The Bison Producers of Alberta plans to pitch its industry to prospective producers this month in Ponoka.
The association’s annual Wildrose Bison Convention, Show and Sale, which runs March 14 and 15, will kick off with a free session entitled, Bison Ranching — Is It For You?
The Friday morning presentation, scheduled to run from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Ponoka Legion, will be followed by a bison sausage and bun luncheon.
“With demand high, strong prices holding and the supply of bison soft, the business case for entering or expanding bison production in Alberta is attractive and profitable,” said Thomas Ackermann, chair of the Bison Producers of Alberta. The group has even posted a video on its website that extols the virtues of life as a bison producer.
The afternoon of March 14 will feature learning sessions on topics like feeding and marketing bison, with an evening banquet and awards also on tap.
On Saturday, the Bison Producers of Alberta will hold its annual general meeting, as well as commentary from show judges and a livestock sale. The sale will take place at Vold, Jones & Vold Auction Market in Ponoka, and will be open to Internet bidders.
In 2013, more than 150 people attended the Wildrose Bison Convention, Show and Sale.
Organizers expect more this year.
The cost to attend the full convention is $60 for members and $90 for non-members. For more information or to register, go online to www.bisoncentre.com or call 780-955-1995.