Farmed Animals

Bison Ranching and Prairie Ecosystem Restoration

Bison ranching represents a model where animal welfare, ecological restoration, and sustainable food production can align when practiced with ecological sensitivity.

Key Facts

Bison once numbered 30-60 million in North America; fewer than 500,000 remain today
Bison are better adapted to North American grasslands than cattle and require less management
They are keystone species that create wallows and graze in patterns benefiting biodiversity
Bison have strong social structures; calves are raised within extended family groups
Ranched bison typically live more natural lives than intensively farmed cattle

Welfare Considerations

Well-managed bison ranching can provide welfare outcomes significantly better than conventional livestock production. Bison maintain natural behaviors — grazing, wallowing, social bonding — on open range. However, even ranched bison face welfare concerns at handling, transport, and slaughter. Minimizing human handling stress and ensuring humane slaughter practices are key welfare considerations.

What You Can Do

Support ranches with certified humane or regenerative agriculture practices
Choose bison products from producers with transparent welfare and land management standards
Advocate for large-scale prairie restoration that benefits wild bison herds
Learn about the cultural significance of bison to Indigenous nations
Support legislation for expanding public lands accessible to wild bison populations