Subsistence Access

Location: Alaska

Start Date: May 14, 2014

Funding: NASA

Description: This project includes observation of events that interrupt or improve normal access to subsistence resources. The purpose is to increase understanding about access as an important dimension of subsistence. Observations in the system come from two sources, normal LEO Network Observations as well as a special project developed by UAF. With funding from NASA, UAF researchers worked with tribal councils from nine Interior Alaska communities to document changes in the environment that are affecting hunters ability to traverse the land and access traditional and customary use areas. Participants document 5-15 changes/disturbances per month for 12 consecutive months. The team is currently assessing the images for trends in changes across space (boreal forest wide) and time (1980s to present).

Observing Protocols: Observers are asked to share observations of extreme or unusual environmental events that disrupt subsistence harvest because of interruptions of access. Examples include lack of snow or ice, and changes to the land, surface waters or ocean that create unusual challenges for subsistence hunters and gatherers.

Outputs: Selected LEO Network observations will be added to the project map. Observers are invited to participate in a community of practice on the topic, which may include training and sharing of methods and an on-going discussion. Observations will also be used to identify and evaluate community vulnerability to subsistence access challenges and for evaluation of potential prevention and adaptation measures.

Project Updates: Reserved for Project Leads

Resources:

Arctic communities perceive climate impacts on access as a critical challenge to availability of subsistence resources Brinkman et. al. Climate Change, 2016.