Bison operation combines culture and economics

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A unique livestock operation which began 10 years ago has become a profitable business venture for the Wahpeton Dakota First Nation.

And the Tatanka bison herd, which is 80 per cent band-owned, has created a culturally-significant activity for the 400 members as well.

"In 1993 the band was looking for business opportunities and the chief at the time, Cy Standing, and council thought bison ranching looked like a profitable venture," said Byron Standing, economic development worker and councillor.

"The initial herd was only 10 head, but it's grown to about 200 today," he explained. The animals are sold at auction in Prince Albert, some 12 miles away, as they reach market weight. As well, family groups receive one bison every year for their own use.

While raising bison is an economic activity for the band, it also represents a return to culture and tradition for the Dakota people. "These modern-day bison are related to the buffalo which our ancestors hunted and depended on not so long ago," said Standing. The name of the operation, Tatanka, is the Dakota word for buffalo. "We're pleased with the idea that we are reproducing the species, which were in danger of extinction at one time, and we enjoy the opportunity to eat the meat which sustained our forefathers."

Hides are sent out for commercial tanning and local artisans fashion hand-made garments and other craft items, further enabling cultural activities to be passed on, while creating several jobs as well.

Individuals and bands looking for a profitable business venture would be well advised to consider bison raising. Although market fluctuations require that producers need to be in it for the long-term, prime meat animals between 18 to 30 months of age are worth at least twice what prime beef demands. Bison are not a domestic animal and require special consideration when handling. Low pressure, low-stress techniques are required. But today's bison producers have developed handling systems, corrals, and techniques that make bison handling safe for animal and producer.

Bison meat is low in fat and high in protein and is becoming increasingly popular in the Canadian marketplace. "Our stock is raised organically. There are no chemical additives in their feed and they graze in the pasture and eat hay which we produce ourselves," Standing said. No grain is needed through the winter as pastureland on the reserve is sufficient, although hay bales may be used in the spring to supplement the natural grass if needed. "We've seeded a quarter section to brome alfalfa and bale it to ensure we have enough feed to see them through," he added.

Bison are naturally hearty. Having thrived on the North American continent for thousands of years, they are adaptable to a wide variety of climates. Winter storms and summer heat are not problems for the animal.

Other business ventures on the Wahpeton First Nation include a convenience store which is beginning to show a profit after a year of operation. "It creates several jobs, and gives us a little tax benefit when we buy on-reserve," Standing said.

The band also operates its own public works and construction company. "We do custom grading and loading work, both on reserve and in the community, as we own gravel trucks. As well, we do snow clearing in Prince Albert and other places, thereby employing several members," he explained.

Standing said the band is always researching and investigating new ventures and activities which will enrich the lives of the Wahpeton First Nation. "We're using every resource we have to create a positive and progressive community for our people."