Honoring 8,000 Years of Indigenous Caretaking
For over 8,000 years—more than 300 generations—the people of Igiugig have lived on and cared for these lands. The region has an archaeological district encompassing more than 21 documented sites, each a testament to the deep and continuous relationship between the Igyararmiut and the Kvichak River. This land holds our history and our responsibility to protect it for future generations.
Igiugig is recognized for its innovative stewardship practices, blending Indigenous knowledge passed down over millennia with modern scientific research and technology. These efforts have strengthened our role as land protectors, ensuring that stewardship remains in Indigenous hands. However, as climate change, industrial development, and outside pressures threaten these lands and waters, our ability to expand this work is critical.
Current and Ongoing Efforts
Igiugig’s leadership in land stewardship is rooted in both policy and action. The community has enacted forward-thinking measures to protect its traditional lands and is actively engaged in on-the-ground conservation efforts.
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Tribally Designated Protected Area Ordinance – Igiugig has taken legal steps to ensure that Indigenous values and stewardship principles are prioritized in land management, fostering co-stewardship agreements with state and federal agencies.
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Lake Iliamna & Bristol Bay Indigenous Guardians Program – Igiugig’s Guardians monitor, protect, and manage traditional lands and waters, using both Indigenous knowledge and western science to track environmental changes, prevent damage, and advocate for stronger protections.
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Salmon & Watershed Protection – As the headwaters of the world’s largest wild sockeye salmon fishery, this region requires constant monitoring and defense from environmental threats, including industrial pollution and climate-related changes.
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Climate Change & Habitat Restoration – The community is actively involved in tracking climate impacts on local ecosystems and implementing restoration efforts to ensure long-term environmental resilience.
The Need for Expansion
Despite Igiugig’s success in blending Indigenous knowledge with western conservation models, long-term stewardship requires sustainable funding. The Kuicaak Fund has set a $5 million goal to support the expansion and sustainability of land stewardship efforts.
The land, the water, and the salmon cannot protect themselves. It is up to us. Expanding Indigenous-led stewardship is not just about conservation—it is about sovereignty, responsibility, and ensuring that the land continues to sustain our people for generations to come.
Invest in Local Workforce
Support existing and future staff expansion costs to strengthen local land stewardship capacity.
Train Our Indigenous Leaders
Expand training programs and regional collaboration, ensuring that more Indigenous leaders are prepared to take on stewardship roles.
Prepare the Path for Our Neighbors
Leverage funding opportunities to help other Tribal communities across Bristol Bay implement their own Indigenous Guardians programs.
Preserve Traditional Land Stewardship
Ensure that Indigenous knowledge and land management practices are at the center of decision-making for the future of these lands and waters.
