Protecting our salmon is protecting our way of life. Over the next several weeks, Tribal members and community advocates have two important opportunities to speak up and ensure that the experiences of Yukon River families are reflected in state and federal decision-making: the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) and the Alaska Board of Fisheries (BOF).
Both bodies will be considering actions related to salmon management, and public testimony is one of the strongest tools we have to advocate for our river, our food security, and future generations.
Below is a brief overview of how to participate in each process. For step-by-step instructions, deadlines, and additional support, please visit: www.tananachiefs.org/get-involved/yukon-river-salmon-decline/
1. North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC)
Chum Salmon Bycatch Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) – Final Action in February 2026
The NPFMC will take final action on the Chum Salmon Bycatch EIS at its February 2026 Council meeting. This is a critical moment for community voices to be included in the official administrative record.
How to Submit Written Testimony
- Go to NPFMC.org
- Select Our Meetings → Current or Next Council Meetings
- Open the February 2026 Council Meeting agenda
- Navigate to Council → Agenda
- Scroll to C2: Chum Salmon Bycatch – Final Action
- Click Comment to submit your testimony
Written comment deadline: January 30, 2026 at 12:00 PM (Noon AKST)
2. Alaska Board of Fisheries (BOF)
2025–2026 Meeting Cycle: Opportunities to Testify on Proposals Affecting Yukon River Salmon
The Alaska Board of Fisheries (BOF) will accept public testimony on proposals affecting Yukon River salmon during the 2025–2026 meeting cycle, including at the Area M and Statewide meetings. This is another key venue for Tribal members and subsistence users to speak directly to state decision-makers.
How to Submit Written or Oral Testimony:
- Visit the Alaska Board of Fisheries website:
adfg.alaska.gov - Select Fishing → Board of Fisheries
- Navigate to the 2025–2026 Meeting Cycle
- Select either the Area M (Alaska Peninsula / Aleutian Island / Chignik Finfish) or Statewide Meeting
- Follow the links to submit a written comment or sign up for oral testimony
Deadlines and testimony windows vary by meeting, so be sure to check the specific dates for the AYK session. Area M deadline: 2/3/2026 and Statewide 3/2/2026
Need Step-by-Step Help or Support Preparing Testimony?
Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) will post its recommendations on key proposals once available, providing guidance for those preparing comments or testimony.
A detailed walkthrough for both the NPFMC and BOF processes—including screenshots, deadlines, and guidance is available on our website: https://www.tananachiefs.org/get-involved/yukon-river-salmon-decline/
For personalized assistance, please contact:
TCC Tribal Resource Stewardship Department
907-452-8251, ext. 7001