Help return Buffalo to their homelands and Native American caretakers.
After 125 Years, the Herd Returns.
Wayne Frederick and his wife Alex run Rez Raised on the Rosebud Reservation, a Buffalo ranch rooted in tradition and renewal. For Wayne, the Buffalo are more than animals they’re the presence that grounded him through his late teens and early twenties, a force he credits with saving his life. Now, as a father, he’s caretaking them so his son can experience that same guidance.
Rez Raised is bringing the Buffalo back after more than 125 years and healing the land. With 40 Buffalo now and room for 65, Wayne calls himself a land manager, not a cowboy. The work has taught him patience, resilience, and the importance of slowing down to let life unfold.
Buffalo Restore Connection
There is a deep cultural and spiritual connection between theNative community and the Buffalo — who have long provided food, shelter, and a way of life rooted in relationship and respect. After more than a century of absence from certain lands, Native ranchers are helping restore balance by bringing Buffalo back to their communities, strengthening cultural ties, supporting economic stability, and reconnecting people with their ancestors and each other.
“It is a rewarding career that gives a lot back.”
Brendan Siers of Double S Ranch encourages youth to consider Buffalo caretaking as a strong livelihood.
“I just wanted to do something for the next generation.”
Buffalo caretaker Charles “Bamm” Brewer shares his inspiration
DON’T MISS OUR PODCAST
Hosted by Phillip Gaudon, the podcast explores the connection between Buffalo restoration, Native food sovereignty, and agriculture that heals the land. Hear stories from Native leaders, agricultural experts, and community members working to heal the land and bring the Buffalo home. Each episode shares insights on Native heritage, land stewardship, and economic opportunity. If you’re passionate about Indigenous culture, food systems, or Buffalo, Tanka Impact brings you conversations that inspire change.
You can find Tanka Impact here: Apple Podcast, Spotify, iHeartRadio and on YouTube. And be sure to subscribe so you can be alerted when new episodes are released!
