VIDEO: Bringing the Buffalo Home: Land for the Buffalo

Written By Chris Wynne

This is the fourth installment of Tanka Fund's video series, "Bringing the Buffalo Home." Tanka Fund works to restore Buffalo to Native American lands, lives and economies. This video focuses on the challenge of financing land, infrastructure, and fencing for Buffalo ranchers, especially on leased or reservation lands. The fund provides capital for special fencing, water systems, and equipment. In 2023, 356 bison were released to Native ranchers, with plans to expand this impact and restore indigenous traditions.

Highlights from the video:

1. Key Challenge: Tanka Fund’s primary challenge is financing land and infrastructure for bison, which require more land and specialized care than cattle.

2. Cultural Significance: Buffalo are integral to indigenous culture, history, and traditions, and they are native to the land.

3. Funding Barriers: Ranchers on reservation land or leased land struggle to secure loans because they are restricted by U.S. government regulations..

4. Specialized Fencing: Buffalo require taller, more expensive fencing (6+ feet) compared to cattle, as they can jump and run through standard fences.

5. Infrastructure Needs: The fund supports ranchers by financing water systems, chutes, trucks, and all-terrain vehicles essential for Buffalo management.

6. Tailored Support: Each rancher’s land needs vary. For example, fencing requirements can range from a few miles to hundreds of miles.

7. 2023 Success: Tanka Fund facilitated the release of 356 Buffalo to 11 producers, marking a significant milestone.

8. Future Goals: The fund aims to release thousands of Buffalo onto Native lands in the coming years, expanding its impact.

Chris Wynne
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