PUNNICHY — Bison harvest activities were the focus in the Touchwood area Oct. 8 and 9.
Events were spearheaded by Carlton Trail College, in partnership with Touchwood Agency Tribal Council (TATC), George Gordon First Nation and Prairie Central District for Sport, Culture and Recreation, with support from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s Na-mi-quai-ni-mak (I Remember Them) Fund.
These free reconciliation events brought together Elders, Knowledge Keepers, survivors, students and community members to honour traditional teachings and support healing through land-based learning.
The bison harvest, held at Touchwood Medicine Ranch, began with a welcome from Bison Keeper Ed Bitternose and included remarks from Carlton Trail College President and CEO Amy Yeager, who highlighted the college’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and fostering cultural connections. The day included teachings on bison hunting and processing, cultural conversations, and opportunities for reflection and community engagement.
The bison harvest was part of a broader initiative that also included youth activities hosted by TATC and Prairie Central District, along with a Land-to-Table Harvest Supper organized by George Gordon First Nation. The concept for the harvest originated during planning for a bison-themed art project for Carlton Trail College’s Adult Basic Education students, with the goal of introducing cultural arts through land-based learning and observing the bison’s life cycle.
“We’re deeply grateful to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation for supporting this meaningful initiative, and to the community members who made it possible,” said Amy Yeager, Carlton Trail College President and CEO. “Activities like this bison harvest reflect the power of partnership, cultural learning, and the shared journey toward reconciliation.”
“The value of great advisors and program partners is invaluable; together we were able to plan a bison harvest that honoured the Spirit of the Bison and created opportunities for learning, healing, and reconnecting to the land and each other. I am thankful for all the support that brought things together in a good way,” said Crystal Francis, Carlton Trail College’s Indigenous initiatives co-ordinator.
— Submitted by Carlton Trail Regional College Media Relations
