Guide to Buffalo Breeders

Bring buffalo to the table as bison breeders

By Sandy Crouch

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The need for American buffalo breeders has never been stronger. The bison industry is starting to emerge as a strong player in the consumer meat market. Consumers are beginning to recognize - and even demand - this nutritious alternative to beef. The increased breeding of buffalo along with focused consumer marketing detailing the benefits of high protein diets is really starting to pay off in retail markets.

What is it about bison that has buffalo breeders stampeding into the market? First, there are new opportunities in the global marketplace opening up for bison products like leather and other byproducts. Second, the cost of bison breeding stock is very reasonable and the price offered for meat is on the rise. But, more importantly, breeding of buffalo addresses recent trends in the retail and restaurant markets:

1. Buffalo breeding yields a great tasting alternative to beef that is becoming very popular with chefs.

2. Bison meat appeals to health-conscious individuals since it is low in fat, but it has a high iron and protein content.

3. Buffalo breeders have a sustainable resource; buffalo are native to this part of the world and require no growth hormones.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Pick the brains of established American buffalo breeders

Before committing your time and economic resources to the breeding of buffalo, do your research. Get an education on what it takes to operate a bison ranch. The best way to get that education is to visit other bison breeders to look at their stock, their fencing and their handling systems. They are a friendly lot, and most of them will give you a tour and some advice.

I recommend: BisonRidge Ranch in Wisconsin gives ranch tours in the summer and early fall. Their 90-minute tour includes a trip to the corrals, the handling facilities and a wagon ride to see the herd. Smoky Hill Bison Co. provides guided van tours during the summer. Their "Evening with the Buffalo" includes a buffalo meal and a tram tour right into the herd so you can get up close and personal.

Research equipment used on other buffalo ranches

A major expense associated with breeding buffalo is fencing. A bison ranch requires higher and sturdier fences than cattle ranches. Before bringing any breeding stock in, strong fences have to be in place. In order to safely handle their stock, buffalo breeders use squeeze chute systems with crash gates and higher walls to accommodate their large occupants.

I recommend: Bekaert Fence supplies high tensile wire fencing suitable for buffalo breeding. Their Solidlock fencing is the strongest woven wire fence available and comes in a wide variety of heights. Pearson Livestock Equipment markets their own bison systems. Their handling systems for bison breeders chute panels, crash gates, walkways and load-out gates for buffalo farms.

Bring in your herd by finding bison for sale

Once you have completed your due diligence and purchased your equipment, you are ready to join the ranks of American buffalo breeders. When purchasing your stock you have the option of buying at auctions or buying directly from other bison breeders. New buffalo breeders should start with a small operation and work with calves for an easier learning curve.

I recommend: Blue Mountain Bison has one of the highest quality herds in the United States. Their breeding stock includes multiple prize winning animals. Kentucky Bison Company also sells high quality breeding stock from its award-winning herd.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide