Kotzebue’s Cyrus Harris Honored: Preserving Alaska’s Legacy

Alaska hikers, are you ready to delve deeper into the heart of our state’s wild spaces and the stories woven within them?

Cyrus Naungaq Harris, a respected elder and community leader from Kotzebue, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Eileen Devinny Award by the Western Arctic National Parklands, recognizing his decades of dedication to preserving traditional knowledge and supporting subsistence practices in Kobuk Valley, Cape Krusenstern, and Noatak National Parks. This honor, named after former NPS anthropologist Eileen Devinney, celebrates individuals who champion the continuation of cultural heritage and contribute significantly to the understanding of Alaska’s unique ecosystems. Harris’s work spans numerous roles, including serving on the Cape Krusenstern Subsistence Resource Commission, collaborating with the NPS through the Maniilaq Hunter Support Program, and sharing his invaluable insights with park staff through oral history projects.

Why This Matters for Alaska Hikers

As Alaska outdoor enthusiasts, we often seek solitude and connection with the land. But understanding the deep roots of this landscape – the subsistence traditions of Alaska Native communities – is crucial to truly appreciating its beauty and respecting its resources. Cyrus Harris’s work directly impacts how we experience trails like those in the Brooks Range, or the coastal routes around Cape Krusenstern. His dedication mirrors the importance of responsible backcountry travel, acknowledging the impact we have on fragile ecosystems and honoring the rights of those who have stewarded these lands for generations. Just as a seasoned hiker knows the subtle signs of a changing weather pattern on the Chugach Mountains, Harris’s knowledge of the land and its cycles is invaluable. Similarly, understanding the history of land use – from traditional hunting and fishing practices to military operations impacting areas like the Eagle River Nature Center – adds a vital layer to any Alaskan adventure.

Practical Guidance for the Trail

Before venturing into the vastness of Alaska, remember that preparation is paramount. Always check weather forecasts – conditions in the Arctic can change dramatically in minutes. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, especially when hiking near rivers like the Kenai or exploring the tundra around Denali. Obtain necessary permits for backcountry camping and fishing, and familiarize yourself with local regulations. Respect the land and its inhabitants – practice Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of the impact your presence has. Consider accessing remote areas via bush plane, understanding the logistical challenges and potential for limited support. And if you’re planning a trip during the aurora season, be aware of the long daylight hours and the increased risk of disorientation.

Alaska Context

Alaska’s landscape is shaped by millennia of Native subsistence traditions, deeply intertwined with the land and its resources. The NPS recognizes and supports these practices, acknowledging the rights and responsibilities of Alaska Native communities in managing their ancestral territories. Furthermore, the presence of military land – like portions of Fort Wainwright near Anchorage – adds another layer of complexity to land use and access, requiring careful navigation and respect for established boundaries.

Cyrus Harris’s commitment to sharing his knowledge and preserving his culture is a powerful reminder that Alaska’s greatest treasures are not just its mountains and glaciers, but the stories and traditions of the people who call it home. Let’s all strive to be mindful explorers, honoring the land and its legacy as we continue to discover the wonders of Alaska’s wild places.