2016 National Bison Association Summer Conference – Bison: America’s Soil Builders

The 2016 National Bison Association’s annual summer conference will land in Elk River, Minnesota this June 20th – 22nd .The conference theme is “Bison: America’s Soil Builders”.

The three day meeting, which changes location each year, is packed with information and fun.  The conference will provide both new bison ranchers and current producers something to take away. Located just 40 miles northwest of Minneapolis, Elk River is an ideal location for our summer event and features the conference host-farm, Snake River Farm  This holistically managed farm produces  not only bison, but also a variety of livestock including pasture-raised swine, poultry, beef cattle and more. The conference includes a tour of the Snake River Farm, offering an example of a working bison operation.

Hosted and largely planned by the Minnesota Buffalo Association, an organization that boasts a history of facilitating quality bison-specific educational conferences, the 2016 summer conference features 8 expert presenters who will educate attendees on a wide variety of bison topics. Presenters include John Mesko, Executive Director of the Sustainable Farming Association. John will speak to the bison industry’s commitment to sustainability of soil and the environment. Steve Karel and Tony Hewitt, of the US FWS, will present their data on the positive effects of managed grazing to wildlife habitat in the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. We will also hear from North Dakota farmer and noted soil health expert, Gabe Brown. Gabe will share his knowledge and experience on maintaining healthy, productive pastures.

And then there are the culinary features... As a special treat for attendees, Graese’s NorthStar Bison Meat Fabrication Manager, Andre Abraham, will demonstrate a side by side, bison and beef carcass breakdown utilizing grass-fed animals from the  Snake River Farm. The carcasses will then be further processed and used for the next day’s Snake River Farm tour lunch, allowing attendees to take the bison versus beef slider challenge. We will also enjoy two bison-themed dinners, as well as lunch on the first day.

Please take a moment to review the complete conference agenda at http://bisoncentral.com/sites/default/files/SCAgenda3.03.16.pdf and see why this conference is not to be missed.
We offer one-day registrations to those who have limited time, or full registrations at reasonable rates. Register quickly and securely online by the June 1st deadline at https://bisoncentral.com/conference-registration.

The host hotel Elk River Holiday Inn is taking reservations. Call the hotel directly at 763-656-4400.  Individuals must identify themselves as being with the NBA in order to receive the special group rate of $119/night which includes access to the hotel's Wild Wood Water Park, fun for both the young and old.

Learn more at www.bisoncentral.com and we hope to see you soon in Minnesota.