Kwanlin Dün First Nation is urging all Citizens to join in protecting Yukon River Chinook Salmon during this time of crisis. Chinook numbers are at only 10–20% of their historical averages, with an estimated 24,000 fish in the Canadian portion of the river—far below the 71,000-target required before any subsistence harvest under the seven-year agreement between Alaska and Yukon. This year, there is no opportunity to subsistence fish for Yukon River Chinook in Canada, and all Yukon First Nations have agreed not to harvest.

Within Kwanlin Dün Traditional Territory, including the Takhini River, Michie Creek, and McClintock River, returns are equally low. Every single fish is needed on the spawning grounds to give the species a chance to rebuild. As stewards of the land and water, we have a responsibility to ensure future generations will have salmon in the KDFN traditional territory.

Conservation is the core principle of Chapter 16 of the Yukon First Nations Final Agreements, and section 16.5.5.1 provides Kwanlin Dün First Nation the authority to regulate the harvesting rights of its Citizens. In accordance with this responsibility, the Kwanlin Dün Government has issued a clear directive: no fishing for Yukon River Chinook by KDFN Citizens this season. Your cooperation is essential to helping restore this sacred species for the future. Shä̀w níthän, másin cho, gunałchÎsh, and thank you.