INDIANAPOLIS — Each Saturday, our partners at Indiana Grown highlight a local business. This week, Terry Engstrand, co-owner of White Oaks Bison Farm in Rochester, joined Daybreak to talk about raising bison in Indiana and what visitors can expect on a farm tour.

Engstrand’s family runs a fifth-generation farm with a herd of 50 to 75 bison. The farm offers private tours where guests can feed the animals and take photos and videos. While some animals are docile, Engstrand reminds visitors that bison are still wild animals that require caution.

Beyond farm visits, White Oaks Bison Farm produces high-protein, nutrient-dense bison meat, which Engstrand describes as slightly sweeter than beef. The farm offers three snack stick flavors: original, jalapeño cheddar, and barbecue.

The snack sticks are low in sodium and sugar and meet USDA healthy snack guidelines for children in kindergarten through 12th grade, making them a great option for people with dietary restrictions.

Like many agricultural producers, Engstrand noted that the farm is navigating rising fuel costs and economic pressures by tightening practices and making lean cuts. However, he emphasized that product quality remains a top priority, helping keep items affordable for customers.

Customers can purchase products directly through the farm’s website, https://whiteoaksbisonfarm.com, which features a store locator for retail locations, or order online for direct shipping.