Copper River Basin Symposium

Tradition, Science, Stewardship

The free event open to the public, is a two day symposium followed by a synthesis workshop. It was a great success on February 18, 19 and 20th at the Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve Visitor Center in Copper Center, Alaska.

Presenters shared scientific research and cultural knowledge in Alaska's Copper River Basin. It included 26 presentations on local topics, 2 keynote speakers, a poster session, and an evening talk. A panel discussion delved into opportunities and challenges in working with indigenous communities. Ahtna elders provided wisdom in daily welcomes, and there was a presentation by Copper River Stewardship Program youth.

Topics ranged widely from fisheries to archaeology to geology to climate change, but all related closely to the Copper River Basin. As well as sharing knowledge, participants shared meals, personal connections, stories, and ideas. Moose stew and salmon chowder nourished and rooted us to the land.

This event represents the heart of the Copper River Valley - convening people and knowledge, celebrating our commonalities, finding bridges across our differences. It could not have happened without a team of partners: Ahtna Heritage Foundation, Ahtna Intertribal Resource Commission, Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment, Copper River Watershed project, Wrangell Mountains Center, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

The symposium was a celebration of the region, and the hard work done by the people who study, manage, love, and rely on our resources. It inspired growth and cooperation between diverse groups, and helped raise awareness of the roles of science and tradition, and the importance of stewardship.

Symposium presentation abstracts and poster session images.

More salmon articles and info at Copper River Watershed Project