Information for Red Deer Breeders

Why Raise Elk/Deer?

Farmed deer is a growing and prosperous industry for today’s production farmers. Many farmers, looking for alternative land use, have begun raising deer or elk because of the ease of moving from traditional milk cow use of their land to raising deer or elk. Some people who own land started raising these animals as a hobby and have developed a business from that beginning. Others have gone into the business because they saw an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a promising enterprise.

The industry thrives without the benefits of government subsidies or special programs. Products produced are high quality and carefully controlled – all the way from the farm to the customer. Elk and Deer have natural herding instincts making them a viable choice for today’s American farmers. They are disease resistant in a close environment and provide a number of saleable products – both directly and indirectly. But, most of all, they are a beautiful, majestic animal guaranteed to catch the idea of the passer-by and area tourist.

Deer and Elk Farming is a serious business. Ranchers entering this field are willing to be monitored by their peers for adherence to animal rights and herd management issues.

Deer and Elk Farming is profitable. Deer eat less than cattle and forage in a manner less devastating to the pasture, deer farming can be up to three times more profitable than traditional livestock. Most deer farms do not find it necessary to use herbicides or pesticides. The US is one of the top exporters of venison yet also remains one of the world’s largest importers – up to 80% of the venison consumed in this country is imported.

Market Growth – National consumption growth rate of commercially farmed raised venison is increasing at eight to ten percent per year – outpacing the growth of domestic herds.

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