Buffalo are keystone species whose role is integral to thousands of natural relationships across North America. Their restoration on Tribal lands is an essential step in repairing these relationships which were historically intentionally severed by the U.S. government, enabling colonization by European settlement and the ensuing violence against Native people as well as the extensive conversion of natural areas.

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By partnering with The Nature Conservancy (TNC), ITBC has been able to safely translocate approximately [how many from TNC – is it 1,500?] to member Tribes through its Surplus Buffalo Program. Buffalo from TNC’s preserves were transferred to member Tribes in Nebraska, Oklahoma, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and New Mexico so far.