Listen to our elders: Investigating traditional ecological knowledge of salmon in communities of the Lower and Middle Yukon River (Alaska)

Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) about salmon is held and practiced by local fishers and elders in Central Yup'ik, Deg'Hitan and Koyukon communities of the Yukon River. At present this information contributes little to fisheries management on the Yukon River. At the direction of the Yukon River Drainage Fisheries Association, to better understand changing salmon runs, Alaska Native fishers in the communities of Alakanuk, St. Mary's, Holy Cross, and Nulato were interviewed about their observations, knowledge and understanding of king salmon populations and behavior. Participants provided a variety of examples of TEK indicators describing salmon arrival time and run strength. Utilization of TEK increases the level of mutual respect and understanding between local residents and state and federal agencies. This practical bridging of knowledge can positively affect fisheries management in order to protect and preserve salmon species and the livelihood of subsistence and commercial fishing on the Yukon River.