Bison hike at Prairie State Park June 23

Nevada Daily Mail

Bison once roamed throughout Missouri, but according to the Missouri Department of Conservation, only a few remained by 1840. Overhunting, destruction of habitat, and competition for prairie grass by cattle all contributed to the decline in their numbers.

Today, about 100 of the animal live at Prairie State Park, near Mindenmines, in nearby Barton County; a few others live on private ranges. The MDC considers the herd at Prairie State Park wild.

Visitors will have a unique opportunity to Experience seeing one of the prairie's most magnificent mammals on its native habitat during a bison hike on June 23 at Prairie State Park. Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, this free hike will begin at 10 a.m. at the visitor center.

During the hike, participants will learn about bison biology, Native American uses, herd dynamics, prairies and much more. The hike is estimated to last at least one hour and could last longer depending on the location of the bison herd.

Prairie State Park is located at 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, in Barton County. To register or to get additional information about the event, contact the park at (417) 843-6711. For information about state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.