Farmer Profile: Wisconsin

Rebecca and Patrick Ries have been operating Bluestem Bison in Mount Calvary, WI since 1995.

Their problems are similar to most other smaller producers (they currently manage a herd of 140 buffalo). At an average cost to the consumer of US$4 per pound, the price is too low for any significant profit, and they have an ongoing struggle to convince restaurants to serve bison meat. Farmgate and farmers markets continue to be the primary outlets where customers can buy locally produced buffalo for home consumption.
Photo courtesy Fond du Lac Reporter