Birch bark texture.

Ahtna Kanas Winter 2016

Ahtna Board Member Named to Board of Game

Karen Linnell smiling, looking to her right

Gov. Bill Walker appointed Ahtna Board member Karen Linnell of Glennallen to serve on the Alaska Board of Game. Karen is a long-time resident of the Copper River basin.

A lifelong subsistence hunter and fisher, Karen has over a decade of experience working on fish and game management issues in our region. She is the executive director of the Copper River-Ahtna Inter-Tribal Resource Conservation District and chair of the Wrangell-St. Elias Subsistence Resource Commission. Additionally, she has served on the Copper River Basin Fish and Game Advisory Committee for more than eight years.

“Management of our state’s wildlife resources impacts thousands of Alaskans,” said Walker. “Karen’s experience working in the Copper River basin has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities in Alaska’s dual management system. Her background will prove to be an asset to the Board of Game and the State of Alaska.”

Walker noted Karen’s experience working on state, federal and tribal boards gives her a unique perspective on issues related to wildlife management.

“It is important that any governing body understand different perspectives and how that relates to the work before them,” Walker said. “Given her past work with many different interest groups, I am confident that Karen’s insights will be of great benefit and build on the sound dynamic of the existing Board.”

The Alaska Board of Game consists of seven members serving three-year terms. Members are appointed by the governor and require confirmation by the Alaska Legislature.