Economic Crisis in Gulf of Alaska Indigenous Communities
This article is produced as part of the Pulitzer Center’s StoryReach U.S. Fellowship and the Public Media Accountability Initiative, supporting investigative reporting at local media outlets. Reported by Northern Journal and APM Reports, with support from Alaska Public Media.
Indigenous villages along the Gulf of Alaska have faced an economic catastrophe for decades, with over 80% of survey respondents expressing a “crisis of sustainability” due to lost access to fisheries. Indigenous leaders urge Alaska legislators to reform the 1973 Limited Entry Act, which restricts fishing participation unless residents purchase costly state permits, rendering the industry inaccessible for many young residents.
Joe Nelson of Sealaska, a regional Native corporation, emphasized the urgency of legislative action to ensure future generations can continue traditional fishing practices. However, many lawmakers, focused on urban issues, show little awareness of this crisis, leading to stalled discussions and no upcoming reform proposals. Senate President Gary Stevens acknowledged the complexities but failed to engage meaningfully with community concerns during a recent reception.
While some lawmakers recognize the issue, there is a lack of consensus on how to proceed. Additionally, existing permit holders express concerns about the impact of any legislative changes on their livelihoods. Stakeholder dialogues are needed as rural communities intersect with the interests of urban fishermen.
The 1973 act aimed to enhance sustainability but has resulted in significant permit losses in rural areas. Notably, one village, Ouzinkie, now has just one fishing skipper remaining. Tribes are seeking collective ownership options, such as community trusts, but face resistance from established fishing groups.
Amid rising pressure, lawmakers must navigate a complex landscape, balancing the needs of rural communities with the realities facing current permit holders to find equitable solutions for Alaska’s fishing future.
Source
Photo credit alaskapublic.org
