The Associated Press: Bison industry recruits ranchers as prices rise

Now the U.S. bison industry is trying to encourage more people — be they veteran cattle ranchers or newcomers like the Popps — to start raising the animals to help meet growing demand nationwide.

"People understand the health benefits of bison. More people are trying it," said Susan Popp, 42. "It's not quite so exotic."

Since they began more than a decade ago, the Popps' Black Forest Bison ranch boasts a herd of about 60 buffalo, and their store in Colorado Springs is looking for more bison suppliers.

"If things keep going with the demand growing the way it is, we need to get some more people out there raising buffalo," said Dave Carter, executive director of the Denver-based National Bison Association.

The industry, which touts the meat as a healthier, leaner alternative to beef, is offering an online "Bison 101" course, evangelizing the benefits of bison to lenders and expanding mentoring opportunities for new ranchers.

The Associated Press: Bison industry recruits ranchers as prices rise