LA Times - Consumers desire for healthy meat has bison prices soaring; ranchers struggle to meet demand

By Steve Karnowski
December 29, 2010

"The deep snow blanketing the Midwest prairie didn't bother the bison on Ed Eichten's ranch one bit. The hardy animals evolved to survive — even thrive — year-round on the open range, and with their big heads, they can plow right through drifts 5-feet tall or more. The majestic beasts are a hot commodity these days, as consumer demand for healthy meat has sent prices soaring. But although bison are what one rancher calls "a self-care animal," most farmers are struggling to increase their herds and keep up with demand...."

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-us-food-and-farm-bison-boom,0,4986783.story