By Koniag, Sealaska, The Nature Conservancy, Rasmuson Foundation, Spruce Root, the Sustainable Southeast Partnership

This study investigates the socioeconomic and cultural impacts of fisheries access limitation programs, such as limited entry and individual fishing quotas (IFQs), on Alaska Native villages in the Gulf of Alaska. The research documents how these programs have altered local economies, disrupted cultural practices, and contributed to outmigration. A 2024 survey of over 4,300 Koniag and Sealaska shareholders and descendants reveals that fishing is a central element of economic and cultural life, with 98% of respondents affirming its importance. However, 80% report that limited access to fisheries has led to significant community crises. Since the introduction of limited entry in the 1970’s, permit ownership in key fisheries has declined by 32%, with the Koniag region experiencing a more severe decline of 63%. Halibut quota ownership has also fallen by 69%. The Community Quota Entity (CQE) program, aimed at restoring some access, has had limited success. The survey results emphasize that fishing is a vital part of cultural identity and village sustainability, with 90% of respondents stating that village survival depends on access to fisheries. Strikingly, only 12-13% of respondents have any current engagement in commercial fishing; only 11% agree that the future looks good for young people who stay in the regional villages. In contrast, the Metlakatla Indian Community, while experiencing similar trends with limited entry and IFQs, manages their own active Tribal fisheries where fishing participation, youth engagement, and earnings are high. The study suggests that significant policy reforms to restore fishing access, especially for Indigenous youth, are necessary to avoid continued economic decline and negative social and cultural impacts. The report calls for targeted policies to support fishing livelihoods and village sustainability in the Gulf of Alaska.

Read it here.