Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
**Mark items that are new in this issue.
What’s UpAugust 13, 2010 Compiled Weekly by Peg TilestonOn behalf of the Alaska Women’s Environmental Network (AWEN), Alaska Center for the Environment (ACE), and Alaska Conservation Alliance (ACA)
WORKSHOPS, SEMINARS, TRAINING, WEBINARS, WEBCASTS, STATEWIDE EVENTS & TELECONFERENCES
August 16 - 20 NORTH PACIFIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL will meet at the Captain Cook Hotel. For complete agenda go to http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/npfmc/Agendas/810Agenda.pdf.
August 19 (TELECONFERENCE)Public meeting on the draft FALL 2010 AMENDMENT to the ALASKA COASTAL IMPACT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM PLAN will be held from 10 to 11am. To participate, call 1-800-315-6338. The code is 2427#. The Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Act) established the Coastal Impact Assistance Program (CIAP) to provide funds to the six Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil and gas producing states to mitigate the impacts of OCS oil and gas activities. The State of Alaska is allocated a total of $79,407,444.96 in CIAP funds. Per the Act, 65% ($51,614,839.22) is allocated directly to the State of Alaska and 35% ($27,792,605.74) is allocated directly to the state’s eight eligible Coastal Political Subdivisions (CPSs). In order for the state and the CPSs to receive the CIAP monies, the state must develop and receive approval from the Federal Department of Interior, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation, and Enforcement (BOEMRE-formerly Minerals Management Service) for a state specific CIAP Plan. The Department of Natural Resources, Division of Coastal and Ocean Management (DCOM), the state’s lead agency for CIAP, developed and received approval of a 2008 Alaska CIAP Plan and a March 2010 Amendment to the plan which accounted for a portion of the total CIAP monies allocated to the State of Alaska. DCOM has prepared a Fall 2010 Amendment to the Alaska CIAP Plan, Public Review Draft that accounts for the remaining CIAP funds. It, and the previously approved Alaska CIAP Plan and amendment can be viewed at http://dnr.alaska.gov/coastal/CIAP/ciap.htm. The public is invited to participate in a public meeting on the Fall 2010 Amendment to the Alaska CIAP Plan, Public Review Draft, and to comment on the amendment before it is finalized and submitted to BOEMRE. For more information or to submit written comments, contact Ms. Sylvia Kreel, Alaska CIAP Project Coordinator, (907) 465-3177, Fax (907)- 465-3075, or email [email protected].
August 20 - 22FAIRBANKS - TANANA VALLEY SANDHILL CRANE FESTIVAL - Join Friends of Creamer’s Field for this celebration of fall migration! During the festival, see thousands of cranes as they eat and socialize in preparation for their long flight south. This year’s KEYNOTE SPEAKER WILL BE PAUL JOHNSGARD, celebrated ornithologist, author and artist. The weekend’s festivities include an outdoor slideshow on the historic Creamer’s Dairy barns, Brunch with the Cranes, nature walks, kids crafts and walks, drawing and photography workshops, a crane calling contest, a live birds of prey program and of course crane watching! For more information call (907) 452-5162 or visit www.creamersfield.org.
August 24 & 26 (Teleconference)EPA will hold listening sessions on POTENTIAL REVISIONS TO WATER QUALITY STANDARDS REGULATION , from 1 to 2:30 pm EDT (9 to 10:30 Alaska time). The current
regulation, which has been in place since 1983, governs how states and authorized tribes adopt standards needed under the Clean Water Act to protect the quality of their rivers, streams, lakes, and estuaries. Potential revisions include strengthening protection for water bodies with water quality that already exceeds or meet the interim goals of the Clean Water Act; ensuring that standards reflect a continued commitment to these goals wherever attainable; improving transparency of regulatory decisions; and strengthening federal oversight. Water quality standards are the foundation of the water quality-based approach to pollution control, including Total Maximum Daily Loads and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits. Standards are also a fundamental component of watershed management. At the sessions, EPA will provide a review of the current regulation and a summary of the revisions the agency is considering. Clarifying questions and brief oral comments (three minutes or less) from the public will be accepted at the sessions, as time permits. EPA will consider the comments received as it develops the proposed rulemaking. More information, go to: http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/standards/rules/wqs/.
August 30 - September 3JUNEAU - 2010 EPA REGION 10 TRIBAL LEADERS SUMMIT will be held in Centennial Hall. The theme of the Summit is WORKING to PROTECT OUR RESOURCES for FUTURE GENERATIONS. Agenda is available at http://www.ccthita.org/docs/TLSDraft_Agenda_6.25.10.doc. Registration, travel and accommodation information is available at http://www.ccthita.org/2010TLS.html. For more information, contact Leilani Knight-McQueen or Desiree Duncan, CCTHITA Native Lands and Resources Department, at 1-800-344-1432 ext 7713 for Leilani and ext 7183 for Desiree or email [email protected] or [email protected].
GRANTS & AWARDS
August 20Deadline for application for a WESTERN WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE GRANT that may be used to apply for financial assistance towards hazardous fuels and educational projects within the four goals of: improved prevention, reduction of hazardous fuels, restoration of fire-adapted ecosystems and promotion of community assistance. For application, criteria and instructions visit Forestry's web site at:http://forestry.alaska.gov/fire/cwpp/wuigrants.htm
September 9 (Deadline Change)Deadline for applications for the 2011 COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENTAL DEMONSTRATIONPROJECT GRANT. The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium and the Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP) invite you to apply for the 2011 Community Environmental Demonstration Project grant. We anticipate 10-12 awards ranging from $5,000.00 to $30,000.00. These grants are made possible with funding from the US Environmental Protection Agency under theAlaska Tribal Multi-Media Demonstration Projects. For more information please visit www.ruralcap.com or www.anthc.org/chs/ces/hve/index.cfm.
November 1Deadline for applications for MARINE DEBRIS REMOVAL PROGRAM GRANTS. This funding supports locally driven, community-based marine debris removal projects that benefit coastal habitat, waterways, and wildlife including migratory fish. Proposed projects should have strong on-the-ground habitat components involving the removal of marine debris and derelict fishing gear, as well as activities that provide social benefits for people and their communities and long-term ecological habitat improvements. To learn more, go to http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103579321475&s=120&e=001JwsyWV4weOwbEDVRBQV-uFtCl-
6z_4umzx2RUEL9afnK1Hsl_twXZiWXEAfJHslItIPT-_hXbsqwJ-be-iHxn-zTiF6By0AMowl_0fpp9IcO8OuYxui0zP7tMZ74ayLKGpIPPIUNTrw_0KdJkVrAww==.
November 17Deadline for applications for the OPEN RIVERS INITIATIVE. Through this program, the NOAA Restoration Center provides technical expertise and financial assistance to remove dams and barriers and restore habitat for the many species that migrate between the ocean and the nation's freshwater rivers and streams. Proposed projects should directly benefit migratory species such as salmon, sturgeon, shad, river herring, striped bass, and American eel. They should also improve community vitality and public safety and encourage economic growth. To learn more, http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103579321475&s=120&e=001JwsyWV4weOzjQo5CrquwtmSDHY6JrY_kdQpvPN_z296wrJT21aCnibmRRtQIz3cGQ4qFKfsbmf7AjRptodgbaChrpTvzURMGfRu7bNN7-QZX88CzT8pQUG2aMQRsx22gUmxePt_4jaw=.
DEADLINES
August 16Deadline for comments on the INTEGRATED HERRING RESTORATION PROGRAM (IHRP) The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council is seeking public comment on its). For copies of the IHRP, to comment on, or for more information call (800) 478-7745 or on the web at www.evostc.state.ak.us.
August 16DUTCH HARBOR - Comments are due on the proposal to renew an AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT to the WESTWARD DUTCH HARBOR SEAFOOD PROCESSING FACILITY and AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING to the ALYESKA SEAFOODS, INC. for the UNALASKA SEAFOOD PROCESSING FACILITY. The significant emission units are the three oil fired diesel engine driven electric generators, and two oil fired boilers. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 26 tons of Particulate Matter, 594 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 114 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 64 tons of Carbon Monoxide, and 32 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total is 830 tons per year for the Westward Dutch Harbor Seafood Processing facility. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 6.6 tons of Particulate Matter, 292 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 21.2 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 89.2 tons of Carbon Monoxide, 10.4 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds, and 0.2 tons of Hazardous Air Pollutants. The total is 419.6 tons per year for the Alyeska Seafoods, Inc. The draft Operating Permits and Statements of Basis are is available at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm.For more information or to submit comments, contact Ms. Debra Dalcher at 907-269-7562 or email [email protected].
August 16Deadline for comments on the INTEGRATED HERRING RESTORATION PLAN. The document is available at http://www.evostc.state.ak.us/Universal/Documents/Publications/IHRP%20DRAFT%20-%20July%202010.pdf.
August 17FAIRBANKS - Deadline for comments on the DRAFT 2011 – 2012 UNIFIED PLANNING WORK PROGRAM (UPWP) that identifies all Fairbanks Metropolitan Area Transportation System (FMATS) transportation planning, air quality planning, and programming activities. It specifies which tasks will be done with financial support from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The purpose of the document is two-fold. First, it is a management tool that identifies the nature, timeline, staffing needs, cost, and funding
sources of all the planning activities of FMATS during federal fiscal year 2011 and 2012. Second, it fulfills the planning requirements of the national surface transportation law and regulations, including the Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act – A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). The draft is available at http://www.fmats.alaska.gov/files/upwp-public-review-2011-2012.pdf. To submit comments, go to http://dot.state.ak.us/nreg/planning/fmats/email_form.shtml.
August 19ANCHOR POINT - Comments are due on the proposal to construct the NORTH FORK TO ANCHOR POINT PIPELINE that would begin at the North Fork Production Pad located approximately 8.6 miles east of Anchor Point and would terminate in Anchor Point.. Anchor Point Energy (APE) proposes to construct and operate a dual 7.4 mile long natural gas pipeline. The proposed route crosses approximately 6.6 miles of state land. The applicant has requested a temporary 50-foot wide right-of-way for construction, 25-feet on either side of the right-of-way centerline. The construction right-of-way on state owned/managed lands would contain approximately 40.31 acres. The permanent operational right-of-way would be reduced to 20 feet in width, with 10 feet on either side of the right-of-way centerline. The operations right-of-way would contain approximately 16.10 acres. The pipeline route is located entirely within the drainage basin for the Anchor River and one of its main tributaries, the North Fork River. The pipeline route would cross five stream channels including the North Fork River near its mouth and various tributaries of the North Fork River and Anchor River. The North Fork is a single channel river and the riparian management area (measured from the outermost extent of the ordinary high water mark) is 100 feet on either side of the waterbody. The North Fork would be crossed via 400 ft of horizontal directional drilling (HDD); the HDD would provide at least a 100 ft buffer on both sides of the river. A complete copy of the project packet is available for review and copying at ftp://ftp.dnr.state.ak.us/dcom/APE_NorthFork_to_AnchorPt_Pipeline/. For more information or to submit comments, contact Jodi Delgado-Plikat, Project Review Coordinator, at 907-269-7472, Fax 907-269-3981, or email [email protected] or go to http://www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us/.
August 20HAINES - Comments are due on the proposal to renew an AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT to the HAINES POWER GENERATING STATION. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 410 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 115 tons of Carbon Monoxide, 14 tons of Particulate Matter, 69 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, and 12 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total emissions of regulated air pollutants is 620 tons per year. The draft Operating Permit and Statement of Basis are also available at the Department’s website at: http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or submit comments, contact Ms. Debra Dalcher at 907-269-7562 or email [email protected].
August 20Deadline for comments for the proposal to renew AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT to the VALDEZ DIESEL PLANT. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 20 tons of Particulate Matter, 1127 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 246 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 261 tons of Carbon Monoxide, and 27 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total emissions of regulated air pollutants is 1681 tons per year. The draft Operating Permit and Statement of Basis are available at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or to submit comments, contact Ms. Debra Dalcher at 907-269-7562 or email [email protected].
**August 20 (Extended to August 27)Deadline for application submission for LEADERSHIP ANCHORAGE for the 2010-2011 online. Go to http://www.akhf.org/programs/leadership/leadership_applications.html for the application, session schedule, and program frequently asked questions. As applications are received, interviews will be scheduled. The program year begins with an overnight retreat in late September. Leadership Anchorage is
a nationally recognized, rigorous program for adults. Leadership Anchorage is designed to introduce the "emerging leaders" of non-profit, neighborhood, and ethnic organizations to accomplished professionals and civic leaders in Anchorage and Alaska. Our goal is to make sure these emerging voices are heard and are at the table in the mix of Anchorage decision-making. After 13 years, more than 240 graduates, and recognition as one of the top civic leadership programs in the country, the program continues to grow and expand its reach. Over nine months, program participants experience a two-day retreat and nine rigorous, full-day sessions (mostly on Saturdays). These sessions include speaker presentations from established leaders in the community, readings in the humanities and on leadership as well as group dynamic learning exercises designed to facilitate the development of critical leadership skill sets. The cornerstones of LA's curriculum are a one-on-one mentor ship program, and a community service group project. The goal: more effective community leadership with a wider and more diverse network of connections. For further information, contact Jim MacKenzie at 907-272-5324, Cell: 907-575-8755, Fax: 907-272-3979, [email protected] or go to http://www.akhf.org/programs/leadership/leadership_main.html & http://www.akhistorycourse.org/
August 21Comments are due on the DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA) for a proposal to PURCHASE SIX PRIVATE PARCELS (approximately 1.5 acres) NEAR THE NORTH END OF THE LAKE HOOD AIR STRIP at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.. Each parcel contains a duplex structure which consists of two separate residences. Purchase of this property would rectify the issues of residential dwellings within the RPZ of runway 13-31. The EA describes the alternatives considered and evaluates the probable economic, social, and environmental effects of the proposed project and its consistency with the goals of the affected area’s land use and planning objectives. Interested individuals who may have a concern about the project may request a public hearing. The draft EA is available at: http://dot.alaska.gov/creg/lakehood/. For more information Wolfgang Junge, P.E., Project Manager at (907) 269-0608 or email [email protected]. To submit comments, contact Brian Elliott, Environmental Manager, ADOT&PF, P.O. Box 196900, Anchorage, AK 99519-6900.
**August 24KENAI - Deadline for comments on the proposal to CONSTRUCT AND OPERATE A NEW UNDERGROUND NATURAL GAS STORAGE FACILITY. The proposal would convert a depleted natural gas pool into an open-access natural gas storage reservoir and facility, receiving gas from and delivering it to a connection with the existing Marathon Oil Company Kenai Nikiski Pipeline (KNPL). The proposed project would improve gas deliverability to consumers and include the following major components: • A gas storage reservoir (Cannery Loop – Sterling C Gas Pool); • Five injection/withdrawal wells on a 5.9-acre well pad; • A subsurface pipeline easement connecting the injection/withdrawal wells to the gas storage reservoir; • A 7.5-acre compression/gas conditioning facility; • A buried 16-inch gathering header pipeline between the well pad and the compression/gas conditioning facility; and• A buried 20-inch pipeline connecting the facility to KNPL. For more information or to submit a comment, contact Ed Fogels at 907-269-8423, Fax 907-269-8918, or email [email protected].
**August 25Deadline for comments on proposal to establish a PUBLIC RECREATION EASEMENT on the JIM LAKE OVERLOOK TRAIL under the KNIK RIVER PUBLIC USE AREA (KRPUA) MANAGEMENT PLAN at a location near the terminus of the Maud Road Extension and in the vicinity of Jim Lake. This proposed easement is for the purpose of developing and reserving a non-motorized recreational trail leading from a point along the Maud Road Extension to a point atop of small bluff overlooking Jim Lake. At present an unauthorized user created trail leads to the overlook, but the condition of the trail is degraded, and the grades are steep. This proposed easement will reserve the trail for non-motorized uses, authorize trail reconstruction/restoration, and allow for routine maintenance of
trail attributes. For more information or to submit comments, contact David Griffin at 907-269-8546, Fax 907-269-8913 or email [email protected].
**August 25Deadline for comments and/or requests for public hearing on the Environmental Assessment (EA) for a proposal to PURCHASE SIX PRIVATE PARCELS (approximately 1.5 acres) NEAR the NORTH END of the LAKE HOOD AIR STRIP. Each parcel contains a duplex structure which consists of two separate residences. Purchase of this property would rectify the issues of residential dwellings with in the Runway Protection Zone of runway 13-21. The EA describes the alternatives considered and evaluates the probable economic, social, and environmental effects of the proposed project. The draft EA is available at http://dot.alaska.gov/creg/lakehood. For more information, contact Mark Boydston at [email protected]. Submit comments or requests for a public hearing to Brian Elliot, Environmental Manager, ADOT&PF, PO Box 196900, Anchorage AK 99519-6900.
**August 26KUPARUK - Comments are due on the proposed amendments and additions to the KUPARUK RUNWAY UPGRADE PROJECT MODIFICATION requested by ConocoPhillips Alaska (CPAI). A complete copy of the project packet is available at ftp://ftp.dnr.state.ak.us/dcom/ConocoPhillips_KuparukRunwayUpgrades_Mod/. For more information or to submit comments, contact Jodi Delgado-Plikat, Project Review Coordinator, at 907-269-7472. Fax 907-269-3981 or email [email protected] or go to http://www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us/.
**August 27Deadline for nominations for up to six new board members to serve as public member representatives for the KENAI RIVER SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREA ADVISORY BOARD. The KRSMA Board is a 17 member Advisory Board comprised of 9 members representing a broad spectrum of public interests, and 8 members representing various state or federal agencies or local government. Incumbent board members whose terms are expiring this year may also indicate their desire to continue on the board and may be reappointed. Board terms will be a mix of one-year and three-year terms decided by the Commissioner of Natural Resources. The KRSMA Advisory Board meets monthly except for the summer months and advises the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources on issues related to the management of the Kenai River Special Management Area. The Board will be working on the continuing implementation of the recommendations in the Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan. Some of the special projects that the Board will be addressing over the coming year include reviewing results from the 2009 Recreation Use Study on the Kenai River, and making recommendations to the Commissioner of Natural Resources regarding implementation of the study findings and conclusions. Landowners, sport or commercial fishermen, recreational boaters or others interested in Kenai River habitat, fish or wildlife resources or recreation issues are urged to apply for a position on the Board. Go to http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/misc/boards.htm for the online applications and information on advisory boards. Electronic submissions may be sent to . Contact Alaska State Parks at 262-5581 or the Kenai River Center at 260-4882 for more information.
**August 27Deadline for comments on the NOAA FISHERIES DRAFT BIOLOGICAL OPINION on the BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) AND GULF OF ALASKA (GOA) GROUNDFISH FISHERIES. NOAA’s Fisheries Service conclusion says changes are needed to the areas where commercial fishermen may fish for groundfish off Alaska’s Aleutian Islands to further promote the recovery of the western population of Steller sea lions, and to be in compliance with the Endangered Species Act. The document addresses possible effects of current management practices for groundfish fisheries in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands and Gulf of Alaska on endangered species, including North Pacific humpback and sperm whales and the western Aleutian Island sub-population of
Steller sea lions. Fishers harvest more than 4 billion pounds of fish from the area each year. The draft Biological Opinion is available at http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/protectedresources/stellers/esa/biop/draft/0810.htm. Comments can be submitted to: Jim Balsiger, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, NMFS, Attn: Ellen Sebastian, at Fax (907) 586–7557 or email [email protected].
August 30 (Corrected Date)Comments are due for submitting information for the STATUS REVIEW THE STELLER SEA LION POPULATION. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will conduct a 5–year review of the eastern Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of the Steller Sea Lion that was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1990. A 5–year review of the listing is required under the ESA and is conducted to ensure that the listing classification of a species is accurate and it is based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. NMFS is requesting submission of any such information on the eastern DPS of the Steller Sea Lion that has become available since their last status review in 1995. Based on the results of a 5–year review, the agency will determine whether or not a species should be removed from the list (delisted), or reclassified from endangered to threatened or from threatened to endangered. Delisting a species must be supported by the best scientific and commercial data available and only considered if such data substantiates that the species is neither endangered nor threatened for one or more of the following reasons: (1) the species is considered extinct; (2) the species is considered to be recovered; and/or (3) the original data available when the species was listed, or the interpretation of such data, were in error. Any change in federal classification would require a separate rulemaking process. Additional information on the Steller Sea Lion, the 5-year review and how to submit information or comments can be found at http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/notice/75fr37385.pdf or by contacting Dr. Lisa Rotterman at (907–271–1692) or email [email protected].
EVENTS & MEETINGS \ANCHORAGE - EAGLE RIVER & GIRDWOOD
**August 14 (Additional Information)AUTUMN WINGS FESTIVAL: BYE BYE BIRDIE will be held from 11am to 4pm at Bird TLC. 1550 Old Seward Highway. As our feathered friends begin their flight south for the winter,.celebrate autumn, the outdoors and Alaska's wild birds. See wild eagles, owls, hawks and ravens up close. Experience a falconry demonstration, shop the outdoor sculpture at the art show, and get close to a porcupine. Featuring outdoor and wildlife organizations, presentations, a bird calling contest, art, food, music andfun. Don't miss the Eagle release at 3:30pm. For more information, c Call 562-4852
August 14The WESTCHESTER LAGOON-A-THON BIRDING SMACKDOWN will be held starting at 8:30am at the north parking lot of Westchester Lagoon. Join WhiteKeys and the Anchorage Audubon Society to see what team can spot the most birds. Get your team together today, because once again the sport of Birding in Alaska will turn Ugly!! June’s Potter Marsh-A-thon was so hilarious, we’re throwing another competition in the middle of town. Who can find the most species in 4 hours? Who’s team has the best name? Who will make all other birders eat crow even if no crows are found? All birders are welcome from beginners to experts—all you need is an in-your-face attitude, a team of 2-6 fanatics, and a $20 entry fee (per team.) Sign-in is at 8:30 a.m. The Smackdown will begin at 9:00, will end at 1:00 pm, and will be followed by a potluck tailgate party and Awards Ceremony. High tide is a HUGE 31-footer at 10:58 am which will bring the birds up close and personal. At the end of the birding competition, we’ll plot all birds that are even remotely unusual on a map so that everyone can then go find anything they missed during the morning of birding. Everybody is welcome, so assemble your team, whip up a dish to share, and meet us Saturday Morning at 8:30 for an outrageous birding field trip with Fabulous Prizes! Birding will be limited to the Westchester Lagoon area and adjacent bike trails. All birding must be on foot or on bicycles. If you don’t have a team, show up anyway and we’ll force somebody to let you be on
their team! It’s the anti-social event of the ornithological season. To register your team’s name early or for more information, contact [email protected].
August 19FRIENDS of the ANCHORAGE COASTAL WILDLIFE REFUGE will conduct another training for Anchorage Coastal Beluga Survey volunteers. This is for new volunteers to the project and former volunteers who need to catch up. To sign up, contact [email protected] to reserve a spot now . The afternoon session has been cancelled. We will offer a single class from 5:30 to 8pm. You may download the forms by going to this website: https://sites.google.com/site/fardoc2010/home Turn in your completed volunteer forms by email attachment, and mail us your signed waivers, or bring them with you to the class.
August 21RESIDENTIAL PLASTIC POT RECYCLING EVENT will be held from 10am to 5pm at the Alaska Botanical Garden / Benny Benson School Parking Lot. Only #2 HDPE pots and #5 PP, #6 PS and #7 other pots, cell packs & trays can be recycled. Check the bottom of the container. Rinse or remove all soil from containers, Remove metal hangers, Stack like pots to save space.-Pre-sort pots before arriving (for 2 bins at event). Only bring pots during the event. No pre or post event drop off! Recyclers are welcome to take pots home for re-use. For more information call Mary Fisher, ALPAR at 644-7968 or email [email protected].
**August 21Celebrate ALASKA SOCIETY OF OUTDOOR AND NATURE PHOTOGRAPHERS’ SILVER ANNIVERSARY at the Eklutna Group Campground in Chugach State Park. Informal workshops will start at 8am. Camera equipment swap will be held around noon. Saturday evening meal is provided by ASONP. Keynote speaker, RICK SINNOTT (retired ADF&G) will talk about bear and moose safety for photographers. For complete agenda, go to http://asonp.org. Please RSVP to [email protected].
**August 23ANCHORAGE - Public meeting will be held in to take comments on the proposal by NOAA FISHERIES SERVICE ALASKA FISHERIES SCIENCE CENTER (AFSC) help ENHANCE AND IMPROVE THE COMMUNITY PROFILES FOR NORTH PACIFIC FISHERIES - ALASKA (originally published in 2005). The profiles will be updated in 2011 with information from the 2010 U.S. Census and the Alaskan community input gathered from the regional meetings. The meeting will focus on engaging Alaskan fishing community leaders and the public to provide meaningful information on how to revise the community profiles so that they are better representative of communities. Some of the themes that will shape the discussion include: *An exchange of local stories that best illustrate the way in which fishing shapes the fabric of your community; *Information that fishery managers need to know about Alaskan communities that is not currently represented in the community profiles; and *Ways to best gather or compile this new information for each community. For time and location and to register for the meeting , contact Dr. Amber Himes at NOAA’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center at 206-526-4221 or A [email protected]. Once you have completed your registration, an agenda and further information will be sent to you prior to the meeting.
**August 25MUSHROOM FAIR will be held at 7pm at the BLM Campbell Creek Science Center (5600 Science Center Drive). Have fun learning about fungi. Local mushroom enthusiasts will share their knowledge about mushrooms through posters, discussion, and specimens from all over South-central Alaska. Bring specimens from your own backyard to identify. Please call 267-1247 for more information.
**August 25
Public meeting will be held from 7 to 8:30pm at the Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel, 3rd Avenue to discuss the MERGING OF FORT RICHARDSON AND ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE’S HAZARDOUS WASTE OPERATIONS into on entity by modifying the current Elmendorf Hazardous Waste Part B permit issued by the EPA. For a copy of the permit application, contact Mr. Jon Scudder at 907-552-4157 or email [email protected]. Send comments by October 7 to EPA c/o Ms. Holly Arrigoni by email to [email protected].
**August 26AMATS Policy Committee will meet from 1 to 3pm in the Mayor’s 8th Floor Conference Room, City Hall. For more information, email [email protected] or call 343-7991.
**August 28MEET YOUR CREEK—CAMPBELL CREEK will be held from 11am to 2pm at Campbell Creek at Bancroft Park, Shelikof and Rakof on the bide trail. Learn more about one of Anchorage’s major creeks and watersheds. Draining about 70 square miles, the Campbell Creek watershed offers a variety of opportunities for recreation and nature experiences. It can be rafted, canoed, kayaked, and fished, and its riparian area is the home to numerous terrestrial wildlife (moose, bear, fox, marten and beavers) as well as salmon, rainbow trout, sculpin, and stickleback. Anchorage Waterways Council will put on a program to familiarize residents with this creek and what we, as stewards, need to do to keep our urban creeks healthy. Find out about restoration projects and the creek’s long history. Naturalists will be on hand to lead creek walks and to collect macroinvertebrates (small water insects that indicate a creek’s health and are fish food). There are educational activities for all ages. For additional information please check our website at www.anchoragecreeks.org or contact Cherie Northon at [email protected] or 272-7335.
**August 26 (Teleconference Available) EXXON VALDEZ OIL SPILL TRUSTEE COUNCIL will meet at 9:30am in the Restoration Office441 W. 5th Ave., Suite 500. Trustee Council meetings are open to the public. You may participate in person, or by telephone at 1-800-315-6338 with conference code 8205#. Meeting documents are available at http://www.evostc.state.ak.us/events/index.cfm?z=1&Upcoming=1. For more information on these events, please call (907) 278-8012.
MEETINGS & EVENTS OUT OF ANCHORAGE
August 14WASILLA - DIRTY DEEDS LOCAL FESTIVAL - A BENEFIT FOR ALASKA FARMLAND TRUST will be held from Noon to Midnight at Mile 18.4 Knik Goose Bay Road. Balance Alaska, an organization dedicated to the supporting Alaska's local economy and bringing community together. Adult tickets are $25, youth 13-18 are $15 and children under 13 are Free with a paying adult. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.BalanceAlaska.com.
August 14HOMER - Live concert featuring Homer’s own HOPE & HALLIE HUDSON, followed by KIMBERLY FORD, accompanied by KAREN STRID, MAPY PRESKITT & CURTIS BATES will be held at Land’s End Resort at 7pm. No Host Bar. Cost: $45/Person. All proceeds benefit the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, Connecting Families & Youth to the Nature of Alaska . For more information call: 235-6667 or go to www.akcoastalstudies.org.
August 14
FAIRBANKS - The University of Alaska Fairbanks will host the summer’s second REALLY FREE MARKET SATURDAY in the Nenana parking lot on the UAF campus. Free parking is available nearby. People can drop off items for the market from 8 to 10am. The market is open from 10am to 2pm. There is no bartering or selling. All items are free. For more information, visit www.uaf.edu/summer or call 907-474-7021.
August 14SOLDOTNA - KENAI RESILIENCE PARTY will be held from 4 to 8pm at Jackson Gardens, 48195 John’s Road (off Sterling Highway heading out toward Kasilof.) Celebrate the PEAK OF THE SEASON FOOD FEST at a potluck exchange of local Alaskan foods, recipes, & ideas! What to bring: *A food dish that was grown or produced in Alaska, *If you're learning about local foods, bring your favorite dish with ingredients from the supermarket, *(Please bring a recipe card too!), *A lawn chair or blanket to sit on, and *Comfortable shoes for exploring the beautiful gardens. For more information, email [email protected].
August 15FAIRBANKS - RUN FOR THE REFUGE will be held at the UAF West Ridge Ski Hut. Celebrate 50 years of Arctic Refuge wilderness with this annual 5K or 10K walk or run through the beautiful trails at UAF. Registration: 12pm and the race starts at 1pm. Live music and prizes! Fun for the whole family! Entry fee/advance registration: Adults $15, Children $10, Day of race add $5. For more information, contact Hannah Thornton: [email protected].
**August 17HOMER - The CENTER FOR ALASKAN COASTAL STUDIES is offering a SPECIAL HALF DAY PETERSON BAY NATURE TOUR from 11am to 4pm. This tour allows you to have time across Kachemak Bay and to tour the great town of Homer as well. The rate for the tour is special as well - $80 for adults and $50 for children under 12. Boat ride across Kachemak Bay will provide opportunities to view marine birds and a seabird colony. Once onshore, you will be guided by expert naturalists on a developed trail system to experience the incredible richness on the edge of the wilderness, have hands-on experiences with the many types of animals from the zone between Kachemak Bay's tides for viewing and photographing an astonishing variety of colorful and fascinating marine animals. You will have time to relax at the Peterson Bay Field Station and have more close-up views of intertidal inhabitants at the Station's aquaria and live tanks before heading back to Homer. Please call 907-235-6667 or email [email protected] with any questions or to make your reservation, space is limited to 18 passengers.
**August 17HOMER - KACHEMAK BAY CLEAN HARBORS DAY will be held from 2 to 4pm. Meet behind the Harbormaster’s office where trash bags, snacks, and information about how you can help keep Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet clean will be distributed. Teams are needed to gather trash at the harbor and out to the Land’s End fishing area. All participants will be entered to win a free round trip ticket with Homer Air. For more information contact Rachel at 235-4068 x29 or email [email protected].
August 17PALMER - ALASKA AGRICULTURE APPRECIATION DAY will be held from 11am to 4pm at 1509 South Trunk Road. Celebrate agriculture in Alaska and the 75th Anniversary of the Matanuska Colony. Farmers' market, Local Vendors, hay wagon & pony rides, three-legged races, goat milking demonstration, steam tractor engine display, live music featuring the Air Force Band, tours of the research labs and fields, and much, much more! A free, fun-filled day for the whole family. For more information, contact Phyllis Craig at 907-746-9495 or email [email protected].
August 17WASILLA - Public hearing/ open house will be held from 6 to 8pm at the Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center, 1001 South Mack Drive, to collect comments on the ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA)proposed to improve PARKS HIGHWAY MP 44-52, LUCUS ROAD TO BIG LAKE ROAD. This project proposes improving 8.3 miles of the Parks Highway, beginning at Lucas Road (milepost 44) and ending approximately a half mile past Big Lake Road (milepost 52). The project is located within the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. This project will require compliance with Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands) due to potential project impacts to wetlands and property acquisition for right-of-way. Copies of the EA are available for review online at www.parkshighway44-52.info. For more information, contact Anne Brooks, at (907) 272-1877 or email [email protected]. To submit comments, contact Brian Elliott, DOT&PF Regional Environmental Manager. 4111 Aviation Drive. Anchorage, Alaska 99519.
**August 18JUNEAU - KIN Juneau Presentation THE NORTH DOUGLAS CAUSEWAY from 5:30 to 7:30pm at The Historic Silverbow Inn. RICK SHATTUCK, The SAFE Committee and the North Douglas Working Group will discuss proposed Causeway.
**August 18 (Additional Information)FAIRBANKS - FMATS (FAIRBANKS METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM) POLICY COMMITTEE will meet at 10am in the State of Alaska DOT & PF Main Conference Room, 2301 Peger Road. Main Agenda Items Include: •Status of the North Pole Road-Rail Crossing Project Funding, •2011 – 2012 Unified Planning Work Program, •Tanana Loop/Alumni Drive Roundabout-North Tanana Drive Extension, •PM2.5 Transportation Conformity Determination Status Update, •23rd Avenue Improvements Change Order, •LED Street-light Conversion Project, •North Pole Interchange Pedestrian Facilities, •Coordinator’s Office FFY11 Budget Approval, and • STIP Nominations. For more information, please contact: Donna Gardino at (907) 459-6786, Fax (907) 459-6783 or email [email protected].
**August 19WASILLA - WASILLA SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT BOARD will meet at 9:30am at the Wasilla SWCD office. Cooperators and the public is encouraged to attend. Proposed agenda: Agency reports, Public comments, Employee reports, Financial report. -Old Business: RC&D MOU, -New Business: Certify Cooperator List, Annual Report. For more information, please contact Carolyn Weimer, District Manager, at 357-4563 ext. 103, or email [email protected].
August 20 22PALMER - INTRODUCTION TO MUSHROOMS & FUNGI course will be held at the Palmer Cooperative Extension Service from 6 to 9pm Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm and 6:30 to 9:30pm on Saturday and 8:30am to 4:30pm on Sunday. $100.00 Registration & $20.00 Book. Dr. GARY LAURSEN, UAF Research Professor in Mycology within the Institute of Arctic Biology, will present this three-day course on identifying and using Alaska mushrooms & fungi. Registration deadline: August 13. For registration and additional information, call 907-745-3360.
**August 25 & 31Public meetings will be held in UNALASKA/DUTCH HARBOR on August 25 and BETHEL on August 31 to take comments on the proposal by NOAA FISHERIES SERVICE ALASKA FISHERIES SCIENCE CENTER (AFSC) help ENHANCE AND IMPROVE THE COMMUNITY PROFILES FOR NORTH PACIFIC FISHERIES - ALASKA (originally published in 2005). The profiles will be updated in 2011 with information from the 2010 U.S. Census and the Alaskan community input gathered from the regional meetings. The meeting will focus on engaging Alaskan fishing
community leaders and the public to provide meaningful information on how to revise the community profiles so that they are better representative of communities. Some of the themes that will shape the discussion include: *An exchange of local stories that best illustrate the way in which fishing shapes the fabric of your community; *Information that fishery managers need to know about Alaskan communities that is not currently represented in the community profiles; and *Ways to best gather or compile this new information for each community. For time and location and to register for the meeting , contact Dr. Amber Himes at NOAA’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center at 206-526-4221 or A [email protected]. Once you have completed your registration, an agenda and further information will be sent to you prior to the meeting. There is limited funding available to assist participants with travel costs to these meetings. Travel stipends will be given out on a first come first served basis until the funding runs out. The amount given to each person requesting funding will be based on anticipated expenses and the extent that participants can cover some of the costs themselves. In order to apply for funding, please send an email to [email protected] with a description of your anticipated travel costs and a proposal for why you would like to attend and how much money you would need to allow you to attend. For additional information on the community profiles, contact Dr. Jennifer Sepez at 206-526-6546 or [email protected].
**August 26SITKA - Public meeting will be held at 7pm in the Harrigan Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Drive to discuss the FIRST DRAFTS OF THREE NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK PRESERVATION PLANS and to receive comments and suggestions from key stakeholders and interested members of the community. This project received funding assistance from the National Park Service through a Preserve America Grant. Project planners will present a general overview of the project's scope, goals and objectives, and general timeline. Participants will be given the opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns, and submit comments to the planning team. For more information email Doug Gasek at [email protected] or call 907-269-8726.
**August 26JUNEAU - JUNEAU RAPTOR CENTER BOARD will meet at 630pm in the Downtown Library in the large conference room. All are welcome. For more information, call 586-8393 (message phone) or Pat at 364-3389.
**August 26JUNEAU - TRAIL MIX MONTHLY BOARD meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm in the main conference room of the Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road. Please bring your trail comments and concerns.
**August 26KENAI - KNIK ARM BRIDGE AND TOLL AUTHORITY (KABATA) will hold a Board of Directors Meeting at 1:30pm in the City of Kenai Assembly Chambers located at 210 Fidalgo Avenue, Kenai, Alaska. This is an open Meetings and the public is invited to attend. Agenda is available at http://www.knikarmbridge.com/documents/4-10BODMtgAgenda.pdf. For more information, call the KABATA office at (907 ) 269-6698.
ITEMS OF INTEREST
** U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today awarded the SERVICE CITIZEN’S AWARD to VIRGINIA”GINNY” WOOD of Fairbanks, Alaska. The Service Citizen’s Award commends private citizens and organizations for their significant contributions to the mission and goals of the Service. Wood arrived in Alaska in 1947 by flying a war-surplus airplane from Seattle to Fairbanks. Her
conservation career began with grassroots organizing that helped convince the Eisenhower Administration to set aside what became the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. As part of this organizing effort, Wood co-founded the Alaska Conservation Society, Alaska’s first conservation organization. She also played a significant role in the passage of the 1980 Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, and had a leading role in the 1950s and 60s opposing the proposed Rampart Dam, which would have flooded the entire Yukon Flats, and the Project Chariot proposal, which would have used nuclear explosives to blast a harbor in northwestern Alaska. Among her many accomplishments, Wood started Alaska’s first ecotourism venture, Camp Denali, at Denali National Park. In addition, she has served as a mentor to countless young emerging conservationists.
**CLIMATE ADAPTATION, RISK MANAGEMENT AND DECISION-MAKING PARTNERING OPPORTUNITYwith the ALASKA CENTER FOR CLIMATE ASSESSMENT AND POLICY (ACCAP), http://ine.uaf.edu/accap/) in CO-HOSTING A POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW in 2011-2013. Eligible institutions include national-(excluding NOAA-funded programs), regional-, state-, or municipal-level agencies and organizations (public and non-profit) that manage or regulate natural resources, prepare for natural disasters, or prevent or reduce the impacts of public health emergencies. Areas of study may include water resource management, ecosystems, coastal risk management, hydrometeorological disasters, public health, and energy. Participation allows these institutions to engage fresh intellectual capacity from the climate science community to work on problems relevant to their operations/decision making. The partnership will be part of an application for Postdocs Applying Climate Expertise fellowship program (PACE, http://www.vsp.ucar.edu/pace/index.html). This program matches early-career PhDs with decision-making institutions to research and develop tools that will apply climate prediction information to climate-impacted decisions. The program encourages and builds the pool of scientists qualified to transfer advances in climate science and climate prediction into climate-related decision frameworks and decision tools. Participation allows for capacity building and work on climate-related problems relevant to the partnering institution’s operations and decision making. Please respond by August 27th. To partner with ACCAP in this opportunity, please call or email Brook Gamble at 907-474-7812 or email [email protected].
Dr. MICHAEL GOLDSTEIN, a wildlife ecologist, has been appointed the first DIRECTOR OF THE NEW ALASKA COASTAL RAINFOREST CENTER in Juneau. The center was recently established to help facilitate coastal temperate rainforest research and education and is a consortium of six public agencies. The Alaska Coastal Rainforest Center objectives include: * Providing formal and informal K – 12, undergraduate and graduate education, professional training, in-service training, technical assistance, public relations and demonstration programs relating to coastal rainforest ecosystems. * Providing a stimulating, state-of-the-art, collaborative research environment to expand and enhance research initiatives undertaken by partner agencies. * Applying knowledge gained through collaboration to meet the education and management needs for sustainable use of the resources contained within coastal rainforest ecosystems. * Making methods, literature, and new findings available to the public and communities of interest, and disseminating this information through a wide range of media products (i.e. bulletins, films, journal and magazine articles, and the internet). * Disseminating regional, long-term predictive climate models.
UAA's APPLIED ENVIRONMENT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM is offering classes this fall. In 2009 UAA began offering a graduate certificate in ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION & PERMITTING. This program is growing in popularity. See the program web site for more information at http://www.engr.uaa.alaska.edu/programs/environmental/index.cfm. Classes begin on August 23.
BLM is preparation of an INTEGRATED ACTIVITY PLAN AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT for the NATIONAL PETROLEUM RESERVE-ALASKA (NPR-A). The new plan
will incorporate the most current information and lay out management goals, objectives, and actions that would be consistent across the entire NPR-A. The plan will also take into account emerging issues such as climate change and the recent listing of polar bears as a threatened and endangered species. This planning effort will help identify management actions to mitigate impacts to resources from oil and gas leasing and other activities that may occur in NPR-A in the future. Public scoping meetings are planned for Anaktuvuk Pass, Anchorage, Atqasuk, Barrow, Fairbanks, Nuiqsut, and Wainwright. Additional public scoping meetings may be held if there is strong community interest. Public scoping meeting dates, times, and locations will be announced through local media and the BLM website at http://www.blm.gov/ak. Written comments may be submitted at the public scoping meetings, or by Fax at (907) 271-5479, or emailed to [email protected], or submitted online at http://www.blm.gov/ak. For information about the plan, contact Jim Ducker at907-271-3130 or email [email protected].
NEW INTERACTIVE STATE PARKS TRAIL MAPS are available at http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aktrails/explore/atbrowser.htm The trail map browser includes information about trails located in: Chugach State Park, Caines Head State Recreation Area, Kachemak Bay State Park, Hatcher Pass Management Area, and Denali State Park. Trails located in other state park areas will be added in the future. The trail browser includes, trail locations displayed with Google imagery as well as trail difficulty, length, photos of facilities and views from the trails. Want to find a moderately difficult hiking only trail in Denali State Park? Or, an easy trail for the kids close to Anchorage? There's a query tool that will make the search quick and easy. Print maps of the Chugach State Park trails from links at http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aktrails/mapguides.htm.
SAVE THE DATE! ALASKA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION CONSERVATION ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS BANQUET will be held on September 24 at 6 (reception ) with dinner and the awards starting at 7 at the Lucy Cuddy Hall, University of Alaska Anchorage. Watch the ACF website at www.alaskaconservation.org for future details and announcement of this year’s winners.
ENTER ARCTIC REFUGE 50TH ANNIVERSARY PHOTO CONTEST. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge through photography! Enter and get your image(s) published in a 2011 calendar that will celebrate 50 years of Arctic Refuge Wilderness as it looks forward to the next 50 – 500 years of protection as pristine special place as part of our national heritage. Entry deadline is August 31 For more information, go to http://northern.org/files/arctic-files/arctic-natioal-wildlife-refuge-50th-anniversary/arctic-refuge-50th-anniversary-calendar-photo-contest .
The SPRING/SUMMER 2010 ALASKA CLIMATE DISPATCH is available at http://ine.uaf.edu/accap/dispatch.htm.This is the first edition of a quarterly outlook that provides seasonal weather and climate summaries as well as Alaska weather, wildfire, and sea ice outlooks in one easily accessible document. The Alaska Center for Climate Assessment and Policy has developed this prototype climate information tool in partnership with the Alaska Climate Research Center, SEARCH Sea Ice Outlook, National Centers for Environmental Prediction, and the National Weather Service. It is distributed electronically and made available on the website. To be added to the listserve, please send a request to [email protected].
VOLUNTEERS OPPORTUNITIES
**Volunteers are needed on August 29 to help with WILD SALMON DAY at the ALASKA STATE FAIR. Show your opposition to the Pebble Mine and help spread the word about wild salmon. Volunteers are needed for four hour shifts throughout the day and will receive free fair admission, free fair parking, and a volunteer T-Shirt. Volunteers are also needed to help at the Renewable Resources Coalition booth from August 26th to September 6th educating people on the risks of the proposed Pebble Mine and the
economic, social, and environmental benefits of Bristol Bay. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Melissa at [email protected] or 907-743-1900
**The ALASKA PUBLIC LANDS INFORMATION CENTER in FAIRBANKS is looking for volunteers to STAFF THE ALASKA GEOGRAPHIC BOOKSTORE, and ASSIST WITH SPECIAL EVENTS. Commitment is for four-hour time blocks, but other schedules can be accommodated. For more information, please contact the Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center at 907.459.3730 or email [email protected].
THE RENEWABLE RESOURCES COALITION needs fun and energetic volunteers for the ALASKA STATE FAIR "WILD SALMON DAY" on August 29th. Volunteers are needed for four hour shifts throughout the day. Volunteers will receive free fair admission, free fair parking, and a volunteer T-Shirt. Volunteers are also needed to help at our booth from August 26th - September 6th educating people on the risks of the proposed PEBBLE MINE and the economic, social, and environmental benefits of BRISTOL BAY, ALASKA . For more information or to volunteer, please contact Melissa at [email protected] or 907-743-1900.
ANCHORAGE COASTAL BELUGA SURVEY: FRIENDS OF THE ANCHORAGE COASTAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (FAR) and DEFENDERS OF WILDLIFE are looking for Volunteers to take part in their ANNUAL BELUGA WHALE SURVEY. The survey is conducted for 3-4 hours on specified days during summer and fall. Volunteers observe and record data. Training provided. Read more and download beluga survey application and required waiver at https://sites.google.com/site/fardoc2010/. For more information write [email protected].
VOLUNTEER TRAIL PROJECT: LOWER THUNDERBIRD FALLS TRAIL from 10am to 2pm on August 21st in Chugach State Park. For more information or to sign up, call park headquarters at 907-345-5014 or email [email protected].
The TANANA VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION is recruiting volunteer WATER QUALITY MONITORS to assist with its Adopt-a-Stream program. Spend 15 minutes a week measuring pH, Conductivity, and water temperatures. Your efforts will help keep our streams and rivers healthy. For more information or to sign up, please email [email protected].
ALASKA FARMLAND TRUST is seeking fun, motivated people to help man their BOOTH at the ALASKA STATE FAIR IN PALMER will be held from August 24-September 6. Volunteers will receive free admission in to the fairs. If you have a few hours to spare on those days and would like to help Alaska Farmland Trust educate the public about the importance of protecting agricultural lands then contact Margaret at [email protected] or via phone at 907-745-3336.
THE EAGLE RIVER NATURE CENTER located in Eagle River, Alaska has an immediate vacancy for a SUMMER RESIDENT VOLUNTEER to help at the information desk for the months of August and September 2010. Housing, stipend and more available with an 8 week commitment. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to receive further information. Position is open until filled.
VOLUNTEERS OPPORTUNITIES are available in CHUGACH STATE PARK. Chugach State Park is looking for good people like you, who would like to give back to the community. We need volunteers to come out and help us with trail work. You can volunteer one Saturday or every Saturday throughout the whole summer. Here are the times and places.Date Time Meeting Spot Trail ProjectAug. 21, 2010 10am-4pm Thunder Bird Fall Lower T-Bird RerouteSept. 4, 2010 10am-4pm Glen Alps Flattop Railroad Ties Removal
For more information please call Mat Wedeking at 345-5014.
INTERNSHIPS
INTERNSHIP with the KACHEMAK BAY RESEARCH RESERVE in Homer will help the KBRR outreach local coastal science topics by restructuring and updating its website. Intern will also help compile a Kachemak Bay research database and organize its KBRR image library, both of which will be made available on the new KBRR website. Must be enrolled in a university program or be a recent graduate, be enthusiastic, self-motivated, willing to learn, and have great communication skills. Experience with html and website design. Please contact Megan Murphy at (907) 226-4653 or [email protected] for more information.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
**SAGA is currently recruiting for THREE MORE AMERICORPS MEMBERS through the CONNECTIONS PROGRAM in ALASKA. SAGA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve lives, lands, and communities in Alaska through Service Learning. These positions will be full time (40 hours a week for 11 months) and will be based in either Anchorage or Juneau, depending on the program. We are currently seeking Members for the following: Healthy Program Assistant – CARES, Community Volunteer Specialist – SAGA, and Classroom Assistant – Juneau Youth Services. Members receive a monthly living stipend, health insurance, an education award upon completion of the program, and many other great benefits! Please review full job postings at www.servealaska.org, email [email protected] or call 907-790-6412 for more information.
**MARKETING & PR ASSISTANT for ALASKA WILDLAND ADVENTURES - Desired skills: able to write & produce promotional materials: press releases, ads, collateral/website content, responses to queries from the public and industry, and other printed materials; coordinate and track the performance of marketing initiatives; savvy computer skills (MS Word, Power Point, Access Data Base, Adobe); & ability to work directly with industry professionals. Must be a flexible, innovative team player who embraces deadlines. Desktop publishing & printing experience a huge plus. Ideal position for someone who wants to begin a career in the tourism industry with a known and respected Alaska-owned company. Year-round F/T position based in Girdwood with excellent benefit package; wages $12 - $14/hr., DOE. Experience preferred, BA in marketing, journalism, English, graphic design, or communications. Interested applicants, please email resume and writing sample(s) to [email protected] or mail to attn: Marketing Director, Alaska Wildland Adventures, PO Box 389, Girdwood, AK 99587, fax 907.783.3354.
**BRISTOL BAY PROGRAM DIRECTOR for ALASKA MARINE CONSERVATION COUNCIL, a full-time Bristol Bay Program Director based out of their Anchorage office. This position oversees all aspects of our work to permanently protect Bristol Bay and the southeast Bering Sea from offshore drilling. Competitive salary and benefits D.O.E. Click here for a full description or visit www.akmarine.org to learn more and for details on how to apply. Position open at least through August.
**MEMBERSHIP MANAGER for ALASKA PUBLIC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (KSKA & KAKM). The Membership Manager is a key position in the APTI Development Department. Individual donors contribute over 1.5 million dollars annually through KAKM and KSKA memberships and major gifts – constituting the largest category of organizational revenue. The Membership Manager is responsible for the planning, implementation and oversight of all Membership level ($10 - $999) development campaigns - from local television and radio on-air appeals to direct mail to email contact.
For a full job description, please go to http://kska.org/about/employment/. Submit resumes to [email protected].
WRITER / GRANTWRITER for the EYAK PRESERVATION COUNCIL (EPC) in Cordova. This is a freelance/remote position for the small successful grassroots non-profit organization with far-reaching conservation projects in the Prince William Sound and Copper River Delta region. They are looking for an experienced writer with journalistic tendencies. Grantwriting and report writing a must, with skills in writing engaging updates, newsletters and possibly web updates. Applicant should have superior writing and grammar skills, as well as the ability to work independently and meet deadlines. Also important is the ability to pay attention to detail and the ability to understand financial and general budget matters. Familiarity with Alaska conservation and development issues, including Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act and Native subsistence issues very helpful. Pay is hourly and with percentages of accepted grants, DOE. NOTE – some respondent’s emails were lost due to a “spam-junk-mail” server problem that has been corrected – so please resend if you haven’t heard back from us. Please send resume to [email protected].
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT for ALASKA GEOGRAPHIC CENTRAL OFFICE in Anchorage. This is a part-time position that provides administrative support to the director of development and plays a key role in representing Alaska Geographic to members and donors. A friendly and professional demeanor is essential, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks and priorities is required. The successful candidate will exhibit consistent attention to detail and strong communication skills. Alaska Geographic is the nonprofit education partner to Alaska’s national parks, wildlife refuges, and national forests and connects people to these magnificent landscapes through bookstores and outdoor education programs. Alaska Geographic also invites people to join a caring community of stewards of Alaska’s wildlands through membership and charitable giving. Duties and Responsibilities: Maintain positive member and donor relations and confidentiality of donor records. Prepare and mail renewal notices, donation appeals, and donor acknowledgment letters. Inventory and ship materials to branches and track membership recruitment by branch staff. Answer member inquiries via email and telephone Prepare weekly deposits for membership and donations. Maintain database of members, donors and donations and physical files of donor information, Prepare donation and membership reports and set up mail merges, and Maintain email contact directories in Microsoft Outlook. Qualifications: High School diploma or equivalent, Ability to prioritize and to meet deadlines, Ability to enter data with high degree of accuracy, Strong telephone customer service skills, Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing, Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel, Typing speed of 40wpm and 10 key speed of 100 kpm with few to no errors, Flexibility and willingness to learn new skills, Ability to work as a team member, and Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. Wages & Hours: 20 hours per week, year-round, Flexible hours within 8:30am to 5pm, Monday - Friday; $13.00 per hour, does not include benefits his is a non-exempt position. To apply mail, fax, or email resume to: Alaska Geographic, Attn: Development Director, 810 East Ninth Ave., Anchorage, AK 9950, email [email protected] or Fax: 907-274-8343. For more information, go to http://alaskageographic.org/category/18/about-us.
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR for the ALASKA GEOGRAPHIC ASSOCIATION They seek an experienced communications professional to provide a broad range of communications support to the organization. The Communications Director will work closely with all departments within the organization and reports to the Executive Director. The position is part-time (approximately 25 hours per week) located in Anchorage. Salary is DOE, plus competitive benefits. Responsibilities: Responsible for consistent, strategic messaging of Alaska Geographic’s mission and brand across all program areas and communication media. Provide writing and editing support for all Alaska Geographic staff in membership and fundraising, education, bookstores, publishing and support programs. Works directly with executive director on external communications. Produce and distribute two monthly electronic newsletters for internal and external audiences. Manage and maintain newsletter contact lists. Maintain and develop
content for Alaska Geographic’s website, www.alaskageographic.org. Keep information up-to-date, create new content, and provide consistency in language and messaging throughout the website, including the e-commerce section of the website. Develop, implement, and oversee online social media strategy for the organization. Develop and distribute Alaska Geographic promotional materials in cooperation with graphic design staff, including brochures, banners, bookmarks, and other marketing products. Serve as contact point for media and community relations. Develop and implement marketing plans for events,new publications, etc. and Work collaboratively with a diverse and dispersed staff team to create and manage cross-organizational, integrated communication pieces. Qualifications: The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, very organized, self-directed, an excellent communicator, and will meet the following qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or a related field. Strong writing and editing skills and related work experience. Familiar with Alaska’s public lands and the cultural and natural heritage of Alaska. Excellent people skills and an upbeat and enthusiastic attitude. Ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently. Solid computer skills; some knowledge of graphic and web design a plus. Inquiries welcome, this position is open until filled. Email, mail or fax resume and cover letter to: Communications Director, 810 East Ninth Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska 99501. Email: [email protected]; or Fax (907) 274-8343.
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR for the COOK INLETKEEPER - Cook Inletkeeper is a community-based nonprofit organization formed in 1995 to protect Alaska’s Cook Inlet watershed and the life it sustains. Inletkeeper plays a leading role in the Alaska conservation community and is a longtime member of the Waterkeeper Alliance. Responsibilities: * Build and oversee a growing base of members and major donors, * Cultivate and manage private foundation, government and business support, * Design and implement special events and other fundraising activities, and * Develop and maintain key relationships that strengthen Inletkeeper’s work. Qualifications: * Minimum 5 years of nonprofit development work, * Strong oral, written and interpersonal skills, * Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Quickbooks & Salesforce, and * Exceptional organization and time management skills. This is a full time position located in Homer. Salary D.O.E., with health, dental and retirement benefits, and generous leave package. Position open until filled. For a complete job description, see attached or www.inletkeeper.org. To apply: Send cover letter, resume, and three references to Cook Inletkeeper, Attn: Development Director Position, P.O. Box 3269, Homer, Alaska 99603. Electronic documents may also be sent to: [email protected] (Please include in subject line: “Development Director Application”) This position is open until filled. No phone calls or email inquiries please..
SAGA is currently recruiting for FIVE AMERICORPS MEMBERS through the CONNECTIONS PROGRAM in ALASKA. SAGA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve lives, lands, and communities in Alaska through Service Learning. These positions will be full time (40 hours a week for 11 months) and will be based in either Anchorage or Juneau, depending on the program. We are currently seeking Members for the following: Healthy Program Assistant – CARES, Community Research and Volunteer Development – United Way, Outreach Education Specialist – Trailside Discovery, Classroom Assistant – Juneau Youth Services, and Construction Trainer – SAGA. Members receive a monthly living stipend, health insurance, an education award upon completion of the program, and many other great benefits! Please review full job postings at www.servealaska.org, email [email protected] or call 907-790-6412 for more information.
PART-TIME DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT for FIRST ALASKANS INSTITUTE. This is a two year grant-funded, part-time position of 28 hours per week; the salary range is $18-21.50 and no benefits are included. For more information or to submit a resume, contact [email protected].
RECYCLING FIELD ASSISTANT for HAINES FRIENDS OF RECYCLING. Must be able to lift 40 pounds, have a valid AK driver’s license, operate power equipment and forklift, work outside year-round, and work independently under board direction. This is a year-round part time position,
approximately 20 hours per week. $12/hour. Haines is a beautiful and amazing place. HFR recycles close to 1,000 pounds a day from our little town of 2,400 people. Send letter of interest to POB 822, Haines or call 766-2185 for more information.
ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNER (FRA/ENV/8/3/10) POSITION (RESEARCH ASSOCIATE II SPECIAL) available with the CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT OF MILITARY LANDS, to be assigned at JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON (JBER) to provide Environmental Planning and National Environment Policy Act (NEPA) support for the U.S. Army / U.S. Air Force JBER environmental program. MINIMUM: U.S. citizenship is required. BS/BA in environmental planning, environmental science, biology, physical science, public health or related field. Two years post graduation work experience. CSU conducts a background check on all final candidates. View full details and application instruction at www.cemml.colostate.edu.
OFFICE COORDINATOR for the NATIONAL PARKS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION Alaska Office in Anchorage. Position requires accounting skills/experience. Twelve to 16 hours/week - flexible around your schedule. Minimum of three days a week, though four is preferable. Some mornings are necessary as headquarters is in DC. $20/hour DOE. No benefits. Full job description and other inquiries to [email protected]. To apply please go to www.npca.org/jobs.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY COORDINATOR for the ALASKA CONSERVATION ALLIANCE (ALLIANCE), Anchorage. The Energy Efficiency Coordinator’s efforts will be focused on helping the state of Alaska chart a course to achieve its 15% energy efficiency improvement goal by 2020, in addition to promoting energy efficiency projects in Alaska. The Energy Efficiency Coordinator will work closely with and report to the Alliance Executive Director. Responsibilities: Work with decision makers and stakeholders to help craft a plan or policies that will help Alaska reach its energy efficiency goals through demand-side management, Coordinate with the Alliance Executive Director to create and implement a priority campaign plan. Work with Alaskan businesses to improve energy efficiency through performance contracting and identify potential spokespersons, Create a print and downloadable energy efficiency guidebook detailing how much and specific ways that individuals or businesses can save money through efficiency, and step by step guides to achieving similar results, Working with stakeholders and nontraditional allies, help shape public opinion to embrace energy efficiency and energy planning, Work with allies and stakeholders on energy efficiency issues around the state, and Professionally and competently represent the Alliance and AEF in public forums. Qualifications: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal and the ability to interact with diverse coalitions, Strong campaign & program planning and implementation skills, Background in energy efficiency and Alaska energy community & politics strongly preferred, Excellent time management and organizational skills, Four-yearcollege degree or equivalent work experience required. A Bachelor’s degree with an advanced degree in relevant field desirable, and a Good sense of humor a must! Compensation: Salary is $45,000-52,000 DOE, plus health, dental and employer retirement contribution after vesting. This is a full-time, 1 year exempt position. For more information, please visit www.akvoice.org. Position open until filled, applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To apply, send cover letter, resume, three references and a writing/work product sample to Caitlin Higgins, Executive Director, at [email protected].
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of the NORTH PACIFIC RESEARCH BOARD Congress created the NPRB in 1997 to recommend marine research initiatives to the US Secretary of Commerce, who makes final funding decisions. More information about NPRB and the position is available at http://www.nprb.org/. Candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and a two-page summary of their philosophy on guiding collaborative research. Please send paper and electronic versions of these documents with contact information for four references to Cindy L. Ecklund, Senior Human Resource Manager, Alaska SeaLife Center, at [email protected]. Applications will be
accepted until August 30 and review of applications will take place in September with an anticipated start date of January 1, 2011.
CAMPAIGN MANAGER for ALASKA COMMUNITY SHARE, a non-profit workplace giving organization. The Campaign Manager is the Chief Executive Officer of the organization responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization and reports to the Board of Directors. Alaska Community Share offers employees the opportunity to support - through workplace giving via payroll deduction - non-profit organizations working in their communities. The successful candidate will have previous non-profit experience in a leadership role, experience in working with budgets and finance, excellent written and oral communication skills, a proven history at working independently without direct supervision, and a passion for the role of non-profits in our community. Additional skills include marketing, coalition building, planning, and public speaking. This position is part-time at 30 hours per week with and annual salary range of $28,000- $32,000 DOE. Please contact: Lainie Dreas, Board President, at [email protected].
The ALASKA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION, on behalf of the ALASKANS FOR ENERGY FREEDOM, seeks a CAMPAIGN DIRECTOR to lead a dynamic, multi-issue campaign aimed at transitioning Alaska to a clean energy future. Driven by the disproportionate impacts of climate change in Alaska, more than 30 conservation and tribal organizations are working together to ensure the vast amount of coal in Alaska stays in the ground and energy policy favors energy efficiency and renewable energy. The ideal candidate is excited by the challenge at hand, has 5+ years of leading complex conservation campaigns, an understanding of energy issues, proven leadership skills, and a desire to live and work in Alaska. Salary range is $60,000 - $80,000 with relocation reimbursement and excellent benefit package. A full position description can be found online at http://alaskaconservation.org/foundation/jobs/
VISTA ENERGY MEMBER for the ALASKA BUILDING SCIENCE NETWORK to work on two projects focusing on Energy Efficiency. Under the Village End Use Energy Efficiency Program. ABSN upgrades community buildings to be more energy efficient focusing primarily on lighting. The second project is ABSN’s Green Building Products Guide. Under the Energy Efficiency program the Vista Member will assist with communicating with village entities to set up, perform and follow-up on energy efficiency retrofits, focusing mainly on lighting upgrades. This may include cold calls to village entities, village-wide teleconferences, purchasing and shipping materials, setting up site visits, following up on remaining work and invoices after the site visits, financial reporting and final reporting. Some travel throughout rural Alaska may be necessary. Under ABSN’s Green Building Product Guide the VISTA member will be researching green building products, verifying whether or not they meet our standards, making calls to suppliers to introduce them to our guide and recruiting new products, educating consumers on green building products and aspects of designing and printing the guide. The VISTA member will also develop the energy efficiency education section of the guide. Candidates must be comfortable coordinating projects over the phone and be proficient in both Microsoft Word and Excel. Experience with Microsoft Access is preferred. This position is a part of the national Americorps program. Through Americorps the Vista Member will receive a living allowance of approximately $1,121 per month, with an education award of $5,350 or a cash stipend of $1,200 following completion of one full year of service. Based on eligibility the VISTA member may also receive health care, life insurance and child care assistance. The year of service will also include expense-paid technical training in energy issues, energy conservation, alternative energy sources, grant writing and a variety of other topics. Please visit www.americoprs.org for more information on VISTA Member benefits. In addition to the Americorps training, the VISTA Member will be able to attend any courses offered by ABSN during their year as a VISTA Member. To apply contact Anna Hilbruner at [email protected].
To RECEIVE What's Up, or to ADD meetings, events, publications, deadlines, websites, or CHANGE EMAIL ADDRESS OR UNSUBSCRIBE, contact Peg Tileston at 907-561-0540, FAX 907-563-2747 or [email protected].
