Tsuut'ina Nation acquiring 971 hectares north of reserve for master-planned community

Tsuut'ina Nation is partnering with a Calgary-based developer to expand its territory, with the goal of eventually developing the area into a master-planned community.

On Thursday, the Nation just outside Calgary's southwest border announced a partnership with Qualico Communities to expand Tsuut'ina's land base by nearly 1,000 hectares. After acquiring the Our Lady Queen of Peace Ranch near Bragg Creek in 2025, Tsuut'ina Nation is moving forward with plans to secure and develop 971 hectares of land directly north of its reserve. Known formerly as the Elbow View lands, the area is located along Highway 8, west of Calgary.

Head Chief Ellery Starlight said the project aims to diversify Tsuut'ina Nation's economy and "drive generational wealth" for its citizens. "We have an opportunity to bring 2,400 acres of land, north of our reserve, back to our people. Through collaborations built on mutual respect with Qualico and our partners, we will ensure the lasting prosperity, self-determination and strength of our Nation. Building on the success of past economic initiatives, the Nation is securing long-term economic opportunities by expanding our land base," Starlight said.

Aubin Consulting, an engagement and planning firm headquartered on Tsuut'ina Nation, will engage with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders in the vicinity to ensure "that all voices help inform and shape the ultimate environmental, cultural, and economic vision for these lands."

The announcement comes as Tsuut'ina Nation continues one of the largest Indigenous-led residential developments in Canada. Taza Park, announced in spring 2025, will develop up to 6,500 homes on nation-owned land by the Grey Eagle Casino and Event Centre, just south of Glenmore Trail and east of Tsuut'ina Trail. The community's first residents moved into their new home in March.