Dear Friends of the Northern Center,
We are writing to share an update on NAEC’s work and governance as we move into the new year.
A central focus of NAEC’s work is advancing partnerships that support conservation and community-led stewardship. NAEC works in partnership with Defend the Brooks Range (DBR), a coalition opposing the Ambler Road and advocating for the protection of subsistence resources, wildlife, and clean water. This work is led by Tribes and rural communities and supported by a broad network of partners.
In 2026, this partnership will focus on advancing legal and policy challenges to the Ambler Road, strengthening Tribal and community coordination, and supporting communications and rapid-response efforts to ensure subsistence, wildlife, and clean water remain protected.
Partner support in 2026 enables DBR to advance work in the following areas: |
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Litigation & Legal Defense
Challenging unlawful permits, enforcing environmental protections, and holding agencies accountable for decisions that threaten subsistence resources, wildlife, and clean water. - Communications & Public Education
Supporting media outreach, digital campaigns, and storytelling that elevate Tribal and rural voices and accurately convey the impacts of the Ambler Road. - Tribal & Community Partnerships
Working alongside Alaska Native Tribes and rural residents to ensure local leadership, Traditional Knowledge, and lived experience guide advocacy and decision-making. - Policy Advocacy & Government Accountability
Providing policy analysis, public comments, and direct advocacy to defend science-based land management and prevent irresponsible industrial development. - Rapid Response & Campaign Infrastructure
Maintaining the capacity to respond quickly to emerging threats, including legal filings, travel, organizing, and communications. - Storytelling, Media & Cultural Campaigns
Producing films, photography, and cultural projects that connect people to the Brooks Range and build long-term public understanding and support.
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Members and supporters who wish to contribute financially to this work may do so through NAEC, directing support where it is most needed! |
Partnerships That Strengthen Our Work |
NAEC’s work is strengthened by collaboration with many partners across Alaska. We are grateful to work alongside Save Our Domes and Protect the Kobuk in defending public lands and waters; the Jim Kowalski Youth Fund, which supports youth access to the outdoors through Camp Habitat and related programs, the Arctic Underground Sound Project, which connects art, sound, and conservation to deepen public engagement with northern landscapes; and the Fairbanks Climate Action Coalition, which advances local climate advocacy and community-driven solutions.
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Board Recruitment & Next Board Meeting |
As part of NAEC’s ongoing organizational renewal, we are expanding our Board of Directors. We heard clearly from members about the importance of a well-resourced, durable Board, and we are now in a position to add two additional Board members.
We are seeking individuals who bring experience in one or more of the following areas: |
- Fundraising and donor engagement
- Nonprofit or organizational financial management
- Business management and organizational development
- Legal expertise
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Local, state, or national legislative and policy processes
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Above all, we seek individuals committed to conservation, accountability, respectful Tribal engagement, and community-driven leadership informed by Traditional Knowledge and lived experience in Interior and Northern Alaska.
Letters of Intent to serve on the NAEC Board are due by January 12, 2026.
Board candidates will be reviewed and considered at the January 17, 2026 Board meeting at 4:00 PM. You can email your letter of intent to president@northern.org. |
No Time to Serve on the Board? Become a Committee Member! |
NAEC welcomes member involvement through Board committee service. Committees support governance, finance, fundraising, and strategic initiatives. Active membership is required, and Letters of Intent are accepted on a rolling basis and can be sent to president@northern.org |
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Issues Committee – Guides NAEC’s policy priorities and advocacy positions on conservation, land management, and environmental issues affecting Interior and Northern Alaska.
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Governance Committee – Advises the Board and organizational structure, bylaws, & policies to ensure strong, transparent, and accountable leadership.
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Elders Committee – Provides historical guidance, historical perspective, and Traditional Knowledge to inform NAEC’s work and decision-making.
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Facilities Committee – Oversees stewardship, maintenance, and strategic use of NAEC’s facilities and physical assets.
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Financial Committee – Provides financial oversight, budgeting guidance, and fiscal planning to support NAEC’s long-term sustainability.
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With appreciation,
Krystal Lapp, Jeffery Groenke, and David Leslie NAEC Board of Directors |
NAEC has posted several Requests for Proposals for contractors to support key work in 2026. Open opportunities include Coalition and Policy Support, Media and Communications, Bookkeeping and Financial Operations, and Grant Writing, Donor Engagement & Philanthropic Partnerships. Full RFP details and submission information can be found on our website at:
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MISSION The Northern Alaska Environmental Center promotes conservation of the environment and sustainable resource stewardship in Interior and Arctic Alaska through education and advocacy. |
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