🐟 United Tribes of Bristol Bay – Guardians of Salmon, Culture, and Sovereignty
United Tribes of Bristol Bay (UTBB) is a tribal consortium representing 15 federally recognized Tribes in Southwest Alaska. Founded in 2013, UTBB works to protect the traditional Yup’ik, Dena’ina, and Alutiiq ways of life, which are deeply connected to the pristine waters and abundant salmon of the Bristol Bay watershed.
🌊 Mission and Core Focus Areas
UTBB’s mission is to safeguard the lands, waters, and cultures of Bristol Bay through four strategic focus areas:
- Environmental Stewardship: Ensuring the long-term guardianship of lands, air, and waters that sustain traditional ways of life.
- Tribal Self-Determination: Empowering Tribes to exercise sovereignty and self-governance.
- Sustainable Development: Promoting economic initiatives that honor traditional Native values.
- Community Wellbeing: Advancing cultural and community health for thriving, resilient communities.
🛡️ Advocacy and Achievements
UTBB has been at the forefront of efforts to protect Bristol Bay from threats such as the proposed Pebble Mine, which posed significant risks to the region’s salmon populations and Indigenous communities. Through persistent advocacy, UTBB played a pivotal role in mobilizing public support and influencing policy decisions to safeguard the watershed.
🤝 Member Tribes
The consortium comprises the following member Tribes:
- Togiak Traditional Council
- Twin Hills Village Council
- Manokotak Village Council
- Curyung Tribal Council
- Ekuk Village Council
- Clark’s Point Village Council
- Aleknagik Traditional Council
- Portage Creek Village Council
- New Stuyahok Traditional Council
- New Koliganek Village Council
- Levelock Village Council
- Nondalton Village Council
- Pilot Point Tribal Council
- Pedro Bay Village Council
- Chignik Lake Tribal Council