Develop a group consensus that could be submitted as an amicus curiae (friend of court) brief to a judge assigned to rule on the merits of implementing a Buffalo Commons proposal.  Be sure to add your names at the end of the statement.

    Our group discussed many things that are key points to the Buffalo Commons proposal. We think that buffalo don't have enough land as it is, but the little farms help the economy tremendously. They lead in our countries production in wheat, barley, oats, flaxseed, dry edible beans, canola, sunflower, and dry edible peas. The families have great reason to stay despite small town sizes.They have a great impact on our economy desptite the initial stereotyping people give to these plains. Many of the families in the small communities or areas have been living there for years, and it is what they are use to so they don't want to change. It is really hard to change people's thoughts and perceptions, so it is difficult to try to make them see the good in this.

    We can see many people in the end feeling more obligated to move than to just do it willingly. It may only take one or two families to move and other people will be influenced to move as well. The people who choose to stay won't have anyone around anymore. They won't see much of a point to stay and may choose to move as well.

    There could be down sides to this proposal too. If the buffalo may start to expand their range once the population increases, it could be disastrous for larger cities like Fargo/Moorhead area and even further into Minnesota. It could also cause road problems and potential crop damage to nearby large farms near cities. The idea that we would have to fence in areas of value to keep the buffalo out is ridiculous. That would be a lot of fening, money, and time to do that project. People mmay feel like they are trapped.  Indian Reservations may have to work harder if they are in charge of maintaining the Buffalo. Drawings for hunting licenses like Elk or Bear, will also help overpopulation.

    These are all considerations to keep in mind when defining this proposal.   

By: Sara Banyai, Jessica Gravdahl, Matthew Svatos, Britney Greenwaldt, Ryan Paulouski, Erin Lee