Bison Return to Texas on Indigenous Land

In a heartwarming and historically significant event, the majestic bison, also known as American buffalo, have made a triumphant return to Indigenous lands in Texas. The arrival of these iconic animals marks a momentous occasion, filled with symbolism and hope for the future.

The bison, weighing a staggering 800 pounds each, approached a captivated crowd of 40 people on a windy afternoon in early November. Among the spectators were Native Americans from various tribes, some of whom traveled long distances to witness this awe-inspiring sight. As the bison slowly approached, anticipation hung in the air, and phones were raised to capture this intimate moment.

The bison found their new home on the 60-acre GP Ranch in Hopkins County, Texas, owned by Theda Pogue, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Theda Pogue received four cows and one bull from the Medano-Zapata Ranch Preserve in Colorado as part of a remarkable conservation effort. This project was brought to fruition through the collaborative efforts of the Tanka Fund, a Native-led nonprofit based in South Dakota, and The Nature Conservancy. Their shared goal: to restore over 700 bison to Indigenous lands across the country in partnership with tribal nonprofits and nations.

Theda Pogue, filled with emotion, invited people to her ranch on National Bison Day, November 4th, to celebrate this historic occasion. The transfer of these bison to Texas is the second phase of this program, with the first transfer taking place at a Lipan Apache ranch in Waelder, Texas. Theda Pogue’s herd now boasts 12 bison, comprising one bull and 11 cows.

The ceremony at GP Ranch was a poignant and spiritual event. Native American men sang in unison as birds circled above, forming an arc of people around them. Theda Pogue expressed her deep gratitude and emotion, emphasizing the importance of passing on the legacy of the bison to younger generations. Her heartfelt words reflected the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities.

The significance of this event is rooted in the historical context. In the 1800s, the bison population suffered a catastrophic decline due to the arrival of settlers and bison hunters, leading to what is known as the “Great Slaughter.” This decimation was driven by the U.S. government’s efforts to subdue Native American tribes. By the 1890s, the bison population had dwindled to near extinction, with fewer than 1,000 remaining. Indigenous communities that relied on bison for sustenance and spirituality were forced onto reservations.

Efforts to save the bison from extinction began in the early 1900s, and today, there are more than 400,000 bison in commercial herds across the country, with an additional 20,000 in conservation herds. These conservation efforts have included restoring bison herds on Native American reservations, with the Tanka Fund playing a crucial role.

In Texas, where only three federally-recognized tribes have reservations, the return of the bison to Indigenous lands is a significant step. Theda Pogue’s journey to this moment began with childhood memories of visiting a bison farm in Oklahoma. Her dedication to bison conservation led her and her husband to establish GP Ranch in Texas.

The bison’s return is not just about conservation; it’s also about education and reconnecting Indigenous people with their cultural heritage. Theda Pogue plans to create a space for Indigenous people to interact with the bison, ensuring that the legacy of this iconic animal endures.