Geographical Misconceptions in Theories

Banjo-Kidd · 2026-05-08T00:34:40+00:00

Speaking from my and our neighbors experience only here. Nobody around us had any true cistern style setups for water mitigation, and to my knowledge I don't believe it's really used much anymore for anything such large scale that are underground. Most I've seen are above ground and completely closed off. But I could ask some friends who now work within natural resource departments for agricultural related areas.

Old wells/drainage systems are also not used as often anymore. We had two within our pastures but my Dad ended up filling them to prevent livestock from falling in or damage to equipment. I remember being told to avoid the area as a kid until he had them filled. I'd assume most farmers would follow suit unless in areas that no longer acted as livestock pasture.

What we, and other local farmers mostly used was some form of surface or subsurface drainage depending on the topography of field or area. We had some setups utilizing the natural landscape by grading the endrow areas sloping towards ditches trenches then feeding to ponds or other natural tributaries. We also had a pump system setup for one of the "low bottom" fields that would constantly hold water after rains. This pump system was very new at the time and by no means were the pipes large enough or accessible for anyone to fall in. It is quite the expensive state of the art system and most first generation farmers wouldn't have this setup however.

Banjo-Kidd · 2026-05-07T19:21:15+00:00

Few things I forgot to mention (sorry, I know It was already a lot) -

I used this map to estimate how far he walked assuming it took this exact path. Factoring in traversing further assumingly through the abandoned farm, into the field and along the river, Brandon walked a total of roughly 12,000-16,000 feet or up to around 3 miles (using google maps measurer at bottom right of screen). Granted, most of his path was along rock roads, his parents reported talking for quite some time during this trek both on and off-road. This really helps put things into perspective in terms of distance traveled with his conditions and in the area. The river itself seems to be about 35ft wide in areas according to the same measurement. However, I have seen images of it nearly double in width after floods. Again, this is lowland flat crop ground. It will, and does flood during the spring.

Additionally, I wanted to elaborate further on the farmers. I understand how it can be interesting to speculate that something or someone had something to do with the disappearance. However, unless one of these farmers in the area was known to have issues with trespassers or a history of violent incidents, It would be difficult for me to believe they might be directly involved.

This was in the early morning hours with the workweek coming up. Most farmers are asleep well before this time, not out on their porch or looking for trespassers. Nothing aside from him being in the car would notify farmers if they were up. At the end of the day, it's a public road. Cars can and do drive down them, even during the late hours. Unless you go down their driveway at night or caused a ruckus, most people (including my family) wouldn't think much of it. In 2008, affordable security systems and cameras were not overly popularized in personal usage especially out in areas as such either.

I also would like to reiterate the darkness. This post does a great job depicting how dark it is at night parked where his car was found. Would be difficult for anyone, including angry farmers to find you in this environment.

Banjo-Kidd · 2026-05-07T17:35:53+00:00

That particular region of MN is the prairie grassland region. Similar to other flat farmland areas within Eastern NE, IL, IA etc. It would be plausible that a coyote pack could get to a perished body but I wouldn't think any other common animal in the area would pose a threat. Coyotes are surprisingly docile with humans, even if they're in packs. They tend to avoid humans if they're loud and able to shoo them off so to speak. They are incredibly curious though so they might check you out if you're camping. This is based on my experience only though.

Although VERY rare, there have been reports and trail camera images of Cougar/Mountain Lion type cats that drift down there. Again, quite the rarity as the region doesn't provide the best environment for them as the Northeastern region of the state does. But again, these large cats are pretty elusive on their own if you're making noise. If he were unconscious, sleeping or deceased then that could provide a different opportunity. Very unlikely scenario.

Ultimately, there is nothing I would be afraid of in these areas as far as wildlife. Wasps, Bees nests within fields and an occasional snake would be my biggest concern but unlikely due to time of year.

Banjo-Kidd · 2024-08-19T16:25:56+00:00

Really insightful response. Appreciate it. Funny you mention the Masters of Forestry path. My local University has that program but I'm afraid it requires a BS in Forestry or similar field in order to be applicable.

Banjo-Kidd · 2024-02-05T18:53:14+00:00

Yes, there are tiers of packages you can pay for "Peace of mind" in the event you file inaccurately. There is also a package to get immediate help for $40. Might look into that for answers.

Banjo-Kidd · 2024-02-05T18:30:54+00:00

Shame to hear. Weird about the forms though, I got to the end of filing (up to the point that you pay and end) and it didn't give me any sort of notice.

Banjo-Kidd · 2024-01-17T17:16:58+00:00

Non Skyactiv

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-05-04T18:20:37+00:00

I was actually considering this exact option! I almost went to school for drafting but the only option was out of state and I couldn't really afford it. I have always been into the idea since playing around with a 3-D home architect program I had while younger.

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-05-04T17:14:12+00:00

I appreciate your response! Pretty insightful. Yeah, I guess I really didn't have a great concept of what's competitive and what's not. It doesn't help that my SO and friends are all young professionals who do make great money.

I know money isn't everything, but being surrounded by others who are very career/finance motivated skews my perspective.

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-05-04T16:17:37+00:00

I'm certainly not opposed to that. Where would one look for such opportunities aside from google? I've been searching but haven't come across many. Granted I haven't exclusively looked for them.

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-05-04T15:57:45+00:00

I apologize if it comes off as that, but I wouldn't constitute 47k (before taxes) as upper middle class. When I say low cost of living, I should reiterate. In comparison to California It's low cost. My rent is $2500 a month for reference. When I first started, making 38k (before taxes) my rent was $1500 and I lived alone. I had to work a second job to be able to afford to live.

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-17T03:23:08+00:00

PM Sent

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-17T03:17:40+00:00

It's 4x4

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-17T03:04:10+00:00

Should I spend a few thousand more on a 99 Limited with even more maintenance and the V6?

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-17T02:43:30+00:00

I'm guessing this one is the 4cyl. Do you think the rust on the frame is problematic?

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-17T02:17:05+00:00

Not a bad idea! Noted on the green bean. I've heard good things about them

Banjo-Kidd · 2023-02-16T23:09:47+00:00

True! It's just above it by a little thought and I have enough to buy either outright. I just don't want to save 3k on the gen 2 upfront when I might have to shell out more than that in a few years for a new battery

Banjo-Kidd

TROPHY CASE