Tribal Governance & Stewardship

The College of Indigenous Studies' project provides interactive training, knowledge exchanges, practical projects, consultation and leadership development for Alaska Native peoples in areas relevant to the stewardship of traditional resources and territories.

Tribal Governance & Stewardship (TGS) courses, events, and curriculum provide the knowledge and skills to protect, ensure adequate access to, and participation in the management of local wild food resources. This unique curriculum incorporates traditional and western approaches to natural resources management, with Alaska Native Elders providing a strong guiding force in the classroom. Courses provide practical instruction on: 1) stewardship planning; 2) geographical information systems (GIS); 3) developing and managing tribal natural resource programs; 4) natural resources management structures and systems in Alaska; and 4) effective participation and representation in the decision-making process related to local food security.

TGS curriculum focuses on developing student leadership skills in: critical thinking and communication; project, program, and organizational management; advocacy and public speaking; technology and governance. The project will support institutes and public forums where students will be able to use and hone their leadership skills to represent the needs of their communities. TGS courses and events provide opportunities for increasing dialogue for sustainable management of food, land, and water resources among Alaska Natives, state and federal agencies, and University of Alaska faculty and researchers.

More information: https://www.uaf.edu/tribal/

Carrie Stevens, Associate Professor (907) 474-2616 | cmstevens@alaska.edu

Laurie Trotta, Coordinator (907) 474-5826 | ltrotta@alaska.edu

Photo: Tribal Governance & Stewardship class that testified before Alaska Board of Fish and Game and influenced the outcome of three rulings.