Bison Island Ranch Recognized at NBA

By Alexis Pencar

SHARON SPRINGS — Bison Island Ranch of Sharon Springs was recognized at the National Bison Association (NBA) Winter Conference for the achievement of becoming the first bison farm in New York to become New York State Grown & Certified.

Owner & Rancher Dr. Susan Golembeski traveled to Denver, Colorado for the multi-day conference in January with nearly 600 participants. During the award ceremony, Dr. Golembeski was recognized for this recent New York State Grown & Certified achievement. This is a significant recognition on a National level for this female-run small business right here in Schoharie County. The NYS certification recognizes that the farm has been inspected by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets on land and use as well as the animals and practices. It shows a commitment to food safety and animal/environmental stewardship that is proudly in-line with the mission of the NBA.

The National Bison Association is a non-profit association of producers, processors, marketers, and bison enthusiasts and has more than 1,100 members in all 50 states and 10 foreign countries. The mission of the National Bison Association is to “bring together stakeholders to celebrate the heritage of American bison, to educate, and to create a sustainable future for our industry”. One of the NBA slogans is “Eat Bison To Restore Bison”.

Dr. Golembeski goes above and beyond to ensure her bison herd is always well taken care of. The Bison Island Ranch bison herd is 100% grass-fed and pasture rotated, allowing the animals to live in the most natural way possible. These huge herbivores, also commonly called buffalo, can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand over 6 feet tall!

You can now try this heart-healthy local bison meat! Bison Island Ranch is hosting Ranch Store Hours this Saturday, February 3rd from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Pick up a special bison steak for Valentine’s Day or check out the new bison pet jerky for your favorite dog! There will be Valentine’s craft for the kids and bison samples too! There is always jerky, bison art, and bison jewelry available as well. Visit www.bisonislandranch.com or @bisonislandranch on social media for more information and upcoming events! Bison Island Ranch is located at 194 Engleville Rd, Sharon Springs, NY 13459.