April 2024 Landscape Update from Alaska Conservation Foundation

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What we're monitoring this month:

A Monumental Win for Alaska's Brooks Range

The Biden administration's recent rejection of the proposed Ambler Road [[link removed]] is a major victory for Alaska's wilderness, signaling a commitment to protecting the Brooks Range and respecting the traditional practices of more than 30 Alaska Native communities. This controversial 211-mile road would have cut through a biodiverse landscape, crossing 11 rivers and thousands of streams, to support mining operations in the Ambler district. However, the Interior Department's final supplemental environmental impact statement (FSEIS) found that the road would cause significant and irreversible damage to the environment and Indigenous communities.

The proposed road posed a threat not only to wildlife habitats but also to the social and cultural fabric of the region. It would have disrupted traditional subsistence practices critical to the survival and cultural continuity of Alaska Native villages, many of which have thrived in this area for thousands of years. Indigenous leaders were at the forefront of the opposition, emphasizing how the road could disrupt caribou migration and pollute key salmon spawning grounds.

Chief Brian Ridley, chairman of the Tanana Chiefs Conference, hailed the decision as "a monumental step forward in the fight for Indigenous rights and environmental justice." This victory is the result of tireless efforts by the Defend the Brooks Range Coalition [[link removed]], a group of Indigenous communities, conservationists, and environmental organizations united to protect this region. The Biden administration's "No Action" decision sets a precedent for respecting Indigenous voices and prioritizing environmental justice.

A key factor in the success of this campaign was a collaborative approach that emphasized listening to the voices of those directly impacted by the project. As one coalition member explained, "When folks in the villages made it clear that the Defend the Brooks Range messaging wasn't really resonating with them, we pivoted to focus on content that was more relevant to their concerns and what was being shared out through smaller activist groups like Protect the Kobuk and No Ambler Road." The coalition's goal was to highlight the impact on communities and their relationship with the land.

Alaska Conservation Foundation proudly supported a grant to coalition members that helped celebrate the win via strategically placed thank-you advertisements. This prominent display of public appreciation for the Biden Administration's action helps set a positive precedent for protecting Alaska's lands, waters, and ways of life for upcoming conservation decisions across the state.

We encourage you to join us in celebrating this incredible win. If you'd like to show your support, please take a moment to thank President Biden, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, and Bureau of Land Management Director Tracy Stone-Manning for their commitment to Indigenous rights and environmental justice here [[link removed]].

What else you need to know

New Rules Protect Millions of Acres of Alaska’s Western Arctic from Future Oil Drilling [[link removed]]

The Biden administration introduced new regulations to protect 13 million acres of Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve from future oil drilling, prohibiting new oil-and-gas leasing in 10.6 million acres of Special Areas. This will help preserve crucial habitats for polar bears, caribou, and migratory birds, while safeguarding the traditional subsistence practices of Alaska Native communities. The new rule also establishes a process for creating or expanding Special Areas, reaffirming federal authority to protect these sensitive landscapes. Congratulations to all partners who contributed to this monumental victory.

Interior expects decision about Arctic refuge leasing after July 1, court document says [[link removed]]

A final decision on the Biden administration's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge oil-development program is expected in the third quarter of 2024, according to a court document filed by the U.S. Justice Department. The decision is part of an ongoing lawsuit launched by three Gwich’in tribal governments in Alaska, challenging former President Trump's authorization of oil exploration in the refuge's coastal plain, a crucial area for the Porcupine Caribou Herd. The Trump-era leases were canceled by Interior in 2023; AIDEA, the main bidder, has filed a lawsuit over this cancellation.

Army Corps of Engineers affirms denial of permit for Pebble Mine [[link removed]]

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers denied a permit for the proposed Pebble Mine, citing the EPA's veto against the project due to environmental concerns. Pebble's Vice President, Mike Heatwole, says the company is focused on overturning the EPA's veto. However, mine opponents stress the need for federal legislation to permanently protect Bristol Bay, indicating the fight against the mine isn't over yet.

Feds approve disaster declaration for 2022 Kuskokwim salmon fisheries [[link removed]]

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo approved a federal disaster declaration for the 2022 salmon fisheries on the Kuskokwim River. The declaration was requested by Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy after commercial revenue from chinook, chum, and coho fisheries fell to zero, impacting subsistence fishing. The disaster status could lead to federal disaster assistance, including loans or funding, for tribal organizations and businesses to offset economic and cultural losses.

Alaska Rep. Peltola stuns home region by defending Donlin gold mine, a project she used to oppose [[link removed]]

Alaska Congresswoman Mary Peltola, who ran with the slogan "Fish, Family, Freedom," surprised subsistence advocates in her Kuskokwim River region by supporting the proposed Donlin Creek Mine. She joined U.S. Senators on a legal brief backing the mine, which is opposed by tribal groups due to its environmental risks. Sophie Swope, executive director of the Bethel-based tribal coalition Mother Kuskokwim, expressed heartbreak over Peltola's shift, fearing the mine's impact on traditional salmon runs and cultural practices.

How to get involved

JOB OPPORTUNITY 💼: We are currently hiring a Communications Specialist! This position implements communications strategies, and assists with other work to help grow, engage and better understand our broad audience and base of partners. Learn more and apply here [[link removed]].

COMMENT 📢: Protect subsistence rights and speak out against House Joint Resolution 22 (HJR 22), which could amend the Alaska Constitution to allow the state to take over all subsistence hunting and fishing management. Send your message here [[link removed]].

GRANT OPPORTUNITY 💰: Alaska Conservation Foundation is now accepting grant applications for the Martha Levensaler Leadership Fund. This fund was created to honor Martha’s legacy and to benefit the people who are involved in improving conservation efforts in Alaska. To accomplish this, the Fund will provide funds for training, skill building and organization development. APPLICATIONS ARE DUE TODAY. Learn about eligibility and apply here. [[link removed]]

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This newsletter offers a concise, monthly compilation of essential news articles and trending insights sourced from prominent daily publications, trade journals, newsletters, and other reputable outlets. Click on the headlines to access the complete articles, with some requiring a subscription. While we provide valuable recaps and insights, please note that the articles and information presented are for informational purposes and may not necessarily reflect the perspective of Alaska Conservation Foundation.

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