A tumult of hooves clattering on metal and snow broke through a severe blizzard at a ranch managed by the Métis in northeastern Alberta. In a controlled manner, a group of 20 shaggy wood bison dashed out of a metal shipping container and into a section of the boreal forest enclosed by a fence. As the herd vanished into the swirling snow, there were embraces, cheers, and celebratory high-fives.
This event marked the first bison stampede at the Willow Lake Métis Nation in approximately 120 years. Around 30 elders and leaders from the community welcomed the relocated herd from Elk Island National Park. The bison now reside on a ranch run by the Métis near Anzac, about 50 kilometers southeast of Fort McMurray.
Robert Cree, an elder from the nearby Fort McMurray 468 First Nation, expressed his joy at the sight, stating, “It’s so nice and humbling … so very beautiful to see. I’m glad I’m part of it. I’m glad they’re back home. There used to be buffalo here years ago. My grandfather used to talk about it. I’m glad they’re back on our traditional lands.”
The opening of the ranch is considered a significant milestone for the Indigenous community and the animals by Métis leaders. Kyle Whitford, an Indigenous guardian employed as a trapper for Willow Lake Métis Nation, described the herd’s relocation as a triumph for food sustainability, emphasizing the return of wood bison to Wood Buffalo.
The bison are part of Willow Lake’s extensive food sustainability plan, amounting to $50 million over several years. They will occupy 16 hectares of the 82-hectare ranch, which will eventually feature hens, honey bees, greenhouses, hydroponics, and community gardens. Matthew Michetti, overseeing government and industry relations for Willow Lake, noted, “It’s a really valuable start to our agriculture and tourism business, as well as helping to achieve sovereignty, which is being able to influence your environment.”
Future plans for culture and tourism involve an Indigenous medicine walk, collaborations with schools, and the establishment of a visitors’ center. Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, expressed excitement about elders contributing their knowledge to the bison harvest, which will not only supply immediate food for Métis families but also pass down crucial skills to younger generations.
Feather Bourque-Jenner, the director at Willow Lake, highlighted the project’s role in reducing food and living expenses in the north, aiming to reintroduce a sustainable lifestyle into daily life. Nathaniel Ostashewski, owner of Cyrus Bison in Bonnyville, Alberta, is advising Willow Lake on ranching and foresees further growth of the herd.
The bison’s presence is expected to enrich the local ecosystem, with their activities enhancing soil aeration and nutrient reintroduction. As the bison flourish in Alberta, it is seen as a positive development for all involved.