After a historic land buyback by the US Forest Service, Tlingit crew members are demolishing culverts to restore streams, salmon runs, and cultural history deep in the Tongass National Forest. The morning begins with anticipation – 1,200lbs of explosives detonate a stream culvert buried 10ft in Alaska’s Tongass national forest. The crew, led by Jamie Daniels, embarks on a journey of restoration, reconnecting with their ancestral lands. Cube Cove, a 22,000-acre addition to the Kootznoowoo wilderness on Admiralty Island, is a sacred place for the Tlingit people. The wilderness is home to brown bears, rich marine life, and a unique rainforest ecosystem. The Tlingit crew, including Jamie Daniels, Justin, Roger Williams, and Walt Washington, is committed to undoing decades of ecological damage.
The crew removes culverts left by loggers, clears streambeds, and restores vital habitats. The project, known as Cube Cove, marks a significant effort to counter the impact of past clearcutting practices. Their work aims not only at ecological restoration but also at honoring ancestral knowledge and sustaining cultural practices. Despite challenges, including renewed logging efforts in the Tongass, the crew remains dedicated to preserving the forest’s integrity and ensuring its long-term health. As the day ends with a bonfire on the beach, the team reflects on the importance of their work for future generations.