Owner and Operator of Buffords Ranch
Ernest Bufford is California’s largest Black-owned cattle rancher and a visionary land steward whose work bridges conservation, culture, and community. A former California Highway Patrol officer and U.S. Marshal, Ernest founded Bufford Ranch in 2001 with a mission to protect agricultural land from unchecked development and ensure it remains productive, ecologically healthy, and historically respected.
Over the past two decades, he has preserved over 930 acres of working rangeland across six distinct ecosystems, including grasslands, oak woodlands, and riparian zones. In partnership with the California Rangeland Trust, he established long-term conservation easements that protect vital wildlife corridors, watersheds, and rare species such as the Bakersfield Cactus and Kern Primrose Sphinx Moth. His land serves as critical habitat for deer, mountain lions, bears, bobcats, and a variety of migratory birds.
Ernest is also deeply committed to cultural preservation. Collaborating with Cal State Bakersfield and local tribal groups, he has uncovered and protected Native American artifacts and historical items dating back over 3,200 years, honoring the deep human history embedded in the land.He leads with humility, conviction, and a powerful sense of legacy—encouraging neighboring ranchers to engage in conservation and helping shape a future rooted in sustainability, justice, and connection to the land.
Owner of Golden Ranch Estates Manager and Wrangler of Buffords Ranch
Stefenie’s journey began in STEM, earning her degree in Aviation Science from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore before contributing as a coder on the James Webb Space Telescope—an experience that reflects her deep curiosity and respect for both the technological and natural worlds. During her studies, she utilized drones and ARC GIS systems to analyze soil nitrogen levels by calculating ratio points—blending cutting-edge technology with sustainable farming practices, and proving that innovation and land stewardship go hand in hand.
Today, as co-operator and manager of Bufford Ranch, Stefenie carries forward Ernest Bufford’s legacy by merging traditional ranching values with a forward-thinking, inclusive vision. Her leadership ensures that the land remains both productive and ecologically healthy. At the same time, her passion for education opens doors for underserved communities. By transforming the ranch into a hands-on learning environment, she empowers the next generation to see themselves as stewards of the land—equipped with skills, representation, and purpose. Her work not only preserves the integrity of the ranch but also helps shape a more just, informed, and sustainable future.
Drawing on her STEM and aviation background—industries where precision and safety are non-negotiable—Stefenie transformed Bufford Ranch into a benchmark for operational excellence. She led the implementation of comprehensive safety systems that protect people, livestock, equipment, and the environment.
Through rigorous risk assessments and structured protocols, she introduced aviation-style checklists, emergency response plans, and continuous staff training that embedded a culture of safety at every level. Her data-driven approach improved livestock health, reduced equipment failures, and enhanced environmental sustainability.
Under Stefenie’s leadership, Bufford Ranch is not only more productive—it's a model of safety, accountability, and forward-thinking land stewardship.