Texas Tribal Buffalo Project acquires land in Wilson County

The Texas Tribal Buffalo Project, in partnership with The Conservation Fund, has secured the Carney tract, a 149.5-acre parcel of vital pastureland within the historic Lipan Apache territory and traditional bison range in Wilson County. The project’s mission is to restore the cultural and ecological significance of the bison to Indigenous communities.

This tract of land is located on F.M. 536 west of Floresville, between F.M. 2579 and F.M. 2505.

Historically, the American Iyane’e/bison served as the lifeblood of Indigenous communities, providing sustenance, shelter, and essential materials.

The Texas Tribal Buffalo Project currently stewards 77 acres with a growing cultural herd of 29 bison. Following the completion of necessary infrastructure, including fencing, water systems, and shelters, TTBP will welcome a substantial increase to their herd.

“The buffalo provided everything for us. Home, shelter, spirituality, art, utensils, everything,” said Lucille Contreras, a leading voice within the Texas Tribal Buffalo Project. “I wanted that for myself, and my children. And all the other lineal descendants of Texas.”

The Texas Tribal Buffalo Project is dedicated to the restoration of the cultural and ecological significance of the bison to Indigenous communities. Through land stewardship, herd management, and community engagement, the organization is working to revitalize Indigenous lifeways and promote environmental sustainability.

Learn more at https:// www.texastribalbuffaloproject.org/.