Overview Of Youngmeyer Field Station– North America was rocking a massive 150 million acres of tall grass prairie back then. Fast forward to today, and we’ve got less than 4% of this fantastic ecosystem left, mostly hanging out in the Kansas Flint Hills. The underground scene in Flint Hills has been growing for over 250 million years, with rocking layers of limestone and shale. The shallow, rocky soils make it a tough spot for farming and building, which works out great because it’s been keeping the tallgrass ecosystem, its fantastic wildlife, and those sweeping, rolling views intact forever.
© Brad Feinknopf
The Youngmeyer Ranch covers nearly 4,700 acres in Flint Hills. It’s a happening cattle ranch and a hot spot for research by Wichita State University. The place is buzzing with activity from various departments diving into studying plants, animals, soils, and waterways. They’ve got the Youngmeyer Field Station, a sweet setup with 3,400 square feet of meeting space, labs, and living quarters for six researchers. And get this ? the whole deal is off the grid, living its best life with no ties to public or rural utilities. They’re generating power and collecting water right there on the spot. Pretty cool, huh" © Brad Feinknopf
This project is about blending in with nature and standing strong against the elements. We took cues from the layered stone beneath the Flint Hills and other cool stuff you can spot around the area. It’...