... Or beefalo.

COUNTRYSIDE: TO Maureen Horne, who was looking for guidance on a breed of cattle that might be able to survive in Oregon. We live in south central Minnesota, where we receive approximately 45" of snow per year and endure frigid temperatures with wind chills in the negative digits. We have been raising buffalo and beefalo for the past 20 years here and find both to be very hardy. If you are looking for something that is easy to handle, the beefalo would be your better bet. Beefalo are a genetic cross between buffalo and most any breed of beef cattle. They seem to do well in the cold, snowy climate of Minnesota, growing thick wooly coats to protect them from the elements. None of our animals are housed inside barns during the winter months, not even the calves. We make sure they have adequate hay, sweet corn silage, and an ample supply of water once the ground becomes covered with snow, but up until that point, they are free to graze what remains of our corn and alfalfa fields after harvest.

They are extremely intelligent and find places to get out of the wind or snowstorms when they become too severe. They are extremely protective of each other and their calves. We have had little or no problem with the diseases and parasites that you mentioned. Their meat tastes great and is low in cholesterol and fat while high in protein. They also make wonderful milking cows, as they are very docile. If you would like more information about beefalo, you can visit the Meyer Beefalo & Buffalo Farm (located in Elysian, Minnesota) website at www. meyerbuffalofarm.com or contact Bruce and Beth Meyer at 507-931-1889.