About us.

Learn more about AITRC and the Ahtna Territory

Who we are:

Stewardship through Tradition

The Ahtna Intertribal Resource Commission (AITRC) was formed in 2011 after many years of planning to conserve, manage, and research the fish, wildlife, and plant resources of the Ahtna Region according to culturally relevant values.

The AITRC Board of Directors is made up of Tribal representatives who have spent their lives on the land. Ahtna culture reflects thousands of years of stewardship of the hunting, fishing, and gathering resources across Ahtna Territory. This deep connection to place continues to guide the work of the organization today.

AITRC is committed to integrating traditional ecological knowledge with scientific best practices to support responsible stewardship of natural resources. Together, these approaches guide the policies, research, and programs carried out by the organization.

AITRC was created to serve as a coordinating body for subsistence resources in Ahtna Territory and to support Tribal leadership in natural resource stewardship and management.

Membership includes the federally recognized tribes of the Native Village of Cantwell, Mentasta Traditional Council, Cheesh'na Tribe, Native Village of Gakona, Gulkana Village, Native Village of Tazlina, Native Village of Kluti-Kaah, and Native Village of Chitina. As landholders, the Alaska Native Corporations Ahtna Incorporated and Chitina Native Corporation are also members.

What we do:

Science and Advocacy rooted in Tradition

AITRC works to study, monitor, and support policies that allow Ahtna people to continue thriving on the land.

Our work supports Tribal self-determination, food security, and continued access to subsistence resources. Through research, monitoring programs, education, and collaboration with Tribal governments and partners, AITRC helps ensure that fish, wildlife, and plant resources remain healthy and sustainable for future generations.

These efforts help support sustainable fish and wildlife populations and responsible harvest practices that continue to meet the cultural, nutritional, and economic needs of Ahtna people.

By combining scientific research with traditional ecological knowledge, AITRC works to strengthen stewardship, increase community self-reliance, and ensure that the lands and waters of Ahtna Territory continue to provide for families and communities.

Timeline

AITRC was formed

2011

Since time immemorial Ahtna people have stewarded these lands

1971

Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act

1980

The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act was signed December 2, 1980, ensuring Alaska Natives can continue their traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering practices on their lands.