Applications Open for 2021 Kuskokwim Subsistence Salmon Fishery Disaster Relief Funds
Photo by Nora Kelila.
Applications are open for 2021 Kuskokwim Subsistence Salmon Fishery Disaster relief funds!
INFORMATION
WHAT: The Secretary of Commerce declared a disaster for 2021 Kuskokwim River subsistence salmon fisheries, and worked with the State of Alaska to allocate $568,322 for disaster relief to subsistence fishing households. Applications for relief funds are now available.
WHEN: Applications are due June 9, 2026 at 12pm (noon) Alaska time.
HOW: One application can be submitted per eligible Kuskokwim Area household, by an eligible applicant. Applications must be submitted online with a valid email address; no paper or faxed applications are being accepted. Multiple applications may be submitted using the same address (for example, if a Tribal office submits applications on behalf of residents), and each application will be given its own number.
Eligible households are households in the Kuskokwim River drainage that can attest to being negatively impacted by the 2021 fishery disaster, either directly or indirectly.
Eligible applicants must be:
Alaska residents in 2021, with verification from a (1) 2021 PFD, (2) 2021 resident sport fishing license, (3) 2021 resident status with the Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission (CFEC), or (4) 2021 subsistence permit for the Kuskokwim Area.
At least 18 years of age.
Allowed to receive federal funds.
NOT on the federal government’s “Do Not Pay” list.
Able to attest that at least one person in their household took part in subsistence fishing in the Kuskokwim Area in at least 2 years between 2017 and 2020.
Able to attest that their household was negatively affected in their ability to access subsistence salmon fishing because of the 2021 fishery disaster, either directly or indirectly.
Eligible applicants submit an application for their entire 2021 household, meaning for all those who were living in the household in 2021. If the 2021 household had more than 12 members, contact AKFishDisaster@psmfc.org.
Applications must be submitted at https://short.psmfc.org/subsistence2021salmon.
To apply, you will need:
Internet access.
A valid email address that you check regularly, or that can be checked on your behalf.
An account with the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (you can make a new one when you apply, or use an existing one from previous applications).
A phone number.
The full legal name, Social Security Number, and residency verification option for yourself and all members of your 2021 household.
To verify you and your household are eligible to receive these funds.
Additional information can be found at https://relief.psmfc.org/2021-norton-sound-and-kuskokwim-river-salmon/.
Questions & Answers
How much funding is dedicated for each household?
This depends on a) the number of accepted applications, and b) the sizes of the households. There are $568,322 available for qualifying subsistence households. Households with 1-3 members will get 1 share of the total, and households with 4+ members will get 2 shares. The size of each share will be determined by the number of successful applications submitted.
Do I have to apply online?
Yes. Paper, mailed, and faxed applications are not accepted this time, and may result in disqualification.
What if I don’t have an email address?
Someone else can use their email address to submit your application. Just make sure to keep in touch with them, and that they keep in touch with you, in case there are any issues with your application or amendments to be made. Make sure the spam folder is checked!
When are applications due?
Applications are due online by 12pm (noon) on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
What if there is an error with my application?
A representative from the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission will reach out via email correct it with you.
I submitted my application. Now what?
You will receive a confirmation email with a result number once your application is successfully submitted. If not, check your spam folder, ensure your email was entered correctly, and ensure your application was fully submitted. You will only be contacted if there is an issue with your application. If you are not contacted, no further action is required.
When will funds be dispersed?
TBD. This depends on how many applications are received and how many errors need to be corrected. It may be a year or more before funds are dispersed.
Additional questions can be directed to:
ADF&G
Email: dfg.com.fisheriesdisasters@alaska.gov
Phone: (907) 267-2593
PSMFC
Email: AKFishDisaster@psmfc.org
Phone: (888) 517-7262
Note: Email is the fastest way to reach help and is best for clear communication. Representatives will also respond to phone inquiries in the order received.
You can also reach out to our office at 907-545-7388 or info@kritfc.org for additional support.
KRITFC encourages all eligible households to apply for these disaster relief funds.