The Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) has submitted formal comments in response to the U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s notice of a limited review of the Federal Subsistence Management Program (FSMP) under Title VIII of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). The comments were approved by Tlingit & Haida’s Executive Council and submitted on January 13, 2026.

In the comments submitted, Tlingit & Haida emphasized that subsistence is a way of life for Southeast Alaska tribes and is fundamental to food security, cultural continuity, and the overall wellbeing of Tribal citizens and communities. The Tribe reaffirmed that subsistence priorities for Alaska Native and rural residents are protected under federal law through Title VIII of ANILCA.

Tlingit & Haida strongly opposed efforts to weaken tribal and public representation on the Federal Subsistence Board and Regional Advisory Councils, noting that meaningful participation by subsistence users is both legally required and essential to effective and equitable resource management. The comments also raised concerns about regulatory inconsistencies, the role of the State of Alaska, and the need for stronger subsistence protections during periods of resource stress and environmental change.

The Tribe urged the federal government to uphold its trust responsibility, respect tribal sovereignty, recognize the value of Indigenous Knowledge, and ensure that any changes to the Federal Subsistence Management Program strengthen—rather than undermine—subsistence priorities for Alaska Native and rural communities.

Click here to read Tlingit & Haida’s submitted comments.

We Need Your Voice

The public comment period is a critical opportunity for tribal citizens and communities to explain why subsistence is essential and protected under federal law. The outcome of the review can directly impact how Alaska Native people feed their families, care for their communities, and pass on traditions.

Two Ways to Submit Comments:
Email: subsistence@ios.doi.gov
Submit Online: www.regulations.gov (Docket: DOI-2025-0170)

Submit your public comments by February 13, 2026.