New online UAF class explores bond between Alaska Natives, salmon

November 21, 2018

Marissa Carl-Acosta
907-455-2070

Alaska is the remaining stronghold of salmon-producing ecosystems, and the bond between Alaskans and salmon runs deep.

A new fully online course offered by the University of Alaska Fairbanks will explore these relationships with an emphasis on the contemporary and traditional ties between Alaska Natives and salmon.

During the 15-week course, students will explore linkages between salmon and indigenous peoples’ food security, subsistence traditions and ways of life. The course will also cover contemporary western society and its connections to salmon through activities such as commercial and recreational fisheries.

Instructor Peter Westley, a researcher in UAF’s College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, developed the course to inform students about the major challenges facing salmon ecosystems and salmon-dependent communities.

“A major course goal is to have students become more informed and empowered to confront the challenges facing the relationships between salmon and salmon-dependent societies in the 21st century,” Westley said.

Students, who can participate from around the state, will be able to fit the course into their schedules. There is no set meeting time, just weekly deadlines for assignments and class engagement. Although students will not be in the same room together, the class is designed to build a community of trust and to foster meaningful dialogue on a range of topics, Westley said.

At the end of the semester, students will take what they have learned and host a community discussion in their hometown. Using frameworks and strategies discussed in class, students will lead conversations about salmon-people connections and controversies within their own communities.

Registration is now open for degree-seeking students. All others can register on Nov. 26 at https://ecampus.uaf.edu/salmon/. Class begins on Jan. 14.