Getting out there

Creek crossing.

Allegra, Grant and I emerged from the densely wooded trail, stepping out onto the wooden bridge for our first view of Resurrection Bay. Mountains jutted up from the water as the evening sun shone through Tonsina Creek valley, and ravens flew overhead. Spawning silver and chum salmon pooled up in riffles below us, and our noses filled with the decaying fish that came before them, soon to be the ravens’ feast.

Bristol Bay leaders grateful for Sen. Murkowski’s directive to follow science in Pebble mine permit review

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:  Ralph Andersen, Bristol Bay Native Association President & CEO, (907) 842-5257Norm Van Vactor, Bristol Bay Economic Development Corporation, (907) 843-2508Nanci Morris Lyon, Bear Trail Lodge, (907) 469-0622Lindsay Layland, United Tribes of Bristol Bay Deputy Director, (907) 843-2401 ANCHORAGE, AK  — Today, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), the Chair of the Interior, Environment

Alaska’s Eklutna River, just add water

As an angler, this is where the problem sinks in. It’s a visible focal point for the issue at hand. On one side, a massive freshwater lake, on the other, a salmon stream that once supported all 5 species of Pacific Salmon sits bone dry.

Help return water to the Eklutna River

Lower Eklutna Dam before removal

For nearly 90 years, the abandoned lower Eklutna Dam blocked salmon migration on the Eklutna River, contributing to the downfall of the salmon fishery. In September of 2018, we, along with many others, rejoiced the successful removal of the lower dam. This dam removal marked a first step in reconnecting 22 miles of salmon habitat and securing a free-flowing future for the Eklutna River.

At home on the Tongass

A Dolly Varden from Alaska's Tongass National Forest.

My father once told me that “home is where you hang your hat.” I believed it, for a time, at least. I mean, as a young boy, who was I to argue with the wisdom of a grownup?  I’ve come to realize, though, that “home” is where everything seems to fall into place just right.