In 2024 the ranch reached its goal to start growing, harvesting and feeding locally sourced hay to the buffalo. Now they’re on to the next project: building the ranch headquarters and education center.

According to owner and operator of the Modoc Nation Ranch, Jeremy Garrett, the buildings will be used to educate people about agricultural preservation.

“We need to get people involved, and we need to get them involved young,” he said. “If we can give them a fun place to stop and a neat place to see buffalo, maybe they can think about it for the rest of their time. The goal is to just keep them relevant.”

Garrett said he hopes the education center will encourage ecotourism and teach both tribal and non-tribal members the importance of sustainability.

The center will have indoor and outdoor areas for students, community members and tourists and is set to open in May.