Federal Cuts Impact Food Security in Alaska Native Villages
The crucial struggle for food security continues in Alaska, as recent federal cuts jeopardize community initiatives that have been the lifeblood for many Alaska Native villages. Among those feeling the pinch are the residents of Tyonek, a small community farm on the shores of Cook Inlet, aiming to enhance local food sovereignty with sustainable practices.
Growing Challenges: The Tyonek Grown Initiative
As spring unfolds, Tyonek Grown becomes a bustling hub for local students who gather to plant, water, and harvest a vibrant array of organic fruits and vegetables. This summer, Johnson Grows envisioned an ambitious plan—a community food forest incorporating Indigenous plants and fruit trees.
However, due to recent federal staff and funding cuts, these dreams now hang in the balance. Laurie Stuart, the Executive Director of the Tyonek Tribal Conservation District, expressed concern about the future of their programs. “The loss of those funds is going to have a big impact on the growth that we were building," says Stuart, indicating the pressing need to re-evaluate their strategies.
The Vulnerability of Alaska’s Food Supply
In Alaska, nearly 95% of produce is imported, leaving rural areas especially vulnerable. As documented by the USDA here, this lack of local production can have seismic effects on communities like Tyonek, where produce often has to be flown in.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), facing budget constraints and policy shifts, has recently laid off many staff members responsible for key support, leaving individuals like Amanda Compton, a USDA employee, and her team at a standstill. Compton emphasized, “We lost our entire team of people that are working to get Native communities greenhouses."
Disruptions Ripple Through the Community
Tyonek, situated just 40 miles southwest of Anchorage, presents a unique challenge: local produce is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Tyonek Grown’s efforts to provide affordable fresh food are essential, especially amidst economic uncertainties. Without sufficient funding, the community faces a stark reality where food sourcing becomes increasingly precarious.
The USDA Forest Service, through the Arbor Day Foundation, had originally awarded $900,000 to Tyonek in December to establish the food forest, a space envisioned to enhance community and cultural practices. Yet, amidst policy changes initiated under the previous administration, this grant was abruptly rescinded.
The Loss of Local Food Purchase Support
Another unfortunate casualty of budget cuts is the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program, which provided crucial financial support to schools and food banks for purchasing locally sourced produce. Cayley Eller, the programs manager at Tyonek Grown, laments, “In Tyonek, that meant that we were able to support our local farm operation and compensate the farm for food."
While Tyonek Grown operates on existing funds for the time being, the absence of grant support poses severe uncertainties for the future. Eller stated, “It’s a food security farm production space, and that means we’re not making a profit on our produce,” underscoring the importance of continued funding to feed their community.
The Greenlandic Perspective: Reindeer Herders in Distress
Far to the northwest, around Nome, reindeer herders are also reeling from funding cuts. Nathan Baring, the director of the Reindeer Herding Association, highlighted the struggles these herders face in securing grants critical for their operations and sustainable practices.
Bonnie Suaŋa Scheele, an Iñupiaq reindeer herder, articulated the struggles facing her community. The interruptions in federal programs leave outdoor projects, like building temporary housing for workers and animal corrals, in limbo. Despite these challenges, Scheele remains optimistic, asserting, “We’ll overcome it. We’ll figure it out.”
Conclusion: Navigating Through Adversity
As the Alaska Native communities navigate these turbulent waters, the call for support remains louder than ever. The path ahead may be filled with obstacles, but the resilience of these communities shines through their commitment to sustainable practices and local food production.
By supporting local farms like Tyonek Grown and advocating for necessary programs, we can help ensure that these communities are not just surviving but thriving, fostering a future where food security is no longer a worry but a certainty.
Sources:
- USDA’s role in supporting local food production
- Local Food Purchase Assistance Program
- Arbor Day Foundation Grants
