Herring Fishery
Dear Editor: We have addressed the following letter to the Sitka Sound commercial sac roe fishermen.
Harvesting herring roe from branches, kelp, and seaweed has been an important part of traditional culture in Sitka Sound since time immemorial. But, as you are no doubt aware, the practice of commercially contracted subsistence vessels to gather herring eggs on an industrial scale, poses problems for the continued customary and traditional subsistence harvest in Sitka Sound.
As previously relayed, the industry contract boats crowd out and displace traditional harvesters from core subsistence areas. The contract boats entangle tree sets with traditional harvesters, then drag all sets from their careful place; this practice destroys subsistence sets and displaces markers, making any surviving sets unfindable.
This industry give-away resembles an unhealthy welfare program that undermines the values, skills, and relationships formed through the cultural harvest and distribution system. An anonymous give-away lacks the spirit of mutual dependence, reciprocity, and trust that is built through community subsistence efforts. We also have serious concerns about whether the industry’s harvest and distribution practice is consistent with the laws and regulations governing subsistence taking and use of herring roe. Simply stated: ‘‘This is Not the Right Way.’’
The Sitka Tribal Council is resolute in protecting the Sitka Sound herring stock and our customary and traditional way of life. The Council therefore respectfully asks that you consider stand down from this year’s industry hired harvest of roe on branches and put a halt to the harm and injury it brings to the customary and traditional subsistence harvest.
Standing down from the industry harvest of roe on branches would be a good step towards opening up better communication and relationship between industry and the Tribe as we move forward on issues related to the Sitka Sound herring stock and fisheries. We look forward to walking together on the right path to promote the abundance and health of Sitka Sound and its people.
KathyHope Erickson,
Tribal Council Chairman,
Sitka Tribe of Alaska
School Survey
Dear Editor: The Sitka School District thanks the 377 families who took the School Climate and Connectedness survey. The survey included questions about safety, cultural connectedness, and volunteer opportunities. Last year’s results can be found at www.sitkaschools.org. Results help us improve communication and connectedness for students and families. Here are recent efforts one school, Baranof Elementary, has taken to improve communication and connectedness.
Baranof invites families to school-wide events highlighting family fun, social emotional learning, positive behavior, and schoolwide curriculum. The school has hosted an ice cream social, a fall carnival, a Bring Back the Fish night, family BBQs, and monthly school-wide assemblies that include families. Principal Jill Lecrone communicates in many ways: a school newsletter, the Remind app, the electronic message board, emails, and PSAs. Families volunteer every day in Baranof classrooms.
Your participation in the SCCS survey will help the Sitka School Board monitor its goal of improving the positive response rates in the areas of climate, safety, and involvement. Thank you for helping us reach this goal.
Kari Sagel, STEPS Grant,
Sitka School District
