News from the Yakama Nation

News from the Yakama Nation

Laliik Elk Hunt 2023

The Yakama Nation notified the United States of its intent to engage in an elk hunt on the Hanford Arid Lands Ecology Reserve (Lalíik) within the Yakama Nation’s Treaty Territory, where access has been limited since the 1940’s due to the development and operation of the Hanford Nuclear Reservation. On December 20th and 27th, 2023, selected members of Yakama Nation Tribal Council and hunters were able to participate in the first hunt in over 70 years. Tribal Council authorized hunting in smaller groups to create a safe setting while also implementing protocols to protect the cultural resources on Lalíik. A full hunt plan for tribal membership is being discussed for next fall hunting season. Lalíik is sacred to all Yakama people, and re-establishing our connection to this land helps honor it.