By Scout Nelson
Ranching operations in the Great Plains are increasingly affected by changing climatic conditions, particularly bison ranching, which relies heavily on natural ecosystems. Climate projections indicate that by the 2050s, the western half of South Dakota will experience significantly more hot and humid days. Specifically, the Badlands region may see around 70 days each summer with heat indices exceeding 90°F, and approximately 25 days where the index surpasses 100°F. This is a dramatic shift from the 1990s, when temperatures above 100°F were recorded only three times each summer.
To assist producers and ranchers in adapting to these changes, South Dakota State University (SDSU) has teamed up with the University of Colorado Boulder. UC Boulder has secured a five-year, $7.39 million cooperative agreement with the United States Geological Survey to establish the North Central Climate Adaptation Science Center.
Jeff Martin, assistant professor of bison biology and management at SDSU and the nation's leading bison Extension specialist, will lead SDSU’s role in the project. He aims to equip bison managers with essential tools, strategies, and information to adapt their operations effectively.
"Building ecological resilience on working lands requires a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that I’m pleased to be part of with this program," Martin stated.
Martin’s research will focus on quantifying the physiological responses of bison to climate changes, evaluating management practices, and offering Extension resources to bison managers nationwide.
His efforts are expected to aid in the recovery of bison populations in North America, which currently number around 400,000, with South Dakota housing the largest population at nearly 40,000.
"Bison restoration requires healthy, happy bison herds," Martin emphasized. He plans to work with tribal partners on water availability and drought issues while fostering new connections for bison-related topics.
The North Central Climate Adaptation Science Center is one of nine regional centers designed to assist land and resource managers in adapting to climate challenges. The center aims to advance actionable science for fish, wildlife, water, land, and communities across the North Central region, including Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, and Nebraska.
Other project partners include Colorado State University, the University of Wyoming, The Nature Conservancy, the University of Montana, and the Great Plains Tribal Water Alliance.
Photo Credit:south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Weather