To develop new agricultural techniques

• To increase the number of bison on the ranch

• To expand the ranch's territory

• To manage the land sustainably and conserve wildlife

Why is it necessary to manage the size of the bison herd at Mana Ranch?

• To reduce the workload of the ranchers

• To allow more space for other wildlife

• To increase the ranch's profits

• To prevent overgrazing and ensure enough food for the bison

What method is primarily used to move the bison during the gathering process?

• On horseback

• With drones

• Using vehicles

• By foot

What is a significant risk when moving the bison herd?

• The terrain is dangerous for the riders

• The bison might become aggressive

• The bison might escape into neighboring properties

• The bison might refuse to move

What is a key challenge mentioned in the bison gathering process?

• The bison are not used to being handled

• The bison are easily distracted

• The bison are too tame

• The bison are too slow

What has changed in the role of ranchers according to Duke Phillips?

• They have reduced their involvement in land management

• They have stopped working with conservation organizations

• They have become stewards of the land

• They now focus solely on raising beef

What is the estimated number of bison currently in North America?

• 80,000

• 50,000

• 20,000

• 100,000

Why is bison conservation important according to the video?

• Bison are easy to manage

• Bison are a major food source

• Bison are extremely endangered

• Bison are a symbol of American history

What personal connection does Duke Phillips feel towards the land?

• He plans to develop it into a city

• He wants to sell it for profit

• He feels honored to be entrusted with its care

• He sees it as a business opportunity

What is the ultimate goal of the ranching and conservation efforts at Mana Ranch?

• To eliminate all predators

• To balance conservation with economic needs

• To convert the land into a national park

• To maximize the number of bison