ALDA, Neb. (AP) — The first year of having genetically pure bison on Crane Trust land near Alda appears to have gone well.

Jacob Salter, who helps manage the herd, says the first year has been “an excellent experience.” That includes the birth of 11 healthy calves, with no calf deaths.

Brice Krohn, senior director at the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center, says that number has impressed others who run bison herds.

Krohn and others credit the trust’s philosophy of providing a low-stress environment for the bison.

Krohn says the bison were run through a chute only once, to collect blood and hair samples and to worm the animals. Medication is delivered via a dart gun to keep human contact to a minimum.