Is it a dream of yours to run an Elk Farm?
If you are seriously considering starting up an Elk Farm, an important decision to make is what elk market(s) interests you
most. Once you have made your decision in what elk market(s) you
want to specialize in, you can buy your elk genetics to support those
goals. The pedigree of elk you purchase will determine your herd characteristics
and stamina.
Velvet or also known
as elk antler is a fast growing supplement that has proven to dilate
the blood vessels to assist the body in taking care of itself. Velvet
antler can boost hormonal activity, increase oxygen uptake to the
brain, liver, and kidneys, decrease the rate of muscle fatigue,
and promote muscular growth.
Elk meat is lower in
fat and cholesterol than chicken or turkey. Elk meat is great tasting
and the healthiest meat on the market. Even though elk meat is not
the market we cater to, we do process enough to satisfy our needs.
Hunt Bulls
Elk
hunting ranches are typically very large acreages in rough terrain.
Hunters spend lots of time and money in search of trophy elk. Hunting
ranches are beginning to flourish as the human population increases
and the trophy quality of the wild elk decreases.
One bull
can service around 20 - 40 cows. Artificial insemination is common
with a success rate of 50-80%.
Start-Up Tips
Plan before you begin.
Contact your local Department of Agriculture or
Department of Natural Resources for regulations that may affect your
elk ranch.
Enclosed Handling
Facility
Contact local elk farmers and other elk associations
such as MNEBA or
NAEBA for additional
information on costs of animals, fencing, feed, etc.
Purchase your stock and fencing equipment from
reputable farmers and dealers.
Set up a recordkeeping system to account for expenses
and animal records.
Try to keep the true capital cost of the fence
to 10% of your total investment in your elk venture.
Elk are a very attractive investment if you have
land, can put up the fence, and have animal experience.
There are any number of options to explore:
Private ownership
"Share farming" arrangements between
investors and landowners
Partnerships
Corporate structure
2001 Calves
Wolf Creek Elk Ranch welcomes you to
come and visit about elk ranching. We will help you plan and start up
your elk ranch or even help you to grow your existing elk ranch. Give
us a call at 218-658-9653 or e-mail us at info@wolfcreekelkranchinc.com.