In 1971, Congress enacted the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. The act resolved the long-standing conflict over aboriginal land claims in Alaska. The act created 12 regional corporations and more than 200 village corporations. A 13th regional corporation was formed outside of Alaska. The settlement involved both land (45 million acres) and cash compensation ($962 million).
Huna Totem Corporation (HTC) was formed in 1973 and was entitled to 20,040 acres of land under ANCSA. The first land conveyance made from the Bureau of Land Management to HTC occurred in 1979.
On July 31, 2013, Russell Dick, Chairman, Ozzie Sheakley, Secretary, and Larry Gaffaney, and former Chief Executive Officer and President of HTC, met in Anchorage at the Bureau of Land Management for the signing ceremony of the final land conveyance of 2.85 acres, a grand total of 23,042.85 acres, thereby fulfilling the corporation’s Sec. 16(b) land entitlement under ANCSA.
After overcoming many challenges, Huna Totem Corporation’s entitlement under ANCSA has finally been met
Land Use Policy
Huna Totem Corporation HTC Land is open for personal use by shareholders. However:
- All activities should be conducted in a clean and safe manner.
- No buildings, structures, or improvements can be made without authorization by the HTC office.
- No trees, timber, or live vegetation shall be cut, damaged or removed.
Leaving a limited footprint on the land will ensure that the land is there for the next generation to enjoy.
Non-shareholders are not permitted to enter or hunt on HTC land without written permission by the HTC office.
Any commercial activity on HTC land requires a land use permit approved and issued by the HTC office. Questions in regards to commercial activity on HTC land should be directed to Amber Henderson, Director of Administration.
Pre-Commercial Thinning
Pre-commercial thinning improves the health and growth of young forests, creating important habitat benefits, including providing forage for deer. Siviculture programs on our land, like these, are consistent with one of HTC’s Guiding Principle: Maintain our land in perpetuity and Perpetuate our culture and land through prudent stewardship.