Understanding subsistence use and identity construction in communities surrounding Denali National Park and Preserve

Effective management of subsistence use in Alaska includes sustaining wildlife species and preserving the cultural activities that link communities to their environments. However, managing subsistence use is complex and requires a comprehensive understanding of subsistence users' identities, cultural traditions, and motivations. The presentation describes the research program funded by the NPS Subsistence Advisory Council that is intended to improve management of subsistence activities on federally managed lands. Specifically, the research team uses in-depth semistructured interviews, through a phenomenological approach, to explore the identity formation of subsistence users in designated subsistence communities surrounding Denali National Park and Preserve. The results increase our understanding of subsistence use and identity formation in an NPS setting and aim to improve the quality of communication between managers and subsistence users. Recommendations for continued research are described.