The Conservancy hosted it's first International visitors in mid-August 2005. Francois and Valerie Marschal and their four children traveled from France to the United States and soon thereafter to Linton, ND for a family vacation and tour of the Kuntz Nokota Ranch. They were able to spend a week in Linton observing the Nokota horses, asking questions about our barns and the architecture as well as learning about American culture. Language was a minor barrier, but communication became progressively easier as the days slipped by.

The dream of the Marschal family is to be Europe's very first Nokota breeders. The very idea of having a European breeder totally blows us away, but also thrills us to no end. How exciting!! There are many details that must be worked out prior to actually shipping horses to France, but Francois and Valerie are well on their way to making their dream a reality. They are hopeful to start their herd with several bred mares and a stallion. However, travel arrangements and the quarantine process will be a strong consideration.

While in the States, the family also visited Medora and ND's Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, the Crazy Horse monument and the Black Hills of South Dakota. This was the very first trip to the US for all four children; however, Francois has been here on business travel several times.

Francois & Valerie Marschal and family-our special visitors from near Paris, France.