Nalaquq UAV Salmon Counts
Using Yup’ik knowledge to monitor salmon runs on local rivers
Local Yup’ik technicians are trained to use Unpiloted Aerial Systems (drones) to conduct comprehensive salmon counts on local rivers. The data will provide insight on salmon numbers, species, and spawning behavior in areas used for commercial and subsistence fishing.
The work is led by Nalaquq, LLC, a subsidiary of Qanirtuuq Incorporated, an Alaska Native-owned ANCSA 14(h) corporation based in Quinhagak. The organization creates community-driven solutions that integrate Indigenous knowledge across co-production research, community-based training, cultural resource management, and remote sensing.
Local technicians use a drone to document salmon runs near the community of Quinhagak. Photo courtesy of Nalaquq.