Came across this today: reintroducing bison to the plains. Follow this, because thier hoofs compress soil, yet the long-term result is more space for life. Scientists explain it like this: those hoofprints create microhabitats, and the pulsed grazing prevents any one plant from dominating. As roots reach deeper in search of moisture, they're able to open channels that counterbalance the surface compaction. Now, when Mr. bison and his gang move on, their dung and urine kick-start a controlled nutrient storm, feeding microbes, beetles, and fungi that rebuild structure from within. Imagine that?
