Spring 2026 Newsletter
A Season of Strength, Solidarity, and Forward Movement
As the river begins to open and spring returns to the Kuskokwim, we are reminded that this work—protecting our waters, our salmon, and our way of life—is deeply rooted in community. Speaking of community it was wonderful to see so many of our friends and relatives at Camai Dance Festival this year! Quayana for coming by the Mother Kuskokwim table and showing us so much support.
Sophie Swope and Ashlynn Simeon speak at 2026 Cama'i
This season brings both continued challenges and meaningful progress in our collective efforts. In this newsletter, you will find updates on:
Ongoing typhoon rebuilding efforts and US Congressional field hearing
Rally for the River June 5th in Mamterilleq
Community return of the salmon celebration June 13th in Mamterilleq
Bering Sea Western Interior Tribal Commission joins efforts to stop Donlin Gold
Litigation related to the Proposed Donlin Gold project
Supplemental EIS Process and tentative community meetings this fall
Doyon owned Flat gold project moves forward 25 miles north of Donlin
Ongoing Typhoon Rebuilding Efforts
Our communities continue to feel the impacts of last season’s devastating typhoon. Recovery is ongoing, and many families are still navigating housing instability, infrastructure damage, and food security challenges. Mother Kuskokwim remains committed to supporting our communities as the work of relocation and rebuilding continues. Please consider ongoing donations for our relatives whose lives are forever impacted.
Save the Date: Rally for the River
June 5th
Calling all water protectors to show up and show our community where we stand!
Community Return of the Salmon Celebration
June 13, 2026
We invite you to join us in celebrating the return of the salmon—a powerful reminder of resilience, culture, and connection to the river. This gathering will bring together families, Elders, and community members to honor our relationship with salmon and reaffirm our commitment to protecting this way of life for future generations. More details to come soon—we hope to see you there.
Growing Support Across the Region
We are honored to share that the Bering Sea Western Interior Tribal Coalition has joined in support of efforts to protect the Kuskokwim River and the communities who depend on it. This growing alignment among Tribal coalitions reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding our waters, salmon, and ways of life across regions. Together, our voices are stronger, and our collective advocacy continues to build momentum.
Litigation Update: A Major Win and What Comes Next with Supplemental EIS Process
This past year marked a significant legal victory for the Tribes of the Kuskokwim. A federal court ruled that the environmental review for the proposed Donlin Gold mine was insufficient, requiring a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) to fully evaluate risks—particularly the potential impacts of a large-scale tailings dam failure.
The SEIS process is now underway to more thoroughly examine risks to our river, salmon, and communities and whether or not those risks are ones we want to take. Mother Kuskokwim has been meeting with Tribal councils throughout our region to ensure everyone has the information needed to engage meaningfully in this SEIS process to ensure Tribal voices, Indigenous knowledge, and community concerns are fully represented.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, community meetings on the Draft SEIS are tentatively planned for October 2026.
State of Alaska Water Quality Litigation Update
Oral arguments in ongoing litigation over whether or not Donlin would meet state water quality standards have been postponed, extending the timeline for judicial review. In a statement on the case ONC Board Chairman Walter Jim stated, “In continuing to uphold this unlawful water quality certificate, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is dismissing the damage we know the mine will cause to salmon,” said ONC Chairman Walter Jim. “This water quality certificate knowingly and illegally sacrifices salmon, which our people depend on for their existence, and should be rescinded.”
Regional Mining Update: Doyon Exploration Near Donlin
A new gold exploration effort, called the Flat Project, is moving forward on Doyon lands just north of the proposed Donlin Gold project. Doyon is partnering with a Canada based mining company, Tectonic Metals, to begin a large exploration drilling program in the area this year, with the site located roughly 25 miles from the proposed Donlin mine.
Moving Forward Together
This work is long-term. It requires persistence, unity, and a shared commitment to future generations. From disaster recovery to legal advocacy to cultural celebration, each step forward is made possible by the strength of our communities standing together. Thank you for being part of this movement.
In solidarity,
Mother Kuskokwim Tribal Coalition leadership team.
Bev Hoffman, Gloria Simeon, Sophie Swope, Ashlynn Simeon