By Jeff M. Martin
Summary
North American bison (Bison bison) are an attractive high-value livestock species that is growing in number and popularity across the United States. While bison ranching has some similarities with cattle ranching, there are significant differences that must be accounted for to ensure long term sustainability and profitability. Bison are a hardy species that tolerate hot climates of southern Texas and cold climates of northern Canada, utilize a wide variety of native forages and forbs that may not be as palatable to cattle, and require less handling than cattle. Furthermore, bison are not domesticated and therefore are more wild, larger, and stronger than cattle — and should be managed as such.
A few things to consider when starting with or converting to bison ranching, 1) bison largely remain a wild and undomesticated species — treat them as dangerous wildlife, 2) precipitation and drought will affect summer growth and gains — more drought will reduce growth rates, and 3) mind your genetics, avoid inbreeding.
In 2026, an introductory-level lecture on the basics of bison biology, ecology, and management was delivered and recorded by the USDA-NRCS. The lecture is available on YouTube.
Source : sdstate.edu