As salmon disappear, a battle over Alaska Native fishing rights heats up

In 2021, the disappearance of salmon in western Alaska posed a huge threat to the region, affecting rural families, commercial fisherfolk, and Alaska Native traditions. This crisis has also ignited a legal battle over fishing rights on federal lands between Native stakeholders, the Biden administration, and the state. The conflict revolves around the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act and its provisions, and has resulted in a lawsuit and heightened stakes due to climate change impacts on salmon populations. The court case, now before the U.S. District Court for Alaska, is likely to intensify in the coming months with a ruling expected in the spring.