Tallcree Tribal Government is leading an important initiative to help restore and protect the Wood Bison within our traditional territory. Working alongside government agencies, Indigenous knowledge holders, and wildlife experts, the goal is to establish a healthy, disease-free Wood Bison herd for future generations.
In 2023, Tallcree was invited to join a provincial working group focused on the Wabasca Bison Herd, a rare disease-free population confirmed in 2009 after years of testing. Before that, many believed the herd carried diseases found in other bison populations near Wood Buffalo National Park. By the time the herd was confirmed disease-free, fewer than 10 animals remained.
Discussions with Alberta biologists and bison experts identified an opportunity to help strengthen and support the long-term future of the Wabasca herd by establishing another nearby population.
The initiative quickly received strong support from Chief Rupert Meneen and Tallcree leadership. Around the same time, representatives from Elk Island National Park approached Tallcree about receiving Wood Bison from their conservation herds.
Elk Island National Park is home to some of Canada’s main conservation herds of Wood and Plains Bison, and regularly relocates animals to support healthy populations. Indigenous Nations are given priority access to these bison as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts.
Tallcree is currently preparing to receive Wood Bison from Elk Island in the winter or spring of 2028.
Before bringing the bison home, Tallcree worked with partners and wildlife experts to create a strong plan focused on the long-term health and success of the herd. Support and expertise were provided by the Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas – Fish and Wildlife Stewardship Branch.
The plan includes:
Tallcree is proud to share that the Canadian Wildlife Service has approved the plan.
Choosing the right location has been an important part of the work. Traditional knowledge shared by community members, Alberta Government habitat data, and forestry mapping tools were combined through TTG’s GIS system to help identify possible sites.
To support the project, the Nation:
Sheena Meneen, Gary Meneen, and Mike Hamelin have helped lead this work on the ground, gathering information and documenting potential sites throughout the territory.
A community meeting is being planned to share updates, present findings, and invite community feedback. A respected expert in bison relocation and management will also attend to share knowledge and support the ongoing planning process.
Next steps for the project include:
This project represents an important step toward restoring Wood Bison within Tallcree territory and supporting the long-term health of the herd for future generations.
