Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation

The nation is named for Chiefs Beardy (kâmiyescawesit, “one who has a little beard”) and Okemasis (okimâsis, “little chief”, diminutive of okimâw). Together, they led two-thirds of the Willow Cree band and settled west of Duck Lake prior to the signing of Treat 6 in 1876. With adjoining reserves, the two bands have since merged into a single First Nation.

The Cree name for this combined reserve is nîpisîhkopâwiyinînâhk, “among the Willow Cree”.

Who We Are

Beardy’s & Okemasis Cree Nation (BOCN) is one of the largest First Nations in Saskatchewan with a registered population of over 3,500 of which 1,300 residing on the reserve.

Our reserve lands extend from rich farmlands in central Saskatchewan to the resource rich south-eastern Saskatchewan.

We are proud of our heritage and our Cree language, and of the educational opportunities, economic successes and social development work made possible by many years of strong leadership.

Where We Are

Our central administration office is located in Beardy’s, 80 km north of Saskatoon and 16 km north Rostern in the heart of Canada’s Northwest in Treaty 6 Territory.

The combined reserve land of the Band totals 20,345 hectares.

Key Accomplishments

Beardy’s & Okemasis is currently working towards developing and operating an Esso Gas station and Tim Horton’s franchise. BOCN is pursuing a wind project and are one of 15 companies who are bidding for the 200MW project.

Why Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation?

Beardy’s & Okemasis’ values self sufficiency through tangible economic development enterprises, employment initiatives, training and education opportunities for its members. Economic Development will be driven by investing in the future of Beardy’s & Okemasis’ people by providing opportunities for further education and skills development at all stages of life from youth to elders.

By investing in the community and developing clean energy options Beardy’s & Okemasis will further progress this vision.