DeSoto, MO
Join us on Nov 11th to learn more about bison farming in DeSoto, Missouri.
During the early 19th century, it was estimated that 30 million bison thrived in North America. Due to colonization, the hide industry, diseases from domesticated cattle, and the intentional extermination efforts of the US government, the bison population nearly faced extinction by the turn of the 20th century. During the most recent century, a concerted effort has taken place to protect the species and restore the bison population.
Known & Grown farmer, Peggy Ladd of Klondike Bison & Bee, starting reintroducing bison to her family farm in 2019. Come ready to lend a hand as this is a working field day. We will be assisting Peggy with clearing fence lines of brush and old barbed wire. The bison will be secured in a corral at this time, so you are guaranteed to see them from a safe distance. We’ll conclude the day by gathering around a fire and enjoying a communal potluck featuring bison chili where you’ll have a chance for continued discussion. Bring your favorite side dish or snack to share! Peggy will have some of her bison products on hand to sample as well.
What to bring: work gloves (light weight leather are great!), water bottle, potluck dish to share
Optional tools: Any of the following are welcome if you have them, battery operated weed whackers, hedgers, or loppers
Schedule:
- 9:45 am – Arrival/Welcome
- 10:00 am– ***Mandatory Safety Briefing***
- 10:15 am-12:30 pm – Community work on the farm
- 12:30-2:00 pm – Gather around the fire for potluck and discussion
Upon arrival, follow the signs past the bees and park near the barns. We will have folks to direct you. The safety briefing at 10:00am is mandatory for participation. Children age 10+ are welcome to work alongside a parent/guardian. Due to the nature of the work, we do not recommend bringing children under the age of 10.
Klondike Bison & Bee reintroduced bison to the family farm in 2019 and bees in 2020. They raise and treat their animals with kindness and respect. Klondike Bison & Bee joined Known & Grown in 2022.