The ranch has new owners!

Great Northern Bison Ranch prides itself on its home-grown, family-owned roots, started from a passion and love for the beautiful North American bison. And that legacy continues through another family that's grown just as passionate about these majestic bovine and the way they can provide for families in the community, and all across the country.

John and Melody made their way to the Great Northern Bison Ranch for an overnight stay in their RV while on vacation. Given their current situation of homesteading land up in northern Wisconsin, and living full time in their RV, they wondered if it was possible for them to help with the ranch in exchange for staying on the ranch in their RV for the summer—putting them closer to their land, and opening up more opportunities to get connected with the community.

The Holcombs graciously let their family stay that summer, and leaving that fall was difficult as the Christians hit the road to travel to a warmer climate.

Little did they know they'd be back in just a couple of months. Due to an unforeseen job change, and a shift in life circumstances, the Holcombs were in need of some ranchhands for the winter. The Christians came back to Wisconsin in January of 2025, and moved into the beautiful ranch home while the Holcombs were out of state. John and Melody tended to the herd through the Spring, learning SO much about bison, running a meat business, and taking care of 100 acres. Then the ranch was put up for sale as the Holcombs were called elsewhere permanently.

Over the next year, the Holcombs worked graciously with the Christians to transition the ranch from their family to a family they knew loved it just as much. Keeping the herd together was priority, continuing the legacy of what was started. While the Christians couldn't afford the ranch home and all 120 acres, they were able to acquire the ranch with barn, and 103 acres of pasture and hay fields. They're excited to continue to get plugged into the Rib Lake community and build their forever home at the ranch.

"First generation bison ranchers" is something we never thought we'd call ourselves. But the Lord had great plans for our family, and we couldn't be more excited to embrace this way of life, hopefully passing down this ranch to our children someday.

We are proud to be rooted in faith, stewardship of land and animals, and a belief that food should nourish deeply. Our wild, pasture-raised herd helps restore the landscape while providing exceptionally flavorful, nutrient-dense meat for families who value health, integrity, and knowing where their food comes from. From premium bison cuts to nourishing tallow skincare, everything we offer reflects the same purpose: caring well for what God has entrusted to us.