Bison and Texas State Parks
ParkChat
Q1 #ParkChat Our crack research staff has identified 23 public bison herds scattered over 19 states (there could be more). Is there one in your state? If so, name and describe it please. How many different herds have you seen in your travels? @Donald_Beard @Wild_Tribute
Q2: #ParkChat There are many connections that people have had with bison in the past. How would you describe the connections you’ve observed and what universal connections do you think visitors still experience?
Q3: #ParkChat The Texas State Bison Herd is considered the last vestige of the southern herd of southern plains bison. Do you think the overall makeup of the herd and their behavior has changed over the years due to increased human intervention?
Q4 #ParkChat Caprock Canyons and the southern plains have been home to bison for thousands of years. The Texas State Bison Herd and lands managed by the TPWD are protected through conservation. In what ways has this native habitat changed?
Q5: #ParkChat As the Official Bison Herd of the state of Texas, do you think visitors recognize the herd as a unique resource? What can we do to help visitors further appreciate both the scientific and cultural importance of the Texas State Bison Herd?
Q6: #ParkChat Bison and human interactions have taken place at Caprock Canyons State Park for at least the last 10,000 years as documented by the Lake Theo Folsom Bison Kill archeological site. Those interactions have changed over time, but what, if any have stayed the same?
Q7 #ParkChat In the Caprock Canyons area, a conflict known as the Red River Wars occurred in the late 1800s between settlers and Native Americans. What contribution do you think bison had in this conflict? How do you believe bison have helped shape our nation and its history?
Q8 #ParkChat Recently, negative bison/human interactions have been in the news. This has led many people to believe that bison are the most dangerous wildlife to encounter while visiting a park. What would you tell a first time visitor about Caprock and its free-roaming bison?
Q9 #ParkChat Texas State Parks offer visitors an amazing opportunity for wildlife and nature viewing. With the recent surge in visitation and increased pressure, how should these public lands be managed in order to ensure the resources are safeguarded for future generations?
Q10: #ParkChat As a new generation, and in a sense, a new culture of park visitors emerge, how can Texas State Parks continue to be relevant to them and instill a sense of stewardship for its varied resources?
Q11. Buffalo Trace. These two words always remind of us of the fate of our National Mammal. Once a mile wide, now seen here and there. What’s the fate of #morebisonplease? #ParkChat