Each summer, Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) hosts its Annual Partners Boat Trip—a unique opportunity to bring state and federal decision-makers directly into the heart of Interior Alaska. This year’s trip, held from July 8–10, included visits to the villages of Evansville, Allakaket, Alatna, Hughes, and Huslia.
The trip builds meaningful connections between Tribal leaders, community members, and influential policymakers and granting agencies. It provides a platform for firsthand dialogue about the pressing challenges and opportunities facing rural Alaska—from infrastructure and healthcare to housing, public safety, and the protection of traditional ways of life.
This year’s boat trip welcomed a diverse group of participants, including representatives from state and federal agencies, Congressional offices, Tribal organizations, granting agencies, public safety, and infrastructure and health entities. Their presence helped ensure that the concerns of Tribal communities were heard directly by those who shape policy and funding decisions.
Throughout the trip, community leaders shared their priorities and challenges—including the urgent need for affordable housing, improved healthcare access, more consistent law enforcement presence, and action to address the salmon crisis. Site visits, cultural exchanges, and community meals created meaningful opportunities for visiting partners to better understand life in rural Alaska and to witness the strength and resilience of these communities.
“We can write reports and submit testimony, but nothing replaces being here—seeing the beauty of our land, talking face-to-face with Elders and leaders, and understanding what’s truly at stake for our people and our future,” said Chief Brian Ridley.
As Interior Alaska continues to navigate the compounded impacts of climate change, economic disparity, and aging infrastructure, the Partners Boat Trip serves as a critical step in building understanding and strengthening partnerships in Tribal communities.
TCC extends its sincere thanks to the communities of Evansville, Allakaket, Alatna, Hughes, and Huslia for their warm hospitality and for sharing their time, stories, and priorities. We are also grateful to all those who joined the trip and took the time to listen, learn, and engage more deeply with the needs and realities of our rural communities.
