Hunter's Moon Emergency Food Share: Turtle Land Conservancy Provides Venison to Mashpee Wampanoag Elders

Mashpee, MA — In an act of reciprocity and community care, Turtle Land Conservancy (TLC), an Indigenous-led land trust, has coordinated an emergency food share in response to an abundant harvest during the Hunter's Moon cycle. Locally harvested ahtuk (deer) meat will be donated to Mashpee Wampanoag tribal elders amid rising challenges to food access.

With limited supplies, distribution will begin with “Golden Elders” aged 70 and older, before extending to tribal members aged 55 and above. In addition to venison, TLC will provide food cards generously donated by Cotuit Federated Church, who also gifted a meat grinder to support processing. These offerings will be shared at the upcoming Elders Council Luncheon on November 18th.

The emergency food share illustrates TLC’s dedication to land-based lifeways, cultural stewardship, and food sovereignty. By harvesting venison from multiple locations in ways that support local agriculture and manage deer populations, TLC demonstrates ecological balance and ancestral tradition while addressing ongoing challenges in food security.

“Our elders carry the traditions and strength of our people,” said Waban Webquish, tribal member and president of TLC. “Providing them with nourishing, culturally significant food is not just a gesture—it is a responsibility.”

This initiative highlights the importance of Indigenous-led conservation efforts that center ecological balance, community well-being, and cultural resilience. Turtle Land Conservancy is committed to land stewardship that restores habitat, supports biodiversity, and ensures access to harvesting areas along with education in traditional practices.

For more information or to support Turtle Land Conservancy’s work, please contact clerk@turtlelandconservancy.org or President Waban Webquish at 774-521-8489 or visit www.turtlelandconservancy.org