Relation Building and Reflection at the Keystone Connections Conference

Over the two days of June 3 & 4, 2026, the Keystone Connections event was co-hosted with Soil and Agroecosystem Project (SAGE), International Buffalo Relations Institute (IBRI) and National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF). The event unfolded on the lands of the TsuuT’ina Nation. This location provided a powerful backdrop, grounding the conference in a landscape defined by deep historical relationships and the enduring connection between Buffalo, the people and the land.

The event was deeply rooted in meaningful Buffalo dialogue successfully bringing caretakers together to share knowledge, brainstorm ambitious Buffalo-centered initiatives, and strengthen ties between Nations. Attendees from across the vast network of the Buffalo Treaty also participated in an immersive ‘On-the-land’ workshop. This session invited participants to visit the TsuuT’ina Nation Buffalo paddock, where they witnessed firsthand the ongoing, vital efforts to steward and maintain the nation's Buffalo herd for their community’s cultural and spiritual health. The TsuuT’ina Nation, who were among the original signatories of the inaugural 2014 Buffalo Treaty, provided an inspiring example of how these ancestral commitments continue to live on today.

In addition to all the Buffalo dialogues, attendees were treated to an exclusive advance copy of the highly anticipated book, ‘Guardians of the Buffalo: The Essential Guide to Bison Care’. This comprehensive work, authored by Wes Olsen and Cody Spencer and featuring stunning photography by Johane Janelle, serves as an integral resource for anyone dedicated to the stewardship of these magnificent animals. It was a true highlight of the conference to have the authors and the photographer present in person for an intimate signing.

This personal interaction added a layer of depth to the event, reinforcing the community bonds essential to Buffalo restoration, and driving home how this ‘first-of-its-kind’ book is needed. We encourage everyone to keep a close watch for upcoming announcements regarding the official pre-sale, book release dates, and a scheduled book tour arriving later this fall.

SAGE is currently gathering insights and contributions shared by participants into a comprehensive post-event report. This document will be distributed across our network to continue the conversation, inspire future initiatives, and ensure that the wisdom exchanged is carried forward.

In the spirit of building more dialogue and network with Buffalo Caretakers, the NCIAF has also created a Facebook page where caretakers can be connected. Feel free to follow  - Link Here 

In Relationship,

International Buffalo Relations Institute team