Network that connects Indigenous peoples with landholders held at farm near Camrose

A group of farmers, ranchers, land trusts and acreage owners that is dedicated to the spirit of treaties by voluntarily sharing land with Indigenous peoples celebrated its expansion into Central Alberta on July 6, on a farm east of Camrose. 

The Treaty Land Sharing Network (TLSN) Alberta launch event was held on Brenda Bohmer's 640-ace farm, 'Brenlea Farm' near Bawlf, Alta. 

According to a release from TLSN, the event, which was an opportunity for landowners and Indigenous people to learn more about the network, was attended by 80 people. 

"In the spirit of sharing the land, members provide access for First Nations and Métis people to practice their way of life," stated the release. 

Bohmer, who transitioned to a more holistic management approach about seven years ago, said when she first heard about the land sharing network, the idea "resonated" with her. 

"When I heard there was a trial here in Alberta, I wanted to learn more about it," said Bohmer.

"It feels very special for me to host this launch event.”

The day began with a pipe ceremony led by Elder Bert Bull of Louis Bull Tribe and Elder Alsena White of Saddle Lake Cree Nation.

Presentations about treaties and how the network operates to share or access land were given. 

Speakers included Josh Littlechild from Ermineskin Cree Nation, Amy Seesequasis and knowledge keeper Shirley Wolfe-Keller and TLSN members Rod McLaren and Doyle Wiebe.

At the end of the gathering, the participants walked to the edge of the farm and Bohmer posted Alberta's first TLSN sign welcoming Indigenous land users onto the land. 

There are now three landholders in Alberta, including Bohmer, that have joined the TLSN.

"Sharing land is fundamental to the treaty agreements that are intended to govern our coexistence on these territories," states TLSN's website.

"Members ... welcome Indigenous people to gather plants and medicines, hunt, and practice ceremony on the land that we farm. We believe this is a critical step toward upholding our responsibilities as treaty people.

The TLSN currently includes 52 locations and over 37,000 acres across Treaty 4 and Treaty 6.

"Our goal is to continue to expand the network of land that can be accessed, and we are always looking for new members."

The TLSN Alberta launch event was funded by the Land Stewardship Centre, UFA, and Edmonton Community Foundation.