In 1957, Jim Burnett was the first to successfully crossbreed a Bison bull with a Hereford heifer. The offspring of the cross was a fertile three-quaters bison bull. The cross resulted in the best of both species and produced a superior animal. Today, a fullblood Beefalo is 3/8 Bison and 5/8 domestic beef breed. Research shows that the Beefalo breed is genetically sound and vigorous.

The North American Bison developed on the plains of North America with nature serving as herdsman and veterinarian. Bison survived without vaccinations, C-sections, hay, grain, or shelter. At one time they numbered between 60 and 100 million.

Early cattlemen believed the hardiness, long life, foraging habits, and feed conversion abilities of the Bison would be beneficial traits in domestic cattle. The results of their hard work can be seen in the vigor and productivity of today's Beefalo.