Episode Details

Kathleen Ruhter, a bison producer in Douglas County, Illinois, discusses her journey into bison ranching, starting in 2012. She currently manages 30 bison at her ranch and has a contract with McHenry County Conservation District for an additional 20-25 bison. Challenges include finding suitable land, managing pastures, and addressing copper deficiencies. Her operation includes breeding and meat herds, educational programming, and ecotourism through an Airbnb and farm-to-table store. The bison industry in Illinois is growing, but faces issues like land affordability and veterinary knowledge.