We're excited to share that Alannah Acaq Hurley, Executive Director of United Tribes of Bristol Bay (UTBB), has been named the 2026 North American recipient of the Goldman Environmental Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious environmental awards. This prize recognizes grassroots leaders whose work has shaped the future of their communities and regions. For over a decade, Alannah has done just that.

Alannah is Yup'ik, born and raised in Bristol Bay, and has fished its waters her whole life. In 2013, she was selected by local Tribal leaders to serve as Executive Director of UTBB, a consortium of 14 federally recognized Tribes working to protect the region's waters, salmon and the Yup'ik, Dena'ina and Alutiiq communities that are sustained by them.

This work has taken her from her village of Clark’s Point on Nushagak Bay, to the halls of Congress, to introducing the President of the United States in the White House Rose Garden. Through it all, Alannah worked for the Tribes, implementing strategies that put their sovereignty first. Advised by renowned Tribal Rights attorney Heather Kendall Miller of the Native American Rights Fund, UTBB worked to protect salmon in the courts, governmental agencies and in the public sphere. 

The historic EPA Clean Water Act determination vetoing the Pebble Mine in 2023 was the culmination of more than a decade of organizing, community testimony and coalition-building. UTBB and its supporters continue to work toward permanent, region-wide protections and strong, sustainable communities.

“Alannah is a fearless and tireless advocate for her people and home region, and she does so with such deep humility and care,” says AVF Managing Partner Erin Dovichin. “What she understands, and what makes the work of the United Tribes of Bristol Bay so powerful, is that it isn’t one person’s vision. It’s driven by unified Tribal leaders and the vision of Bristol Bay’s people. Alannah has dedicated herself to fighting for their priorities. We are honored to be in partnership with her.”

You can read more about UTBB’s work here.

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