In Anchorage, Alaska, communities thrive off of impressive salmon returns, leaning on the seafood economy to make a living and feed their families. However, as climate change affects salmon abundance and distribution, Native Alaskan communities along the Yukon River and Kuskokwim River watersheds, as well as parts of the Alaska Peninsula like Chignik, have recently faced low returns.
On the flip side, Bristol Bay has seen record-breaking salmon returns, leading to a community effort to redistribute resources and support Native families. Meet Fish for Families, a group initiative between tribal organizations, community leaders, and local fishermen to deliver Bristol Bay sockeye salmon to families in Southwest Alaska.
The program initially began during the pandemic to help families in need, but when the community saw the ongoing impact of climate change…