Students and Métis leaders had a naming ceremony for 16 new bison calves at Batoche.

The bison calves are the first born in Batoche in almost 150 years. Students from nearby areas came to learn. Earlier, students were asked to help name the calves.

Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and Parks Canada brought bison to Batoche. They brought 25 bison in 2023 and 50 more later.

Bison are back on Métis Nation-Saskatchewan lands near Batoche.

What happened to the big bison herds on the Prairies?

A field trip helped students learn about Métis through outdoor education, said a minister.

Students learned by seeing the bison, not just reading about them, said the minister.

The minister wanted students to ask questions and learn about Métis history and the bison.

The chosen names for the bison use different Michif dialects. They include Chiraan, Toneur, La ci flesh, and Li pchi.

One bison is named Groos tet, which means Big Head in English. A student liked this name.

The student thought the name was funny and nice. The student had a great experience and felt lucky.

After the naming, students and others went to see the bison herd.

Angela Rancourt teaches Michif and helps with a program for young students.

Rancourt said being on the land and celebrating with the bison was very moving. Her ancestors were from this area.

Another nation also welcomed bison with a new herd.

Seeing bison in person is special, said Rancourt.

Rancourt said it was important for students to see their language used and to be part of the naming process.

The bison herd will grow too big and some will be moved to start new herds, said Lepowick.

The herd is almost full now, but more bison will be born next spring, said Lepowick. These bison will help start new herds in other areas.