Kodiak Brown Bear Trust, AK

In 2001, the National Park Trust extended a loan of $10,000 to the Kodiak Brown Bear Trust. It allowed the Trust to cover operating expenses and salaries for a project to acquire land that is important to the protection and conservation of salmon, marine mammals, and iconic species such as the Kodiak brown bear on Afognak Island.

Kodiak and Afognak Islands are some of the largest islands in the United States. All five species of Pacific salmon are found there, supporting a healthy population of salmon-feeding wildlife. A distinct species of brown bear, the Kodiak brown bear, thrives on these islands since a large part of the land is protected as a national wildlife refuge and a state park. The refuge is inaccessible by road, further protecting its wildness. At least 247 species of birds have been seen on the islands, and winter bird counts are some of the highest in Alaska.

The mission of the Kodiak Brown Bear Trust since its founding in 1981 is to support the conservation of Kodiak brown bears and protect their wilderness habitat. They fund research, management, habitat protection, and educational outreach.

Project Details:

Project Years: 2001 – 2004

Project Cost: $10,000

Long Term Significance:

• Acquired properties enhanced the protection of wildlife populations on the coast of Afognak Island, in the Kodiak Archipelago.
• The Kodiak Brown Bear Trust was able to continue operation and obtain funding that allowed repayment of the loan and continued conservation operations.

Value to the Public:

• Protection of the animals and habitat allowed the public to continue to experience the Alaskan islands in their natural state, with continued diversity of wildlife.