I wish I could grow bamboo! I believe it's the ideal longterm material. If you check around there are endless uses for it. People have even made bicycles out of it. It's great for building material, making tools, furniture, fuel... the list goes on and on.
I'd recommend diversifying breeds if you can. Maybe three types, timber (for building), mid-size, and one you can eat. Here are several resources:
www.americanbamboo.org
www.bamboogarden.com
http://bamboe.robberg.nl/
Depending on where you live, there might be some local growers that can recommend breeds that do well in your area. If you hear of one that can withstand a Minnesota winter, let me know.
Happy growing.
MichaelJ