Salmon, stewardship, and indigenous livelihoods: bridging knowledge systems and reshaping research relationality in the Kuskokwim Region of southwestern Alaska

Abstract

This dissertation research is situated in southwestern Alaska, in the communities of Kongiganak, Quinhagak, Bethel, Aniak, and McGrath, spanning the Kuskokwim Bay and Kuskokwim River, and with Alaska Native Peoples (primarily Yup'ik and Athabascan fishing families) who have been salmon peoples and stewards of their ancestral homelands since time immemorial. This Indigenous-led project documented historical and current ways in which Yup'ik and Athabascan Peoples have served as salmon stewards, and the values and governance mechanisms pertaining to salmon stewardship. We utilized a participatory approach by involving Tribal governments, communities, and Indigenous local youth in all aspects of our research. We carried out multiple methods including: participant observation, circle dialogues, and individual and multigenerational fishing family interviews with Kuskokwim fishers in the coastal, lower, middle, and headwater communities of the Kuskokwim Region. We used a grounded theory approach to qualitative data analysis that generated five key themes that form the first chapter of this dissertation including: traditional Indigenous ways of life, Indigenous stewardship, self-determination, food and livelihood sovereignty, and ecosystem changes. This chapter identified equitable and sustainable paths forward for salmon and people in Alaska. Chapter two of this dissertation bridged perspectives and experiences around the state of salmon management and research, with a focus on Alaska Native inclusion in these processes and organizations, equity, equality, and relationships. Lastly, the third chapter of this dissertation research highlights the methodologies utilized in this research process, with an emphasis on circle dialogues as a core methodology for building initial relationships and partnerships between Tribes and universities, and as a mechanism to shape the research in a way that is aligned with Tribal priorities and respecting Tribal sovereignty. This chapter highlights the importance of including local Alaska Native youth in research, spending time in community and building relationships, because it is these relationships that serve as a core foundation for carrying out research in a 'good way'.