The Wassamasaw Tribe’s food sovereignty cattle program represents a powerful step toward reclaiming traditional food systems and strengthening long-term community self-reliance. By raising healthy, ethically cared-for cattle on tribally managed land, the program provides a sustainable source of high-quality protein for tribal citizens while expanding opportunities for agricultural education, youth training, and intergenerational skill-sharing. The initiative not only reduces reliance on external food sources but also reinforces cultural values of stewardship, responsibility, and connection to the land. As the herd grows, the program will support fresh meat distribution, community events, and culturally grounded teachings on animal care and land management—ensuring that food sovereignty is not just a concept, but a lived practice that empowers future generations of the Wassamasaw Tribe.

The Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians has been awarded funding through the Sovereign Equity Fund Grant to support critical infrastructure improvements on our pasture land. This investment will fund the installation of perimeter fencing, strengthening land stewardship and supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.

This project will work in coordination with our NRCS cross-fencing grant, allowing the Tribe to divide the pasture into five separate grazing areas as part of a rotational grazing plan for our cattle. Over the coming year, community members will see new privacy fencing installed to separate pasture areas from nearby homes, along with more than 3,000 feet of new fencing throughout the property.

In addition, the Tribe will be installing underground piping from the well to the pasture fields, creating five dedicated watering stations to support rotational grazing, improve animal health, and promote responsible land management.

Once this infrastructure is fully in place, the Tribe plans to responsibly grow the herd from three cattle to approximately fifteen, strengthening our food sovereignty efforts and supporting sustainable agricultural practices for future generations.

Throughout the year, the Tribe will also host hands-on educational programs for members focused on cattle raising and land stewardship. These programs will cover topics such as rotational grazing practices, animal health and nutrition, pasture management, fencing and infrastructure maintenance, water systems, and basic herd management, providing opportunities for community members of all ages to learn, participate, and build skills connected to sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty.