A cacophony of horse hooves clattering on metal and snow broke through a fierce blizzard at a Métis-operated ranch in northeastern Alberta. In a controlled stampede, 20 shaggy wood bison dashed out from a metal shipping container and into a fenced area of the boreal forest. As the herd vanished into the swirling snow, there were embraces, cheers, and high-fives. This marked the first bison stampede on the Willow Lake Métis Nation in about 120 years.
Approximately 30 elders and leaders from the community welcomed the herd, which had been moved from Elk Island National Park to a ranch managed by the Métis community near the hamlet of Anzac, roughly 50 kilometers southeast of Fort McMurray. “It’s so lovely and humbling… so incredibly beautiful to witness. I’m thrilled to be a part of it,” expressed Robert Cree, an elder from the nearby Fort McMurray 468 First Nation. “I’m delighted they’re back home. There used to be buffalo here years ago. My grandfather used to talk about it. I’m pleased they’re back on our traditional lands.”
Describing the ranch’s opening as a historic milestone for the Indigenous community and the bison themselves, Métis leaders emphasized the significance of the event. Kyle Whitford, an Indigenous guardian employed as a trapper for Willow Lake Métis Nation, hailed the herd as a triumph for food sustainability. “It’s bringing the wood bison back to Wood Buffalo. I’m very excited and relieved now that they’re at their home, which they’ll love and enjoy because we built it with love,” Whitford stated.
Part of Willow Lake’s $50-million, multi-year food sustainability plan, the bison will reside on 16 hectares of the 82-hectare ranch, which will eventually host hens, honey bees, greenhouses, hydroponics, and community gardens. Matthew Michetti, overseeing government and industry relations for Willow Lake, described it as a valuable kickstart for their agriculture and tourism business while aiding in achieving sovereignty – the ability to influence one’s environment. The long-term plans include cultural and tourism initiatives such as an Indigenous medicine walk, school partnerships, and a visitors’ center.
Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, expressed excitement about elders contributing their expertise to the bison harvest, providing immediate food for Métis families and passing down essential 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 region. “A part of that is reintroducing our lifestyle in a more sustainable way back into our day-to-day life,” she added.
Nathaniel Ostashewski, the owner of Cyrus Bison in Bonnyville, Alberta, located over 400 kilometers south, is advising Willow Lake on ranching, foreseeing continued herd growth. He explained that the lush humidity from neighboring Gregoire Lake and the extended northern summer sunlight stimulate plant growth, with the bison aiding in transforming the muskeg into a vibrant prairie by aerating the soil and reintroducing moisture and nutrients. Ostashewski emphasized the benefits of bison flourishing in Alberta for all involved.