By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University highlighted its growing role in bison education and research during the National Bison Association conference held in Denver, Colorado. Students and faculty attended the event and made strong contributions through presentations, planning support, and research discussions that directly connected with industry needs.
Three of the six educational sessions were chaired by the SDSU faculty, while six of the 12 academic posters came from SDSU students. Faculty members from the Center of Excellence for Bison Studies also served on the conference planning and photo contest committees. In total, six of the 16 lectures were presented by SDSU experts, showing the university’s strong involvement in advancing bison science.
“This conference is such a positive outing for SDSU,” Phil Urso, assistant professor of bison studies, said. “Our students are well received, and their conversations at their posters and post-lectures are met by interested producers small and large. This is one of the most engaging and interactive producer groups I have ever worked with.”
One of the sessions Urso and others presented at was a review of the SDSU Center of Excellence for Bison Studies. Led by director Kristi Cammack, the presentation covered the growth of bison curriculum programs, research on bison meat, and a newly accepted review paper supporting future researchers and educators.
Several new initiatives were introduced, including the Bison Health Network, which will bring together producers and industry leaders worldwide to discuss health issues. Another highlight was the Body Condition Score guide developed in Jeff Martin’s lab, using a five-point scale to help assess animal health in minimally managed species.
The importance of SDSU’s work is recognized through scholarships awarded to four graduate students by the Throlson American Bison Foundation.
“The bison industry at large believes in SDSU and knows we are the leaders in bison education and research,” said Urso. “With our involvement in the industry and this conference, we will continue to elevate the academic outputs of bison research and continue to grow our reputation as leaders of the bison industry.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mysticenergy
Categories: South Dakota, Education, Livestock