Wind River Development Fund Awards Contract for New Outdoor Education Pavilion at Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative
The Wind River Development Fund (WRDF) today announced the award of a construction contract to Panacea Construction Group of Dubois, Wyoming, for the design, fabrication, and construction of a 40-foot by 40-foot steel pavilion at the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative.
The pavilion is funded through one of six grants awarded to WRDF by the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and represents another investment in expanding outdoor recreation and educational opportunities on the Wind River Reservation. Once completed, the pavilion will serve as an outdoor education center where visitors can learn about the Tribal Buffalo Initiative, the cultural significance of buffalo, and ongoing efforts to restore this important resource.
Jason Baldes is the Executive Director of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative. He commented, “We are excited to be working with the Wind River Development Fund on the construction of a new pavilion at the headquarters of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative. This new project will help connect our communities to our work, where locals and visitors to the area can stop and learn about Tribal Buffalo restoration and reconnection.”
The project also includes the construction of a restroom facility, installation of picnic tables, and educational interpretive signage to enhance the visitor experience and create a welcoming space for community members, students, and visitors.
“This project is about more than constructing a pavilion, it is about creating a place where culture, education, and community can come together,” said Leslie Shakespeare, Chief Implementation Officer at the Wind River Development Fund. “WRDF’s role is to bring together the funding, partnerships, and project management needed to move the Tribal Buffalo Initiative’s vision into construction. Upon completion, ownership of the pavilion and related improvements will remain with the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative, ensuring this investment is locally stewarded, and available to serve future generations.”
In a related effort, the Wind River Sage Fund, WRDF’s affiliated nonprofit organization, is partnering with the Tribal Buffalo Initiative on the design and development of the new 12,000-square-foot Tribal Buffalo Center. The $9.75 million project will serve as the permanent home of the Tribal Buffalo Initiative and will include community gathering space, exhibits and cultural artifacts, educational programming, and research facilities. Construction is anticipated to begin later this fall, further advancing a shared vision of buffalo restoration, cultural revitalization, education, and economic opportunity on the Wind River Reservation.