Native America Calling: Federal officials weigh the environmental value of a massive swath of Alaska land

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Thursday, February 8, 2024

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A coalition of Alaska Native tribes and organizations are urging federal officials to continue protections for 28 million acres of land in Alaska.

Their action comes as the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is considering whether to remove protections against mining and other development that have been in place since the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) more than half a century ago. The lands are referred to as D-1 lands, referencing the section number in the ANCSA text.

The BLM is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Statement. The public comment period for that process ends soon.

Curious why keeping Alaskaʻs D-1 lands protected is important? @AudubonAlaska1 has all the details, and information on how YOU can help make sure they stay protected: https://t.co/mNjcIYeU6T #Alaska #publiclands
— Trustees for Alaska (@TrusteesForAK) February 6, 2024

Guests on Native America Calling

Malinda Chase (tribal member of Anvik, Alaska), advisor for the Bering Sea-Interior Tribal Commission and tribal liaison for the Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center

Eugene Paul (Holy Cross Tribe), Chief of Holy Cross Tribe and Chairman of the Bering Sea Interior Tribal Commission

Michael “Mickey” Stickman (Yukon Koyukon), former first chief of the Nulato Tribal Council and executive board member of the Bering Sea-Interior Tribal Commission

Lisa Ellanna (member of King Island Native Community), advisory group member for the Bering Sea-Interior Tribal Commission and staff member of Kawerak Inc.