Floating the Killik River for Caribou with Barry Whitehill

Brooks Range Stories LIVE Brings Wild Alaska to Fairbanks

On May 12, hunters, anglers, and conservationists gathered in Fairbanks at Black Spruce Brewing Co. for an unforgettable evening of storytelling, community, and public lands advocacy at Brooks Range Stories LIVE, hosted by the Alaska Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers.

May 12, 2026 Black Spruce Brewing Co.: Event space full of attendees for Barry Whitehill's talk, with more trickling in.

The event featured Alaska Chapter Board Member Barry Whitehill, who shared stories from decades of adventures in Alaska's wild country, including a memorable float down the Killik River in the western Brooks Range. Through personal experiences on the landscape, Barry highlighted what makes the Brooks Range one of North America's most remarkable hunting, fishing, and recreation destinations—and why maintaining access to these remote public lands matters to so many Alaskans.

The evening also provided an opportunity to discuss current conservation issues facing the region, including the proposed Ambler Road. Barry reflected on how industrial development could alter the character of the remote landscapes that draw hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning, public engagement, and balancing development with the protection of Alaska's fish, wildlife, and outdoor traditions.

Killik River, PC: Barry Whitehill

A highlight of the night was the raffle of a SOAR inflatable raft, generously donated to support Alaska BHA's conservation and stewardship work. Congratulations to the lucky winner, and thank you to everyone who purchased raffle tickets to help advance our mission of protecting public lands, waters, and wildlife.

Most importantly, the event brought together a room full of over 60 people who care deeply about Alaska's wild places. From stories of remote river floats and mountain hunts to conversations about the future of public access and conservation, Brooks Range Stories LIVE showcased the power of storytelling to connect people to the landscapes they cherish.

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, and helped make the evening a success. Events like these strengthen our community, elevate important conservation conversations, and ensure that the voices of hunters and anglers remain part of the discussion about the future of Alaska's public lands.

Left to Right: Jordan Koppellman & his daughter (AK AFI Liaison), Nate Kibbey AK BHA Vice Chair, Jason Young AK BHA Secretary,

Mary Glaves, BHA Alaska Program Manager, Barry Whitehill, AK BHA Board Emeritus and co-founder of AK Chapter.

 

Learn more about the Ambler Road Project and the Hunters & Anglers for the Brooks Range here: https://huntfishbrooksrange.com/