Come join fellow alums, family, and friends to hear about Dr. Jen Barfield’s work with the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd in the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area (north of Ft. Collins). This bison herd is unique as it has successfully addressed three key challenges to bison conservation: genetics, disease and habitat. Dr. Barfield is a professor at Colorado State University, specializing in assisted reproduction technologies for large animals. As the lead on the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd project, she was responsible for the conception and birth of the first bison calf in the world using reproductive material from animals in the Yellowstone National Park population.

The Soapstone Prairie Natural Area itself is extraordinary. With over 28 square miles of wide-open vistas, nearly pristine grasslands, miles of trails, and world-renowned cultural resources. Soapstone Prairie Natural Area has no entrance fee or parking fee. No dogs are allowed.

We will be meeting in a covered picnic area that offers parking, toilet facilities, and viewing points. Please note that as you approach Soapstone Prairie, there are nine miles of gravel road that can be dusty, rough, and bumpy. More details about the meeting place and directions will be provided closer to the date.

• What: Bison Talk

• When: Sunday, June 9, 10 am – 12 pm

• Where: Soapstone Prairie Natural Area, (approximate address) 22998 Rawhide Flats Road, Wellington, CO

• Cost: $5 per family or group

• RSVP by Thursday, June 6

For questions, please email rmgoldenbears@gmail.com or contact Christa Edwards at 720-384-7458.

For resources about the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area:

• https://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/finder/soapstone

• https://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/files/soapstone-prairie-natural-area-brochure-web.pdf?1618921768