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Raising Bison
Why should you consider raising bison? Consider the "Bison Advantage":
1. No artificial shelter (barns, etc.) needed
2. Efficient feed utilizers
3. Long productive life
4. Cows calve on their own
5. Extremely hardy animals, that are disease resistant (read: low vet/medical costs)
6. Low fat + high protein meat = Excellent Product with Strong consumer demand
7. Bison thrive in most American landscapes
Starting Your Bison Operation
So you're ready to start raising bison, you've come to the right place! The NBA has all you need to start raising these magnificient animals. A great place to start is with a membership to the National Bison Association. A NBA membership includes a copy our brand new Bison Producers' Handbook , which includes invaluable information from fencing to health to marketing.
Also, the National Bison Association now offers a Bison 101 online training for $29.95, or free with a Life, Active or Allied Industry membership. The introductory training allows students to work through three modules to learn the history of the animal and industry, some basics about bison management, and information on mitigating risk in the bison business. Please note, you can use this purchase as a credit towards a Life, Active or Allied Industry membership with the NBA within six months of enrollment. Enroll here today.
The NBA understands that some new producers may want to start their bison herd, but don't have the necessary land and expertise to get started. You should consider an Absentee Ownership Program (AOP), in which you work with an existing bison producer who will host and manage your animals for you. This is a great way to start growing your bison herd with the added bonus of having an experienced mentor. View a list of National Bison Association members offering AOP opportunities here.
Bison per Acre
One of the most frequently asked questions is "How many bison can I run on my acreage?"
There is no simple answer. The types of forage, soil quality, water, environment and other factors directly affect the number of animals you can maintain on a given acreage. Your local county extention agent, Soil Conservation Service Office, university's agricultural extention office, and local beef or dairy producers can all help you determine the carrying capacity of your acreage.
The number of beef animals allotted per acre in your area is a good initial estimate. You may find that you can run more bison per acre; however, it is best to start out with a safe number and adjust as you go. Remember, an adult animal eats more than a young animal and a lactating cow eats more than a non-lactating cow.
One good source of information on all facets of buffalo production is the Bison Producers' Handbook – 1st Edition. This useful guide is available for purchase online from the National Bison Association for $40.00, or free with an Active membership with the NBA. (Member Discount available on this and other products in our online store).
Fencing
Fencing on bison ranches varies greatly. Some folks use a good taut cattle fence while some build fortresses. The preference is somewhere in-between. What works for one person may not work for you. One good philosophy is that "it is better to be safe than sorry."
Exterior fences should be of prime importance. Interior or cross fencing is also important, but some producers can get by with a lesser quality. Many producers recommend an exterior fence of six feet. If a bison can get his nose over the fence and wants to be out, chances are he will try to jump or push over the fence. Grown bulls can make a standing six foot jump, if so inclined.
Handling
Bison are not a domestic animal and require different handling than cattle. Many bison producers agree with the saying "You can get a bison to go anywhere he wants to go."
Bison are much more nervous and excitable in close quarters. Work bison slower and calmer than you would other stock. Handling facilities will need to be stronger and taller than pasture fences. Your facility for capturing, sorting, treating, testing, loading out, or confining your bison should be strong, long lasting, cost efficient, and most importantly, safe for you and your animals.
One of the best ways to determine what you need is to talk and visit with other producers, or check out "Movin 'Em: A Guide to Low Stress Animal Handling", also available in our online store.
Carcass Info
Consistency is very important to the food service industry. Restaurants want to be assured that producers provide consistent size, age, and quality of steaks and other cuts of bison meat. Here's some general guidelines.
Fact Sheet on Bison Butcher Bulls
(18-30 Months of age for primal cuts)
Average Live Weight: 950 lbs - 1250 lbs
Ideal Live Weight: 1130 lbs
Average Carcass Weight: 550lbs - 725 lbs
Ideal Carcass Weight: 650 lbs
Average Yield: 57% of live weight
Average Yield of meat - 450 lbs/carcass
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