Dennis Sexhus told producers last week that a lesson can be learned from the survival instincts of buffalo.
“When they sense danger, they move closer together, they form tight groups and they move as one.
“Maybe it’s time for us to do the buffalo thing. Pull together and work as one.”
Sexhus, manager of the North American Bison Co-operative, was speaking at a conference in Brandon, aimed at promoting value-added ventures.
The bison co-operative, which now slaughters 60 percent of the bison grown around the globe, is considered a success story on the Northern Plains.
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It has paid the same premium price to its producer members for six consecutive years, Sexhus said.
Growing membership
The co-op boasts more than 400 rancher members in 18 states, four Canadian provinces and in Europe.
Sexhus, who described himself as passionate about value-added agriculture, urged producers to think about moving up the food chain.
“It’s probably the only way we’re going to survive out here on the Great Northern Plains.”
Producers at last week’s conference heard from several people involved in adding value to prairie commodities.
The speakers were candid, making it clear that a value-added venture can take several years to develop.
But they encouraged producers to chase opportunity and not let fear of failure stand in their way.
“Don’t be afraid to fail,” said Al Manshreck, who was among the cattle producers who formed Northern Plains Premium Beef a few years ago.
“Be more afraid of what’s going to happen if you don’t try.”
Northern Plains Premium Beef was a cross-border effort among cattle producers hoping to extract a premium for the quality of beef produced on the Northern Plains.
The dream was never realized.
