Eric and Tonya Horvath opened Eel River Bison Ranch in 2014 to begin their dream of operating a working bison ranch. Much work was done before the first animals arrived in January 2015. They worked to convert over 35 acres of corn and soybean farm ground to healthy, green pastures. Now Eel River Bison Ranch is home to a herd of 26 bison. They currently provide Bison Meat to a handful of local restaurants, customers of an online farmers market in Fort Wayne, and also sell bison meat right here at our ranch.

 

The barn on the property was built in 1919 and updated in the 70's. It was used as an event center/restaurant until 2007. Eric and Tonya reopened in 2014 with the uniqueness of having a special event on a working bison ranch along with having this delicious, healthy bison meat as part of the event menu. Many aesthetic improvements have been made to the barn and is the perfect place for an anniversary, birthday party, family/ class reunion, graduation or business meeting and has a seating capacity of 60. In addition, we currently offer private walking tours to see and learn about bison. Home Schoolers welcome! 

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As Eric and Tonya continue to grow the ranch, they will soon be opening a gift shop in the barn so when guests visit for a ranch tour, special event, or a Harvest Host guest can take home not just tasty bison meat, but a souvenir of their visit.