Our Story

Bison Bluff Farms, owned and operated by Clifton Howell and family, is a picturesque farmstead nestled cozily on 1100 acres of green farmland and bluffs near Cobden, Illinois. In 1997, Mr. Howell acquired five bison as an exotic hobby simply because he found the animals immensely interesting. Over time, the hobby herd was enlarged from amusement, to avocation, to a full time labor of love, with over 350 head of bison. The herd is truly a magnificent display on their panoramic spread.

From the beginning, owner Clifton Howell familiarized himself with the science of bison husbandry, and acquired a thorough comprehension of how to raise them as an excellent, nutritious food. He saw the importance of bison as a healthy, tasty, and lean source of protein. By adding a variety of good breeding stock from over 10 different states and varying blood lines, he now has a herd of exceptional quality. Throughout their lives, the bison are rotated between pastures, free to roam and graze on the vast, scenic farm land and varying vegetation. The animals are grass-fed then grain-finished, free of hormones and chemicals. The herd is robust, steroid-free, natural and unadulterated.