Plains bison welcomed back to the Kahkewistahaw First Nation in Saskatchewan March 30, 2026

New herd strengthens cultural connections, supports species recovery and advances Indigenous-led stewardship

This spring, Kahkewistahaw First Nation welcomed 16 plains bison in collaboration with the Government of Saskatchewan and the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). Together, these partners are supporting both species recovery and the restoration of deep cultural relationships with this iconic animal.

This milestone represents an important step for the Nation in re-establishing a herd on its traditional lands.

On March 25, 2026, the animals were translocated from NCC’s Old Man on His Back Prairie and Heritage Conservation Area in southwestern Saskatchewan. With their arrival, the Kahkewistahaw First Nation is leading the development of a new herd that will support ecological health while strengthening cultural practices, knowledge sharing and community well-being.

Central to the livelihoods, cultures and identities of Indigenous Peoples, plains bison once numbered in the millions across North America’s grasslands. Their rapid decline in the late 19th century had lasting impacts on Indigenous communities. Efforts to restore bison populations are not only about conservation — they are also about cultural renewal and reconciliation.

Reintroducing plains bison to the Kahkewistahaw First Nation reflects the growing leadership of Indigenous communities in conservation. By bringing together Indigenous knowledge, stewardship practices and collaborative partnerships, this initiative contributes to the long-term sustainability of both the species and prairie ecosystems.

Quotes

“The return of the bison to our lands is more than the revival of a species; it is the restoration of balance, tradition, and hope. Their presence reminds us of our ancestors’ wisdom and the enduring strength of our people. As the bison walk these grounds once more, so too do we walk forward together, honoring the past and embracing the future.” — Chief Taypotat, Kahkewistahaw First Nation

“The return of plains bison to Indigenous communities throughout the province is an important step in cultural and ecological revitalization and reconciliation. The Ministry of Government Relations is pleased to support the Nature Conservancy of Canada and Kahkewistahaw First Nation project through our First Nations and Métis Community Partnerships Project funding. This funding reflects our government’s ongoing commitment to advancing reconciliation in Saskatchewan.” — Honourable Eric Schmalz, Minister of Government Relations, and Minister responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs

“Bison have long played a vital role in shaping prairie ecosystems and hold deep cultural significance for Indigenous Peoples. Their return to Indigenous lands is an important part of conservation and reconciliation. NCC is proud to work alongside the Kahkewistahaw First Nation and our partners to support the establishment of this herd and the continued stewardship of these remarkable animals.” — Andrea Laughren, Regional Vice-President for the Prairie Region, Nature Conservancy of Canada

Quick facts

• The Kahkewistahaw First Nation homeland is part of the territory covered by the terms of Treaty 4 (1874), located in Broadview, Saskatchewan.
• In 2003, a group of 50 plains bison calves were translocated from Elk Island National Park to Old Man on His Back Prairie and Heritage Conservation Area, where plains bison had once roamed in the thousands but had nearly become locally extinct in the early 1900s.The herd provides visitors to the conservation area with the opportunity to safely view plains bison in their natural habitat.
• Working together with Indigenous Nations and conservation partners helps establish new herds and manage existing ones, while maintaining healthy grasslands and habitat for other species.

Photos

Bison at Old Man on His Back Prairie and Heritage Conservation Area (Photos by Jason Bantle).

Contact

Daphne May
Director of Communications and Engagement
Nature Conservancy of Canada, Prairie Region
306-715-2983
daphne.may@natureconservancy.ca