In this AK TRLN information session we explored how communities in the Copper River region are incorporating Ahtna values and community priorities into health assessments. Presenters shared the origins of the project, how the collaboration has evolved, and the frameworks used to understand the links between climate and health. They described a community-driven process that integrates Indigenous and non-Indigenous methods to develop a practical health assessment tool, with real-world examples of its use in climate adaptation discussions. This approach ensures that Indigenous values and priorities are central to decision-making about community health.
Presenters
Colleen Merrick - Copper River Native Association
Derrick Sinyon & Lishaw Lincoln - Native Village of Gakona
Micah Hahn - Institute of Circumpolar Health Studies, UAA