South Dakota State University is working toward adding a bison studies minor and certificate – which would be the first in the nation.
The program must be approved by the South Dakota Board of Regents at its meeting in April. But, as of now, SDSU officials are moving forward and hope to implement it this fall, opening opportunities for animal science and natural resource students.
“My goal, and the goal of this change, is to make sure that we have students that are effective enough and excelling in going out to the field and managing a herd of buffalo,” said Philip Urso, bison studies professor at SDSU.
This is a niche market and eventually there will be job openings for bison producers specifically, said graduate student Bailey Rodriquez. Organizations such as at Custer State Park, Turner Enterprises and conservation herds are leading the way, and could provide career paths for graduates.
In the past, the point of the bison industry was to build from the dwindling population. But now there are private herds and government herds that are also focusing on the feedlot and meat production of bison.
“I think that it’s wonderful,” Lydia Whitman from the National Bison Association said when asked about the minor and certificate at SDSU. “The more that we can put forward bison knowledge, the more it can be implemented because we need that knowledge shared between the communities that are stewarding bison.”
According to the National Bison Association, there are 1,986 bison ranches nationwide, which is a 12% increase from 2017. There are 192,477 bison ranched and reported in the U.S., which is a 5% increase from 2017.
“I would suggest getting the minor or certificate if you have any interest in bison or cattle,” Rodriquez said. “I didn’t have any interest in bison until it was handed to me, but now I love it.”
Her enthusiasm highlights the program’s ability to provide new opportunities for students, whether they have prior interest or are simply looking to explore a unique niche in agriculture.
Currently, South Dakota State is offering two bison classes: intro to bison management and current issues in bison industries. SDSU is working on adding more classes like range management and advanced bison production.
To get a bison studies minor, students will need to earn 18 credits. Classes will include basic animal husbandry, bison, range management, internship credits, research credits and electives.
The bison certificate will require 12 to 13 credits and is designed for those looking to specialize in specific areas without committing to a full minor.
“There has been a lot of interest in students that are interested in learning about bison management both from the natural resources perspective as well as animal science students,” animal science adviser Lisa Roker said.
Because of the growing industry, there are becoming more career opportunities working with bison, Urso said. With this minor, students would be able to work in a feedlot, nutrition studies, research and conservation opportunities and herd management.
The industry is also pushing for more veterinarians that specialize in bison. People in the industry are looking for more students with bison interest and are starting to offer summer internships as well, Rodriguez said.
Students interested in animal science, natural resources and agriculture can now have the opportunity to gain specialized training that could set them apart in a competitive job market, Roker said. This new program could make SDSU a premier destination for students looking to work in the bison industry.
