A Mission to Strengthen Tribal Food Systems

By Scout Nelson

Tribal producers, conservationists, and community members come together in Belcourt, North Dakota, for “Honoring Buffalo, Building Tribal Agriculture: Turtle Mountain Field Day.”

The free event, hosted by the North Dakota Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Intertribal Agriculture Council’s Great Plains Region, highlights the sacred role of buffalo in Native traditions and encourages conservation practices and sustainable farming.

The day begins at the Sky Dancer Casino & Resort Event Center with breakfast and continues with presentations in the South Buffalo Pasture. J.J. Desjarlais Jr. of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians shares plans to work with the NRCS tribal liaison to add cross-fencing and a centralized water unit for rotational grazing through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

NRCS liaison Jeff Desjarlais Sr. reminds participants that conservation requires careful planning and long-term commitment.

NRCS rangeland specialist Jonathan Fettig explains the importance of diverse plant species and introduces the NRCS Soil Web tool, which helps producers identify soil types for better land management.

Irona Howe of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe stresses the need to bring buffalo meat back into diets to honor cultural traditions and provide healthy food for future generations.

Staff from the NRCS and Farm Service Agency (FSA) present details about conservation programs, disaster assistance, and urban farming loans. Adam Flaagan highlights EQIP and the Conservation Stewardship Program, sharing the success of the Spirit Lake Orchard project.

Casey Olson discusses small-scale and urban agriculture practices, including pollinator plantings, high tunnels, and raised garden beds.

Representatives from the Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC) offer guidance on financial planning, market access, and professional development.

Presenters share resources for recordkeeping, exporting American Indian foods, and youth training opportunities. Chris Roper of the Flower Hill Institute provides information on meat processing and bison inspection support.

This event showcases the deep connection between buffalo, culture, and conservation while encouraging Native producers to explore federal programs and sustainable practices that strengthen food systems and protect natural resources.

Photo Credit: pexels-germain-rodriguez