The Administration’s final Record of Decision (ROD) to adopt the No Action Alternative for the Ambler Road project is a significant victory for Alaska Native communities. This decision protects one of Alaska’s most crucial watersheds, ensuring the health and vitality of entire ecosystems within the Brooks Range and Gates of the Arctic National Park.
“TCC applauds the Biden Administration’s decision to reject the Ambler Road Project. The No Action Alternative was the only responsible choice given the overwhelming evidence that the road would harm Alaska’s lands, animals, and people. Despite ongoing opposition, it is clear this project poses a severe threat to our fragile ecosystems. We are grateful for the Administration’s commitment to standing firm and urge them to continue protecting our environment,” says TCC Chief Brian Ridley, “This Record of Decision marks a significant step forward in the fight for Indigenous rights and environmental justice, and we call on the Administration and our delegation to uphold this well-implemented process.”
Additionally, the Biden Administration announced the final Environmental Impact Statement recommending the No Action Alternative for the 17(D)(1) region of Alaska. This decision protects 28 million acres of land, safeguarding the livelihoods of countless animals, ecosystems, and Indigenous communities. This move corrects the lack of consultation from the previous administration and reinforces the importance of preserving Alaskan ecosystems amidst the climate crisis.
In another impactful move, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced yesterday the complete transfer of the Office of Subsistence Management (OSM) from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to the Office of the Assistant Secretary – Policy, Management, and Budget. The move, effective July 15, 2024, strengthens federal subsistence policy and structure, and ensures that federally qualified subsistence users and Alaska Native people have an opportunity for meaningful engagement in its implementation.
“For thousands of years, subsistence practices have been immensely important for Alaska Native communities, and remain deeply intertwined with their lifeways, food security, and cultures,” the report states, “Nowhere else in the United States is there such a heavy reliance upon wild foods.”
TCC commends the Biden Administration’s recent actions, which bring hope for the future of Alaska’s lands, waterways, wildlife, and people. Now more than ever, it is crucial to listen to and follow the wisdom and practices of traditional Indigenous knowledge. These recent decisions demonstrate that government entities can indeed be stewards of the land.