Buffaloes

For me, the most interesting topic we covered this week was the decline of the buffaloes in the plains. I had always been under the impression that the decline of the great buffalo herds in the plains was due almost entirely because of commercial hunters. While there is little doubt that this did play a part, it was surprising to learn of the Micro Riverine Environment and the grass cycles. Added to this was the huge population increase of travelers, horses, and oxen in the region.
While the decline of the great buffalo herds is still a tragic event, I guess there is the positive aspect that it was not due entirely to the "sport" and wastefulness of the European settlers in the region. I realize that this can barely be seen as a positive, but it is to me at least better than thinking of mass slaughters of such a valuable resource to the plains.