07/31/2026
Learning, Culture & Community in Seward! 🌿🌊
In June, CRRC’s Education and Outreach team had the opportunity to host interns from the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies’ Community Coastal Experience in Seward. Over three days, interns spent time with the Qutekcak Native Tribe, CRRC, and the Alutiiq Pride Marine Institute (APMI), learning about our region, traditional knowledge, and the work being done to support our communities.
Day One: Interns met with CRRC and Qutekcak Native Tribe staff at the Tribal office, where they learned about the history of Seward and CRRC’s important role in serving the Chugach region. They were introduced to the tradition of formally introducing themselves and learned about Native Youth Olympics, with the opportunity to try out each event. The day wrapped up with a plant walk, where they learned about traditional plants found in the area and their many uses.
Day Two: The group traveled to Kayaker’s Cove, where interns learned about traditional waterproof stitching, its history and uses, and had the opportunity to try the technique themselves.
Day Three: Interns toured APMI and learned about the important work happening at the marine institute. They practiced taking ocean samples and participated in a community project where they learned about hydroponics, helped harvest produce, built garden beds for the Qutekcak Native Tribe, and explored the importance of composting. The day ended with a hands-on beading activity, where interns learned how to make beautiful beaded suncatchers.
A Special Thank You to the CORaL Network! 💙
We are incredibly grateful to the CORaL Network for their generous support of this opportunity, which helped make it possible for us to share traditional knowledge, culture, and hands-on learning with the next generation of coastal stewards.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies for inviting us to be part of this experience and for creating an opportunity for CRRC, the Qutekcak Native Tribe, and APMI to share the work we do in our communities.
We loved sharing, learning, and connecting with the next generation of coastal stewards! 🌿🌊
