Bison Welfare

The importance of bison dates back thousands of years, starting with Native American tribes. They were also considered a sacred animal and religious symbol.

The same importance and passion is a part of how we run our business today. We are very committed to the humane treatment of bison. We purchase bison from many small family ranchers, who care about how bison are raised just as much as we do. One element of this is quite simple. Bison require less management than other ranch animals, and they are allowed roam freely. Bison are not handled like cattle but are moved from pasture to pasture to graze on fresh grass. This process is called rotational grazing. Mother Nature has perfected bison over thousands of years to thrive on the native grasslands, just as nature intended.

Bison are nourished in a “free choice” environment. They feed on grass, alfalfa hay, shrubs or forage; with a small amount of grain prior to harvest to ensure consistent quality and a flavorful taste for consumers.

Breeding takes place naturally in July through September, and no artificial insemination or embryo transfer technologies are used. Our bison are not castrated, dehorned or branded.

In short, we allow bison to be bison, and just let them roam as they always have.