What is the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge?

The Izembek National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Alaska that is home to sensitive habitats and migratory birds relied on by local Indigenous communities for food.

Why are Alaskan tribes suing the federal government?

Alaskan Native tribes are suing the federal government to try to overturn a land exchange agreement that would allow a road to be built through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, which they say poses risks to the refuge's ecosystems and the migratory birds they depend on.

What is the proposed road in King Cove, Alaska?

The proposed road would connect the community of King Cove to the Cold Bay airport, about 18 miles away, which supporters say would improve access for emergency medical evacuations. However, critics argue the road would have devastating impacts on the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge.

Home / Environment / Alaskan Tribes and Conservation Groups Sue to Block Land Exchange for Road

Alaskan Tribes and Conservation Groups Sue to Block Land Exchange for Road

13 Nov

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Summary

Tribes and groups file lawsuits to stop land exchange for road through Izembek National Wildlife Refuge
Proposed road would connect King Cove to Cold Bay airport, but poses risks to sensitive habitats
Tribes say road could threaten migratory birds they rely on for food

Alaskan Tribes and Conservation Groups Sue to Block Land Exchange for Road

On November 13, 2025, Alaskan Native tribes and conservation groups filed several lawsuits against the federal government, seeking to overturn a land exchange agreement that would enable the construction of a road through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge.

The legal challenges claim the land exchange was not properly analyzed, poses risks to sensitive habitats, and could threaten migratory birds that some Alaska Natives rely on for food. The agreement, reached last month between Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and an Alaska Native village corporation, would convey about 490 acres to King Cove Corporation for a potential road corridor, while the corporation would give the refuge about 1,739 acres.