.png)
Ahtna Territory Migratory Birds Co-Management Council
Formerly the Copper River Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (CRMBCC)
The Ahtna Territory Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (ATMBCC) represents regional interests in the management and conservation of migratory birds throughout Ahtna Territory. The council provides a forum for Tribal representatives to participate in migratory bird management decisions, share traditional knowledge, and advocate for subsistence harvesting opportunities.
Through collaboration with the Alaska Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (AMBCC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other partners, ATMBCC works to ensure that regional perspectives and traditional subsistence practices are considered in migratory bird regulations.
Funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In partnership with Alaska Migratory Bird Co-Management Council and Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Background.
The Alaska Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (AMBCC) was established in 2000 to provide Alaska Native representatives with a formal role in the management of migratory birds, particularly those harvested for subsistence during the spring and summer. It consists of the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, and representatives from the Alaska Native population.
​
The AMBCC is split up by region, with AITRC overseeing the AMBCC's Copper River Migratory Birds Co-Management Council (CRMBCC). CRMBCC activities include setting and adjusting, as necessary, annual spring and summer subsistence bird hunting regulations in the Ahtna Territory (GMU 11, 12, 13). In addition, AITRC now hosts the AMBCC Executive Director, further strengthening our role in the co-management of migratory bird resources in Alaska.
​
For more information on the AMBCC, visit their website: www.alaskamigratorybirds.com
Ahtna Territory Migratory Bird Co-Management Council.
​On March 9, 2026, the council held its Regular Regional Spring Meeting. During the meeting, members approved and adopted amendments to the Regional Migratory Bird Council Bylaws, including a change from the Copper River Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (CRMBCC) to the Ahtna Territory Migratory Bird Co-Management Council (ATMBCC).
The council is also formally known as the Regional Migratory Bird Co-Management Council of the Ahtna Territory.
The updated name better reflects the council's connection to Ahtna Territory and the communities it represents.
Regulatory Engagement.
ATMBCC works to ensure that migratory bird regulations consider the needs of subsistence harvesters throughout Ahtna Territory. Council members review proposed regulatory changes, discuss regional concerns, and bring recommendations forward through the AMBCC regulatory process.
​
In 2025, two regulatory proposals were developed and submitted for consideration. Both proposals have since been brought before the AMBCC Board.
Regulatory Engagement.
ATMBCC works to ensure that migratory bird regulations consider the needs of subsistence harvesters throughout Ahtna Territory. Council members review proposed regulatory changes, discuss regional concerns, and bring recommendations forward through the AMBCC regulatory process.
In 2025, two regulatory proposals were developed and submitted for consideration. Both proposals have since been brought before the AMBCC Board.
Regional Designation
Disease can be an important factor influencing wild sheep populations. Respiratory infections, parasites, and other health conditions may affect individual survival and reproductive success.
By examining biological samples, researchers can investigate the presence of potential pathogens and parasites, helping establish baseline information about diseases circulating in Dall sheep populations.
​
This information may help identify emerging health concerns and support future monitoring efforts.
ATMBCC Committee!
The ATMBCC is composed of representatives from the eight federally recognized Tribes of the Ahtna Territory. Each Tribe appoints delegates to ensure regional voices, harvest experiences, and community priorities are reflected in regulatory discussions. The ATMBCC holds regional meetings to discuss migratory bird management, review regulatory proposals, and provide opportunities for Tribal representatives to share observations and concerns from their communities.
​
These meetings support communication between regional representatives and statewide management agencies, helping ensure that decisions are informed by both traditional knowledge and scientific information.
​
The Committee serves as the regional advisory body to the statewide AMBCC and participates in collaborative decision-making with federal and state partners.
Shirley 'Tursy' Smelcer
Chair
Native Village of Kluti Kaah
Katie Finnesand
Committee Member
Michael Jordan
Committee Member
Native Village of Chitina
Mentasta Traditional Council
Robert Sequak
Committee Member
Evelyn Beeter
Vice Chair
Cheesh'na Tribe
Native Village of Gakona
Donna Renard
Committee Member
Native Village of Tazlina
Nicholas Jackson
Committee Member
David Nicklie
Committee Member
Native Village of Cantwell
Gulkana Village
Project Leads: Deanna Kosbruk | Questions on this project?