FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, October 31, 2011

CONTACT:
Margaret Hart, Communications Coordinator
651.201.6131, Margaret.Hart@state.mn.us

Popular class on raising bison scheduled in November

“Bison 101” is free to participants

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Minnesota Grown Program and the Minnesota Buffalo Association are offering a free class for farmers and producers interested in raising bison.  The nationwide demand for bison meat has skyrocketed in recent years and as a result more people are interested in raising bison, according to Minnesota Buffalo Association President Dale Rengstorf.

“We’ve been offering this free class for two years now and it’s a terrific opportunity for our members to share their insights on starting a herd and techniques for raising these animals,” said Rengstorf.  “Bison are extremely hardy animals making them a good alternative to other livestock.  We see more and more Minnesotans raising bison in addition to carrying out their other farm activities or working a day job.”

The “Bison 101” class will be held Friday, November 25, 2011 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Central Livestock Sales Barn, 34412 County Road 10, in Albany, Minnesota.  The barn is located just off of Interstate 94 west of St. Cloud at exit 147.  The following day, the Minnesota Buffalo Association will hold its annual live buffalo auction – the only bison auction in the Upper Midwest.

Although walk-ins are welcome, those interested in attending are encouraged to register and reserve a take-home educational packet by emailing info@mnbison.org or by calling 507-454-2828 with names of attendees.  For more information on the class or the auction, visit the Minnesota Buffalo Association website at www.mnbison.org or call 507-454-2828.

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