Goodnews Bay, known to our People as Mamterat, has been home to the Central Yup’ik people for countless generations. Guided by the Traditional Village Council, our tribe continues to uphold the values of yuuyaraq,  “the way of life”, living in balance with the land, rivers, and seas.

Our history is one of resilience and continuity. From the first census records of the late 1800s to the platinum mining era of the 20th century, Mamterat has endured while remaining rooted in tradition. Today, families continue to fish the salmon-rich Goodnews River, hunt moose and caribou, gather berries, and pass down the Yup’ik language, stories, and cultural teachings.

The Traditional Village Council governs on behalf of the people of Goodnews Bay, ensuring programs and services reflect our values of respect, sharing, stewardship, and community. As a federally recognized Tribe, we also work with partners such as the Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) and Calista Corporation to expand opportunities for our members.

We are proud of our language, Yugtun, and the wisdom of our Elders who guide us in honoring our ancestral lands and traditions. Through their teachings, we support our youth, protect our environment, and preserve our people’s identity for generations to come.