The Alaska Department of Natural Resources received an unusually high number of comments in a recent public comment period, with residents supporting upgraded conservation measures for clean water and fish over rolling back water protections 99-to-one, according to a news release from Nunamta Aulukestai, Caretakers of Our Land, an advocacy group comprised of tribal corporations and tribal governments that oppose the development of the Pebble Project.
An analysis of comments from the DNR’s recent scoping period on water regulations showed that 1,242 of 1,249 total comments support upgraded conservation measures for fish and fish habitat. Roughly 87 percent of comments include support for keeping water in streams for fish, wildlife and habitat. Other recurring comments include requiring public notice and input before issuing water permits; prioritizing Alaskan user groups, individuals, fish and wildlife before issuing water-use permits; and requiring developers to prove their projects will not negatively impact fish and waters before the projects are permitted.
A small number of comments (seven in total) favored rolling back protections for Alaska waterways. Paid employees and contractors of industry groups submitted 100 percent of these comments.
Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the state Department of Natural Resources issued this press release. It was Nunamta Aulukestai, Caretakers of Our Land.
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