WHAT'S UP – April 23, 2008- Compiled Weekly by Peg Tileston
On behalf of the Alaska Women’s Environmental Network (AWEN), Alaska Center for the Environment (ACE), and Alaska Conservation Alliance (ACA)

WORKSHOPS, SEMINARS, TRAINING & STATEWIDE TELECONFERENCED EVENTS

April 25 & 26
GLENNALLEN - FIRE IN ALASKA will be held at the Prince William Sound Community College. One FREE continuing education credit is available. The workshop is a hands on, interactive, lab based course designed to help young people learn about fire ecology, fire behavior, and about living safely along the wildland urban interface. Participants have access to a trunk filled with posters, videos, and equipment to perform experiments. This exciting fire curriculum is being used by educators all over Alaska. Credit is FREE, and workshop fee is $20. The instructor will be Lilly Goodman-Allwright. For more information or to register, contact Lilly at lgoodman@mtaonline.net.

April 26
WASILLA - RENEWABLE ENERGY WORKSHOP: INTRODUCTION to RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS for your HOME or BUSINESS will be held from 9am to 4pm (with one hour break for lunch, noon to 1pm) at the Agate Inn. This exciting hands on 6 hour workshop is will provide valuable methods of saving money with energy efficiency, including conducting a hands-on mini-energy audit. In the afternoon session you will learn the basics of solar and wind technologies, learn to use the solar pathfinder, get your hands on a working grid-tied solar photovoltaic system, and a working solar thermal (hot water) system. You will also get a tour of the Agate Inn tracking PV system. There is free on-site parking, free coffee & tea, indoor classroom & outdoor solar workshop area. Cost: Before April 19, cost is $80 ($60 for full-time students); After April 19 cost is $100 ($80 for full-time students); - please sign up early before this workshop fills up! Lunch: Bring your own, or join our group delivery order (menus will be provided at the start of workshop, please note that lunch is not included in workshop fee). Instructors: ANDY BAKER, PE, Clean Energy Consultant; PHIL ST. JOHN, Small Wind System Installer; MARK MASTELLER, Director of Alaska Center For Appropriate Technology. To Register: Please visit www.yourcleanenergy.us or register by at 907-274-2007, or by mail: please provide your name, address, phone, email, and send it with payment to: YourCleanEnergy, 308 G Street #212, Anchorage AK 99501. Seating is limited to 20, please register early! For more information, email andybaker@yourcleanenergy.us.

April 29 - May 1
CORDOVA - The EXXON VALDEZ OIL SPILL TRUSTEE COUNCIL is sponsoring a HERRING WORKSHOP from 9am to 5pm.at the Cordova Public Library. For more information, contact 907-278-8012 or www.evostc.state.ak.us/Events.

May 2 & 3
MAT-SU - SPRING MAT SU TAPPING: A PROJECT WILD AND LEARNING TREE WORKSHOP is scheduled at Teeland Middle. These workshop is designed to help educators and youth leaders teach others about wildlife, forestry, and conservation. Project WILD and Learning Tree are filled with hands on activities for educators, scout leaders, camp counselors, and home schooling parents. These curricula use wildlife and the forests to teach concepts and skills in the core subject areas. Participants receive activity guides and a handbook that correlates activities to the Alaska Education Standards. The cost of the training is 30 dollars for three activity packed books and 69 dollars if UAA ED 580 credit is desired. To register, email Matt Weaver at Matt.weaver@alaska.gov or 269-8481.

May 6 & 10
ANCHORAGE - POLAR-PALOOZA teams up with two other nationally known conservation education programs, PROJECT WILD and PROJECT LEARNING TREE will be held from 6 to 9pm on the May 6th and 9am to 4:30pm on May 10 at the Anchorage Museum. Teachers and students will explore the many ways the rapidly changing Arctic and Antarctic affect the health and functioning of the entire Earth system, no matter where we live. Meet the scientists and hear from Arctic residents tell personal stories of life and research in Polar Regions, supported by dramatic video footage and Internet resources. Delve into the realm of ice physics, endangered species, and global changes. The Poles are changing faster than anywhere else on our entire world. Learn how these changes are directly affecting Alaska and native Alaskans and how we can work together towards solutions. The workshop is available for credit. While open to all educators, the content and activities are geared toward middle and high school students. Teachers must attend both sessions. Contact John Tyson, Project WILD Coordinator for registration and more information at 907-267-2216 or john.tyson@alaska.gov.

May 7
SEWARD - RESURRECTION BAY WATERSHED WORKSHOP - RESURRECTION BAY CONSERVATION ALLIANCE (RBCA) will host a one-day workshop, at UAA's Institute of Marine Science, K.M. Rae Bldg. Auditorium, 9am to 5pm. The mission of the Watershed Program is to protect and enhance the Resurrection Bay watershed through habitat assessment, monitoring, public education and advocacy of science-based resource management. Goals of this public workshop are to: 1) Assemble scientists, land managers, university researchers, and other specialists to provide presentations on the ecology and status of the Resurrection Bay watershed; 2) Hold a panel discussion with representatives from other Alaska watershed partnerships to discuss the value and successes of watershed-based conservation in coastal Alaskan communities; 3) Provide a forum for residents and agencies to consider innovative approaches for achieving a diverse economy and a healthy watershed, and 4) Build partners in the Resurrection Bay Watershed Program and give RBCA input on projects that will lead to improved watershed health while encouraging sustainable economic development. Please join us for an important day of information sharing and to initiate a long-term, science-based effort to protect the ecological and economic health of the Resurrection Bay watershed. For questions contact RBCA at 224-4621. For more information visit http://www.rbca-alaska.org or email Matt Gray at mgrayrbca@gmail.com.

May 9 - 11
CORDOVA - COPPER RIVER DELTA SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL, one of Alaska's premier birding events. Kenai Fjords Tours and Prince William Sound Glacier Cruises offer a special tour providing roundtrip boat transportation from Whittier to Cordova using one of their 95' custom sightseeing vessels. The Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival provides the ideal opportunity for bird watchers to be part of this epic migration. Many activities, workshops and community events are offered throughout the festival. Join us at the Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival for activities, workshops, and community events in this authentic Alaskan fishing community! For more information visit www.kenaifjords.com or www.cordovachamber.com

 May 9, 10 & 11
The 20TH ALASKA SEA KAYAK SYMPOSIUM - Information on Participant Tracks, Lectures, the Keynote Presentation, and registration can be found online at www.aksks.org. Aimed at the Beginner and Intermediate paddlers, the symposium offers a comprehensive introduction to the sport of sea kayaking. Participants receive 25 hours of instruction, including pool & lake sessions, the lecture series, and hands-on boat demonstrations. This year’s keynote speaker will be DENNIS EAGAN showing slide on his solo paddle between Southeast Alaska and Prince William Sound.

May 8 - 11
HOMER - The 16th ANNUAL KACHEMAK BAY SHOREBIRD FESTIVAL will be held. British author and birder, RICHARD CROSSLEY, will be the keynote speaker. From his travels around the world to time spent living in Cape May, Crossley will share lessons he learned while growing up in the wild British birding scene This year’s Festival theme is Shorebirds as International Ambassadors: Connecting Birds, Habitats and People. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced birder, or even the nonbirder in your group, you’ll enjoy this fun-for-the-entire-family weekend celebration. Lots of activities for the whole family. Complete Festival information is available at www.homeralaska.org/shorebird.htm or call 235-7740.

.May 8 - 10
GIRDWOOD - The first SPRING ALASKA DIALOGUE WE ARE ALASKANS - TODAY AND TOMORROW: CHALLENGES FACING EMERGING LEADERS will be held at the Alyeska Hotel and Resort. It is designed for current and emerging leaders interested in Alaska public policy issues and leadership development, and who have the ability to put aside special interests to work toward a common goal. Please contact Nils Andreassen at 907.351.4982 for more information or to find out how you can be involved in this dynamic process or go to http://www.institutenorth.org/servlet/content/alaska_dialogue.html.

May 8 & 10
FAIRBANKS - POLAR-PALOOZA teams up with two other nationally known conservation education programs, PROJECT WILD and PROJECT LEARNING TREE from 6 to 9pm on May 8 and from 9am to 4:30pm on May 10 at the Museum of the North. Teachers and students will explore the many ways the rapidly changing Arctic and Antarctic affect the health and functioning of the entire Earth system, no matter where we live. Meet the scientists and hear from Arctic residents tell personal stories of life and research in Polar Regions, supported by dramatic video footage and Internet resources. Delve into the realm of ice physics, endangered species, and global changes. The Poles are changing faster than anywhere else on our entire world. Learn how these changes are directly affecting Alaska and native Alaskans and how we can work together towards solutions. This workshop is available for credit. While open to all educators, the content and activities are geared toward middle and high school students. Teachers must attend both sessions. Contact John Tyson, Project WILD Coordinator for registration and more information at 907-267-2216 or john.tyson@alaska.gov.

**May 16 (Teleconference)
SNOWMOBILE TRAILS ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SnowTRAC ) will meet via teleconference from 2pm to 4pm, to discuss modifications to the 2008/2009 Snowmobile Trail Grant application. Depending on feedback from SnowTRAC applicants, nominations for the three vacant seats will also be made. The public is welcome to join us. Please contact Bill Luck at Bill.Luck@alaska.gov or 907-269-8699 if you would like to participate in this meeting

June 5 - 7
MCCARTHY - HISTORY OF MCCARTHY AND KENNECOTT at the Wrangell Mountains Center. This one-credit workshop for educators, guides, interpreters, and anyone interested in the local history will include a fun-filled two days learning about the history of the area from the mining days to the present. Speakers and instructors include National Park Service historians and local sourdoughs. Cost is $120 if you register by April 23, and $165 if you register after April 23. Cost includes dinner the first night and camping and food-storage facilities. Other lodging is available in the area. Partial scholarships are available. ED 580 Credit through Prince William Sound Community College is an additional $25. Last day to register is May 24. Contact Jessica Speed at the Wrangell Mountains Center wmc@alaska.net if you would like to register for this course or for more information.

June 7 - 9
MCCARTHY - CHANGING LANDSCAPES is a two-day intensive field-based course at the Wrangell Mountains Center. The course introduces the exciting and dynamic processes of glaciers, rivers, volcanoes, landslides and succession. The instructor is LILLY GOODMAN-ALLWRIGHT. Cost is $145 if you register by April 23, and $180 afterwards. Cost includes dinner the first night and camping and food-storage facilities. Other lodging is available in the area. Partial scholarships are available. ED 580 Credit through Prince William Sound Community College is an additional $25. Last day to register is May 15. Please contact Jessica Speed at the Wrangell Mountains Center wmc@alaska.net if you would like to register for the course or for more information.

June 11 -13
ANCHORAGE -The GRANT INSTITUTE'S GRANTS 101: PROFESSIONAL GRANT PROPOSAL WRITING WORKSHOP will be held from 8am to 5pm. The participants will receive certification in professional grant writing from the Institute. course is characterized by its ability to act as a thorough overview, introduction, and refresher at the same time. In this course, participants will learn the entire proposal writing process and complete the course with a solid understanding of not only the ideal proposal structure, but a holistic understanding of the essential factors, which determine whether or not a program gets funded. Through the completion of interactive exercises and activities, participants will complement expert lectures by putting proven techniques into practice. This course is designed for both the beginner looking for a thorough introduction and the intermediate looking for a refresher course that will strengthen their grant acquisition skills. Registration $597.00 tuition includes all materials and certificates. This class, simply put, is designed to get results by creating professional grant proposal writers. For more information call (888) 824 - 4424 or visit The Grant Institute at www.thegrantinstitute.com. To register, Send an e-mail with your name, organization, and basic contact information to info@thegrantinstitute.com.

June 18 - 22
SITKA - GIFTS of NATURE, GIFTS of CULTURE: WHO OWNS the COMMONS? The 24th Sitka Symposium faculty includes: WILLIAM deBUYS, professor of Documentary Studies at the College of Santa Fe; ALISON HAWTHORNE DEMING, author of three books of poems and three non-fiction books; VERNITA KATCHATAG HERDMAN, an Inupiaq from Unalakleet; and DON SNOW, Senior Lecturer of Environmental Humanities at Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA. The symposium will feature presentations, small group discussions, and readings exploring the remarkable features of the commons, privatization of the commonwealth, and innovative steps being taken to ensure that shared assets are held as our common wealth for generations to come. Enrollment, limited to 60 participants, is now open Registration fee: $350 by May 1, $375 after May 1. For more information and to register, contact 907-747-3794, island@ak.net or go to www.islandinstitutealaska.org.

GRANTS & AWARDS

More that $1 million is available for Alaska communities under the SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PROGRAM (SRTS). The program encourages children in kindergarten through eighth grade to walk or ride bikes to and from school by creating safer walking and biking routes. The SRTS programs are designed to promote and improve healthier lifestyles in children at early ages and decrease auto-related emissions near schools. They provide schools and communities to address planning, design and construction improvement near the schools. For more information about the program, go to www.dot.alaska.gov/saferoutes or contact Steve Soenksen at (907) 465-4069 or email srts@dot.state.ak.us.

DEADLINES

**April 24, 25, 26, May 1, 6 (Additional listings)
Deadline for comments of the following Multi-Agency (State and Federal) applications for HARDROCK MINING EXPLORATION in the following locations:

INNOKO MINING DISTRICT APMA A20085744 (4/24)
NOME MINING DISTRICT near the town of MARY'S IGLOO CRSA:APMA F20089315 (due 4/25)
GOODPASTER MINING DISTRICT near the town of DELTA JUNCTION APMA F20089883 (4/29)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of FOX APMA F20085980 (due 5/01)
DELTA RIVER MINING DISTRICT near the town of PAXON APMA F20089719 (due 5/01)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of FAIRBANKS APMA F20089744 (due 5/1)
EAGLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of EAGLE APMA F20089803 (due 5/01)
FAIRHAVEN & KOYUK MINING DISTRICTS near the town of CANDLE Northwest Arctic Borough: APMA F20089911 (due 5/1)
YENTNA MINING DISTRICT near TYONEK APMA A20083042 (due 5/6)
ALASKA PENINSULA MINING DISTRICT in the LAKE & PENINSULA BOROUGH APMA A20083046 (due 5/6)

Div. of Mining, Land & Water proposes to issue a MISCELLANEOUS LAND USE PERMIT for mining and/or exploration activity on state mining claims as well as reclamation approval on state or private lands. WINTER CROSS COUNTRY TRAVEL on state lands not within state mining claims may also be authorized. WATER RIGHTS or TEMPORARY WATER USE PERMITS may be issued and state land use beyond the mining claims will be adjudicated by DNR. Applications for mining-related activity within the Coastal Zone require a Consistency determination by the Division of Coastal and Ocean Management (DCOM) (See (http://notes4.state.ak.us/pn/pubnotic.nsf/PNByDeptActive?OpenView&Start=1&Count=30&Expand=12.4#12.4) for those projects that have not previously been found consistent with the Alaska Coastal Management Program (ACMP). Additional information may be found at the Alaska Coastal Management Program (ACMP) website at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/acmp/.
DNR authorizations include Alaska Coastal Zone Consistency, Water Use Permits, Miscellaneous Land Use Permits, Approved Plan of Operations, and Reclamation Plan of Approval for a Mining Operation. Comments about this activity will receive consideration even though this is a COURTESY NOTICE provided they are received within 14 days (21 days for locations within the Coastal Zone) from the posting date of this notice. Other State Agencies which use this application include the Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Fish and Game (ADF&G) and Revenue (DOA). Federal Agencies include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) also reviews this application. These agencies adjudicate this application for the permits they require for mining related activities. Their adjudication may include additional separate notice and there is the opportunity to comment on the same activity to each of the agencies. Mining Fact Sheets about the Agencies which receive the application can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/factsht/mine_fs/apmathru.pdf and http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/factsht/mine_fs/fed_permits.pdf. A more detailed discussion of the agencies that use this application is given in the application itself http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/forms/08apma/placer.pdf . For more information or to submit comments, contact Jack Kerin by phone at (907) 451-2736, by fax at 451-2703, by email at jack.kerin@alaska.gov, Linda Books by phone (907) 269-8647, by fax at 269-8949, by email at linda.books@alaska.gov for Southcentral or Southeast Regions.

**April 29, May 1, 2, 6 (Additional listings)
Deadline for comments of the following MULTI-AGENCY (STATE AND FEDERAL) APPLICATIONS for PLACER MINING in the following locations:

NOME MINING DISTRICT near the town of NOME CRSA:APMA F20089703 (due 4/29)
FORTY MILE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CHICKEN APMA F20084399, APMA F20085954, APMA F20089058, APMA F20089322, APMA F20089811, APMA F20089900 (4/29)
KOYUKUK MINING DISTRICT near the town of WISEMAN APMA F20089321,
APMA F20089323, APMA F20089768, APMA F20089898, APMA F20089886 (due 4/29)
HOT SPRINGS MINING DISTRICT near the town of MANLEY APMA F20086872 (due 4/29)
BONNIFIELD MINING DISTRICT near the town of FAIRBANKS APMA F20087042 (due 4/29)
FORTYMILE MINING DISTRICT near the town of BOUNDARY APMA F20085838, APMA F20085883, APMA F20087231, APMA F20089789 (due 4/29)
CIRCLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CIRCLE HOT SPRINGS APMA F20088875 (due 4/25)
CHANDALAR MINING DISTRICT near the town of CHANDALAR LAKE APMA F20089036 (DUE 4/29)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of FAIRBANKS APMA F20089411, APMA F20089411 (due 4/29)
EAGLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of EAGLE APMA F20087284 (due 4/29)
BONNIFIELD MINING DISTRICT near the town of HEALY APMA F20087469 (due 4/29)
CIRCLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CENTRAL APMA F20085934, APMA F20087097, APMA F20089815 (due 4/29)
KOYUKUK MINING DISTRICT near the town of COLD FOOT APMA F20089844, APMA F20089904 (due 4/29)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of CHENA HOT SPRINGS APMA F20089899 (4/29)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of ESTER APMA F20085913 (due 5/01)
HOT SPRINGS MINING DISTRICT near the town of TOFTY APMA F20085939 (due 5/01)
FORTY MILE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CHICKEN APMA F20085973, APMA F20089671 (due 5/01)
CIRCLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CIRCLE HOT SPRINGS APMA F20085997, APMA F20087474, APMA F20089025 (due 5/01)
CIRCLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CENTRAL APMA F20085998 (due 5/01)
KOYUKUK MINING DISTRICT near the town of WISEMAN APMA F20086859, APMA F20085964, APMA F20089858 (due 5/01)
DELTA RIVER MINING DISTRICT near the town of PAXON APMA F20087311 (due 5/01)
FORTY MILE MINING DISTRICT near the town of BOUNDARY APMA F20087497 (due 5/01)
HOT SPRINGS MINING DISTRICT near the town of EUREKA APMA F20089062 (due 5/01)
BONNIFIELD MINING DISTRICT near the town of FERRY APMA F20089607 (due 5/01)
FAIRBANKS MINING DISTRICT near the town of BIG DELTA APMA F20089730 (due 5/01)
EAGLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of EAGLE APMA F20089803 (due 5/01)
MELOZITNA MINING DISTRICT near the town of TANANA APMA F20089901 (due 5/1)
CHANDALAR MINING DISTRICT near the town of WISEMAN APMA F20087348 (due 5/2)
HOT SPRINGS MINING DISTRICT near the town of MANLEY HOT SPRINGS APMA F20089484 (due 5/2)
NOME MINING DISTRICT near the town of NOME APMA F20089893 (due 5/2)
YENTNA MINING DISTRICT near TALKEETNA APMA A20083045, APMA A20083047, APMA A20086348 (due 5/6)
FORTYMILE MINING DISTRICT near the town of BOUNDARY APMA F20085923 (due 5/6)
CIRCLE MINING DISTRICT near the town of CIRCLE HOT SPRINGS APMA F20087289 (due 5/6/)
HUGHES MINING DISTRICT near the town of HUGHES APMA F20089902 (due 5/6)
The Mining Section of the Div. of Mining, Land & Water proposes to issue a MISCELLANEOUS LAND USE PERMIT for MINING and/or EXPLORATION ACTIVITY on state mining claims as well as reclamation approval on state or private lands. WINTER CROSS COUNTRY TRAVEL on state lands not within state mining claims may also be authorized. WATER RIGHTS or TEMPORARY WATER USE PERMITS may be issued and state land use beyond the mining claims will be adjudicated by DNR. Applications for mining-related activity within the Coastal Zone require a Consistency determination by the Division of Coastal and Ocean Management (DCOM). (See http://notes4.state.ak.us/pn/pubnotic.nsf/PNByDeptActive?OpenView&Start=1&Count=30&Expand=12.4#12.4 of this web site for those projects that have not previously been found consistent with the Alaska Coastal Management Program (ACMP). Additional information may be found at the Alaska Coastal Management Program (ACMP) website at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/acmp/ since the proposed activity does not include the disposal of a state interest and the authorization is a revocable permit. Your comments about this activity will receive consideration even though this is a courtesy notice provided they are received within 14 days (21 days for locations within the Coastal Zone) from the posting date of this notice. Other State Agencies which use this application include the Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Fish and Game (ADF&G) and Revenue (DOA). Federal Agencies include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) also reviews this application. These agencies adjudicate this application for the permits they require for mining related activities. Their adjudication may include additional separate notice and there is the opportunity to comment on the same activity to each of the agencies. Mining Fact Sheets about the Agencies which receive the application can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/factsht/mine_fs/apmathru.pdf and http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/factsht/mine_fs/fed_permits.pdf. A more detailed discussion of the agencies that use this application is given in the application itself http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/forms/08apma/placer.pdf. For more information or to submit comments, contact Jack Kerin by phone at (907) 451-2736, by fax at 451-2703, by email at jack.kerin@alaska.gov for the Northern Region and Linda Books by phone (907) 269-8647, by fax at 269-8949, by email at linda.books@alaska.gov. for the Southcentral or Southeast Region.

April 28
DENALI NATIONAL PARK - Comments are due on proposal to REPLACE FRONT COUNTRY WASTEWATER FACILITY and COLLECTION SYSTEM REHABILITATION. The proposed action would replace the existing wastewater treatment lagoon and percolation pond with a new dual power multi-cell treatment system with effluent outfall to the Nenana River. The groundwater aquifer below the existing percolation pond has high concentrations of nitrates and is out of compliance with clean water regulations. Five alternatives are presented in the EA: a No Action alternative, the proposed action, and three other treatment systems with different effluent discharge scenarios. For more information, go to http://parkplanning.nps.gov/document.cfm?parkId=9&projectId=18289&documentID=22607.

April 28
The Department of Natural Resources, Division of Coastal and Ocean Management (DCOM) announces a 10 DAY PUBLIC REVIEW for the DRAFT COASTAL AND ESTUARINE LAND CONSERVATION PROGRAM (CELCP) PLAN. The CELCP Plan can be viewed at www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us. Send comments to Gina Shirey-Potts at gina.shirey-potts@alaska.gov or to PO Box 111030, Juneau, AK 99811-1030.

April 29
Deadline for comments on the call for new information concerning the BEAUFORT SEA AREAWIDE 2008 LEASE SALE on state acreage. The original Beaufort Sea Areawide final best interest finding was issued on July 15, 1999. A supplement to this finding was issued in August 2000. These documents and a map of the lease sale area are available at www.dog.dnr.state.ak.us. ADNR will either issue a supplement to the finding or a decision of no substantial new information for this sale. Mitigation measures developed in the first Beaufort Sea Areawide best interest findings will be carried on leases sold during the 10-year life of the findings unless, as a result of substantial new information, ADNR deems it necessary to change or add measures through a supplement to the finding. A new coastal management consistency review is done whenever the commissioner determines that new information or conditions suggest the proposed lease sale may no longer be consistent with ACMP standards. DO&G is requesting new information concerning: 1):fish and wildlife species and their habitats in the area; 2) current and projected uses in the area, including uses and value of fish and wildlife such as subsistence and recreation; 3) potential geophysical hazards within the proposed sale area; 4) reasonably foreseeable cumulative effects of exploration, development, production, and transportation for oil and gas on the sale area, including effects on subsistence uses, fish and wildlife habitat and populations and their uses, and historic and cultural resources; 5) lease stipulations and mitigation measures, including any measures to prevent and mitigate releases of oil and hazardous substances, to be included in the leases, and a discussion of the protections offered by these measures; 6) reasonably foreseeable fiscal effects of the lease sale and the subsequent activity on the state and affected municipalities and communities, including the explicit and implicit subsides associated with the lease sale, if any; 7) air and water quality; and 8) reasonably foreseeable effects of exploration, development, production, and transportation involving oil and gas on municipalities and communities within or adjacent to the lease sale area. The Beaufort Sea Areawide sale area encompasses a gross area of approximately 2 million acres of state tide and submerged lands lying between the US/Canada border and Point Barrow and includes some uplands. The sale area is divided into 516 tracts. Only selected tracts of which the state owns all or part of the mineral estate may be offered for leasing. Acreage not owned by the state, already subject to an oil and gas lease, clouded by title claims, or withdrawn by court order will be excluded from the sale. Only those lands free and unencumbered will be included in any lease issued. The Beaufort Sea Areawide Oil and Gas Lease Sale best interest findings and supplements are available on DOG's website at: http://www.dog.dnr.state.ak.us/oil/products/publications/beaufortsea/beaufortsea.htm . For more information or to submit new information, contact Greg Curney by Fax at 907-269-8943 or e-mail at greg.curney@alaska.gov.

April 30
Comments are due on the proposed MINERAL EXPLORATION near SQUIRREL & OMAR RIVERS by Nova Gold Resources Inc. The Baird Project is for drilling and sampling on Alaska State mining claims located approximately 100 kilometers northeast of Kotzebue. The project is a helicopter supported mineral exploration program. Modifications are proposed to this previously reviewed mineral exploration project. Proposal includes adding 12 drill holes, and extending depth of drill holes from 500 to 2000 feet. An expansion of the camp is proposed, as is the addition of two existing airstrips. Placement of fuel bladders and an increase in water use from anadromous and resident fish streams are also being reviewed. Review Documents are available at ftp://ftp.dnr.state.ak.us/dcom/BairdExploration. This project is being reviewed for consistency with the Alaska Coastal Management Program. Comments about inconsistency must identify the relevant enforceable policy and explain how the project is not consistent with that policy. For more information or to submit comments, contact Melinda O'Donnell, Project Review Coordinator, at 907-269-7480, Fax: 907-269-3981, or e mail: Melinda.ODonnell@alaska.gov. For information concerning the Coastal Management Program, go to http://www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us/.

April 30
Deadline for scoping comments requested in preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (OEIS) to evaluate the potential environmental effects of conducting NAVY TRAINING in and AROUND the GULF OF ALASKA (GOA), including participation in large-scale Joint exercises, to support Fleet training exercise requirements. The Navy will invite the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service to be cooperating agencies in preparation of this EIS/OEIS. The proposed EIS/OEIS analyzes potential environmental effects of Navy training activities that will take place in and around the Gulf of Alaska and those aircraft events that originate in the maritime exercise area (MEA) and extend over established inland Alaska military operating areas. Navy training activities primarily take place in, or originate from, the MEA. The MEA provides approximately 42,000 nm\2\ (144,056 km\2\) of air and surface/subsurface ocean operating area and overlying airspace. The MEA is a polygon that is oriented from northwest to southeast, approximately 300 nm in length by 150 nm in width, situated south of Prince William Sound and east of Kodiak Island, Alaska. The EIS/OEIS study area includes Gulf of Alaska ocean area within approximately 200 km from the MEA and the waters within this boundary up to the coastline. Military operations also occur over established land-based Military Operating Areas maintained by the Air Force in Alaska. Comments may be sent to: Mrs. Amy Burt, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, 1101 Tautog Circle, Suite 203, Silverdale, Washington 98315-1101, Attn: GOA Navy Training Activities EIS/OEIS Project Manager, Code EV1.AB. Comments can also be submitted via the EIS/OEIS Web page located at http://www.GulfofAlaskaNavyEIS.com. To see the Federal Register announcement, go to http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/E8-5316.htm.

May 1
Deadline for applications to serve on the ALASKA COMMUNITY FOREST COUNCIL. The council is a nonprofit organization that works to improve Alaskans’ quality of life by expanding and caring for urban and community forests. The council promotes the management of trees and forests within communities to maximize their benefits to residents and visitors. The council advises the Division of Forestry on developing and supporting local community forestry programs and works with the division to foster partnerships between government agencies, businesses, and volunteers. Members support tree planting and care in communities across the state and review community forestry grant proposals. Seven of the council’s 15 seats will become open at the end of June. The seats are for: an ARBORIST, a CONSTRUCTION/RIGHT-OF-WAY PERSON, a SMALL COMMUNITY SERVICE PERSON, a COMMUNITY FORESTRY OR BEAUTIFICATION PERSON, an INDUSTRY OR BUSINESS PERSON and TWO MEMBERS-AT-LARGE. Council members must be able to attend all-day meetings four times each year, usually in Anchorage. Members are asked to serve on a working committee, help handle the normal business responsibilities of a nonprofit, and support the care of trees and forests in the towns where they live. Members attend orientation before the first meeting and are provided educational opportunities and hands-on training. Council members receive no compensation except reimbursement of travel expenses. Applications and information about the council and the Community Forestry Program are available at http://forestry.alaska.gov/community/council.htm.. For more information, contact Stephen Nickel at 269-8466 or stephen.nickel@alaska.gov. New appointees will be notified in late May and the three-year terms begin on July 1, 2008.

May 1
Comments are due on the Public Review Draft (PRD) of the KNIK RIVER PUBLIC USE AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN. The PRD is available at http://www.knikriver.alaska.gov/. For information related to the planning process please contact Brandon McCutcheon, Project Manager, at knikriverpua@alaska.gov or call 907-334-2551.

May 1
Deadline for applications for the ALASKA COMMUNITY FOREST COUNCIL for new members. The council is a nonprofit organization that works to improve Alaskans' quality of life by expanding and caring for urban and community forests. The council promotes the management of trees and forests within communities to maximize their benefits to residents and visitors. The council advises the Division of Forestry on developing and supporting local community forestry programs and works with the division to foster partnerships between government agencies, businesses, and volunteers. Members support tree planting and care in communities across the state and review community forestry grant proposals. Seven of the council's 15 seats will become open at the end of June. The seats are for: an arborist, a construction/right-of-way person, a small community service person, a community forestry or beautification person, an industry or business person and two members-at-large. Council members must be able to attend all-day meetings four times each year, usually in Anchorage. Members are asked to serve on a working committee, help handle the normal business responsibilities of a nonprofit, and support the care of trees and forests in the towns where they live. Members attend orientation before the first meeting and are provided educational opportunities and hands-on training. Council members receive no compensation except reimbursement of travel expenses. For applications and information about the council and the Community Forestry Program go to http://forestry.alaska.gov/pdfs/08ACFCApplication.pdf or call the Community Forestry Office in Anchorage at 269-8466 or e-mailstephen.nickel@alaska.gov. New appointees will be notified in late May and the three-year terms begin on July 1, 2008.

May 2
Comments are due on proposal to renew an AIR QUALITY AIR CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT for the GEORGE SULLIVAN GENERATION PLANT TWO in Anchorage. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 79 tons of Particulate Matter; 3811 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 42.1 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 976 tons of Carbon Monoxide, and 25.5 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total emissions of regulated air pollutants is 4,934 tons per year. Copy of the draft permit and statement of Basis are available at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm.

**May 2
Deadline for comments are due on the KNIK RIVER PUBLIC USE AREA DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN. The goal of the review has been to provide comments and recommendations to ensure protections for the wildlife and critical habitat, and safeguard the rights of those who prefer to enjoy the area and trails without the aid of a motorized vehicle. The plan is available at www.knikriver.alaska.gov.An online public comment form is available at www.knikriver.alaska.gov/comments/index.cfm.

May 3
Deadline for comments on the request for renewal of an AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT of the George M. Sullivan Generation Plant Two in Anchorage. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed 79.0 tons of Particulate Matter-10 Microns, 3811 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 42.1 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 976 tons of Carbon Monoxide, and 25.5 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total emissions of regulated air pollutants is 4,934 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 Debra Dalcher at debra.dalcher@alaska.gov.

May 5
JUNEAU - Comments are due on the application for an AIR QUALITY CONTROL OPERATING PERMIT for GREEN’S CREEK MINE emissions from Diesel generators, a turbine generator, diesel-driven equipment associated with subsurface mining, ball and sag mill with crushers. The potential annual emissions of regulated air pollutants at the source will not exceed: 30.8 tons of Particulate Matter, 563.8 tons of Nitrogen Oxides, 43.5 tons of Sulfur Dioxide, 181.4 tons of Carbon Monoxide, and 37.7 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds. The total emissions of regulated air pollutants is 857.2 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 Debra Dalcher at debra.dalcher@alaska.gov.

May 5
Deadline for comments on the proposal to CONVEY APPROXIMATELY 14 ACRES of lands in the MENDENHALL WESTLANDS STATE GAME REFUGE from DNR and ADFG to the Juneau International Airport/city & Borough of Juneau (DBJ) to allow expansion of the runway areas so it meets FAA’s required safety areas. Two parcels will be conveyed; one is about 2 acres located at the east end of the runway, the second is about 12 acres located at the west end. The Refuge Plan recognizes CBJ may acquire refuge lands for airpost expansion, but a requirement is that impacts must be mitigated. A mitigation plan has identified and upon approval of the project will allocate funds to purchase replacement land equivalent to the functional capacity unit acreage that is conveyed. Both DNR and ADFG must agree to accept land acquired for refuge mitigation. The East End Runway Sough will be filled to the eastern runway safety area, and a new slough will be constructed that will be similar to the existing slough and maintain hydrologic connection with Fritz Cove. To see a copy of the information, contact the Div. Of Mining, Land & Water at 400 Willoughby Ave. PO Box 11020, Juneau 99811-1020.For more information or to submit comments, contact Jim Anderson at 907-465-3427 or Tom Schumacher at 907-465-4346 or tom.schumacher@alaka.gov.

May 10
KOTZEBUE Comments are due on the proposed SHORE AVENUE RECONSTRUCTION. The project subject to this consistency review is the RECONSTRUCTION OF SHORE AVENUE from LAKE STREET to the CROWLEY MARINE DOCK. Reconstruction will include paving and widening Shore Avenue, while also adding sidewalks, a bike path, parking areas, curbs and gutters, and an erosion protection revetment on the seaside. A complete copy of the project packet is available at ftp://ftp.dnr.state.ak.us/dcom/ADOTPF_KotzebueShoreReconstruction The project is being reviewed for consistency with the Alaska Coastal Management Program. Comments about inconsistency must identify the relevant enforceable policy and explain how the project is not consistent with that policy. For more information or to submit comments, contact Jim Renkert, Project Review Coordinator, Alaska Coastal Management Program, at 907-269-0029, Fax: 907-269-3981or email jim.renkert@alaska.gov. For information concerning the Coastal Management Program, go to http://www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us/

**May 12
Comments are due on proposal to renew the AIR QUALITY OPERATING PERMIT for emission units at the KUPARUK SEAWATER TREATMENT PLANT operated by ConocoPhillips Alaska Inc. The stationary source processes raw seawater for use in water flooding projects throughout the Kuparuk field. The potential annual emissions of regulated air contaminants at the source will not exceed: 20 tons of Particulate Matter (PM-10), 292 tons of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), 50 tons of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), 157 tons of Carbon Monoxide (CO), and 8 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). The total emissions of regulated air contaminants are 527 tons per year. The draft renewal Operating Permit and Statement of Basis are also available at ADEC’s website at: http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or to submit comments, contact Ms. Debra Dalcher, Operating Permits Supervisor ADEC at 619 E. Ship Creek, Suite 249, Anchorage, AK 99501

**May 14
Deadline for comments on proposed regulations to amend the SUBSISTENCE FISHERY RULES for PACIFIC HALIBUT in WATERS in and OFF ALASKA. These regulations are necessary to address subsistence halibut management concerns in densely populated areas. This action is intended to support the conservation and management provisions of the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982. To see the Federal Register notice, go to http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/prules/73fr20008.pdf. Submit all electronic public comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal website at http://www.regulations.gov. For further information contact: Becky Carls, 907–5867228 or becky.carls@noaa.gov , or Peggy Murphy, 907–586–7228 or peggy.murphy@noaa.gov. All comments received are a part of the public record and will be posted to http://www.regulations.gov without change.

**May 16
Deadline for nominations for the SNOWMOBILE TRAILS ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SnowTRAC) for vacancy representing Anchorage, Copper River Basin / Mat-Su, and Kenai /Valdez / Prince William Sound. Duties of board members include assisting the Division by providing a broad spectrum of citizen input on evaluating grant proposals and making funding recommendations for the Snowmobile Trails Program. DPOR is seeking commitment from individuals with special knowledge, experience, and interest in snowmobile recreation and grant-funded programs. Once appointed, each position shall last for a term of three years. If you would like to be considered for appointment on SnowTRAC, please submit a letter of interest that describes your professional background and recreational snowmobile interests. A current resume is required and replaces the need for completing an application. All resumes and letters of interest should be submitted to Bill Luck, the State Trails Coordinator, via email at Bill.Luck@alaska.gov, or Faxed to 907-269-8907. For additional information regarding SnowTRAC or the Snowmobile Trails Program, contact Bill Luck at Bill.Luck@alaska.gov or 907-269-8699.

EVENTS & MEETINGS \ANCHORAGE - EAGLE RIVER & GIRDWOOD

**April 24
STEEP, NOT CHEAP:TWO SOUTHEAST ALASKA CLIMBERS TRAVEL THE PROPOSED JUNEAU ROAD ROUTE will be shown from 7:30 to 9pm at the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center (121 West 7th Avenue). See video of their journey, a slide-show, and participate in a follow-up discussion on this expensive project’s cost implications for roads and other transportation projects in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Borough. For more information, contact the Alaska Transportation Priorities Project at 929-9372, fax: 907 929-1562 or lois@aktransportation.org or go to www.aktransportation.org.

April 24
Open House Workshop and Group Discussions will be held from 5:30 to 9pm, with a presentation at 8, at Goldenview Middle school Cafeteria to discuss the HILLSIDE DISTRICT PLAN. The focus of the workshops will be to review the Framework Plan, which presents alternative solutions for issues that will be addressed by the Hillside Distric Plan. For a copy of the Framework Plan or more information email outreach@agnewbeck.com or call 907-222-5424 or go to www.hillsidedistrictplan.com.

April 24
The KNIK ARM BRIDGE and TOLL AUTHORITY (KABATA) will hold a Board of Directors meeting at 1:30pm in Suite 1860 of the Atwood Building, 550 West 7th Avenue. This is an open meeting and the public is invited to attend. For more information, contact KABATA office at (907) 269-6698 or go to http://www.knikarmbridge.com/documents/BasicAgenda042408Anchorage.pdf .

April 24
AWEN presents a showing of THE END OF SUBURBIA at 7pm at the Taproot Care, 1330 Huffman Rd. This documentary investigates the sustainability of suburban sprawl as global demand for fossil fuels begins to outstrip supply. The film explores American trends in suburban development and impacts of dwindling oil supplies on the suburban way of life. Free

April 24
CHUGACH ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION 58TH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING at Egan Center. Registration begins at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm. If you are a member of CEA and need a replacement ballot, call 566-1700.

**April 24 (Corrected information)
The END of SUBURBIA will be shown at Taproot, Café, 1330 Huffman Rd. This event is Free, sponsored by AWEN (AK Women’s Environmental Network). For more information, contact awenalaska@gmail.com.

**April 28
PROJECTS AND PLANS FAIR will be held at Wendler Middle School, 2905 Lake Otis Parkway, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Find out what the future holds for Anchorage from Eklutna to Girdwood--at this roundup of important city and state road and planning projects at ONE location on ONE night. Come and influence that future with your comments and questions. Remember, we all have a stake in a better Anchorage. Projects Represented: 1) Anchorage Bicycle Plan – pedal your way to work and play; 2) Seward Highway to Glenn Highway Connection; 3) 2008 Downtown Construction – a transformation in the works; 4) Cyber Crimes Prevention – how to keep your kids safe; and many others… For more information, contact Teri Albrecht, MOA Project Management & Engineering, Phone: 343-8142, Email: AlbrechtTL@muni.org.

**April 28
ALASKA BOATING SAFETY ADVISORY COUNCIL will meet beginning at 10am in Suite 1270, Atwood Building, 550 W. 7th Ave. This meeting is open to the public. For more information, contact Mary Kay Ryckman at (907) 269-8706 or email marykay.ryckman@alaska.gov.

April 28
Public meeting will be held from 5:30 to 8pm at Wendler Middle School to discuss the ANCHORAGE BIKE PLAN at the MAYOR’S 2008 PROJECTS AND PLANS FAIR. The Anchorage Bicycle Plan project team and the Bike Focus Group have been hard at work over the winter, sifting through comments from the October 2007 meetings to develop a Draft Bicycle Network for Anchorage and are want to have input about this Draft Bicycle Network. For more information, contact Lori Schanche, Non-Motorized Transportation Coordinator, at 343-8368, e-mail SchancheLE@muni.org or go to www.muni.org/transplan/non-motorized.cfm.

**April 29
Public hearing will be held on the PROPOSED RECYCLING PLAN before the Anchorage Assembly at the Loussac Library. Hearings begin at 6pm. Ordinance AO 2008-52(s) establishes variable garbage collection rates for automated collection routes. Ordinance AO 2008-62 provides for a surcharge to support community recycling initiatives and adds surcharge.

April 29 - May 1
The FEDERAL SUBSISTENCE BOARD will meet to consider changes to Federal subsistence hunting and trapping regulations. The meeting will be held at the Coast International Inn, 3450 Aviation Avenue, Anchorage and will begin at 8:30 a.m. daily. The Board will consider more than 50 proposals to change subsistence hunting and trapping regulations on Federal public lands throughout Alaska. The new regulations will be effective July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2010. Meeting materials can be found on the Federal Subsistence Management Program website, http://alaska.fws.gov/asm/home.html, under “Federal Subsistence Board – Meeting Materials.” The public is welcome at this meeting. For more information, contact the Office of Subsistence Management at (800) 478-1456 or (907) 786-3888 or by e-mail at subsistence@fws.gov. FEDERAL SUBSISTENCE BOARD will meet beginning at 8:30am daily at the Coast International Inn to consider proposed changes to subsistence hunting and trapping regulations. For more information, call the Office of Subsistence Management at 800-478-1456 or 907-786-3888 or go to http://alaska.fws.gov/asm/home.html.

**April 30
INTEGRATING SOLAR FEATURES INTO YOUR ALASKA HOME will be taught by Richard Seifert, Energy & Housing Specialist from 5:30 to 9:30p.m at the UAF Cooperating Extension Service Office, Suite 130, 2221 E. Northern Lights Blvd. $10.00 for Solar Design Manual. Pre-registration is required. Please call 786-6300 to reserve a seat.

April 30
Public Meeting will be held from 6 to 8pm at South Anchorage High School (13400 Elmore Road) to discuss the SOUTH ANCHORAGE WATER IMPROVEMENTS PROJECTS (SAWIP). To best serve the water supply needs of existing South Anchorage customers within AWWU’s certificated water distribution area, the 2005 Anchorage Water Master Plan recommended the addition of two new transmission mains and two new reservoirs in South Anchorage. These projects, referred to collectively as the South Anchorage Water Improvements Projects (SAWIP), will enable AWWU to provide reliable, quality water service to South Anchorage for years to come. AWWU, working with a citizen SAWIP advisory group that represents community councils and neighborhood organizations in the project area, is in the process of deciding locations for the projects. The public is invited to a public open house to view the advisory group's recommendations, see AWWU's preliminary plans for design and construction, and provide feedback to the project team. Additional information is available on the projects at www.awwu.biz/SAWIP or by calling 907-644-2075.

April 30
Public briefing will be held from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Alaska Wild Berry Theater, 5225 Juneau St. on the RISK ASSESSMENT ON OIL & GAS INFRASTRUCTURE (ARA). The risk assessment will analyze the likelihood and consequences of potential failures in Alaska's oil and gas infrastructure. This risk assessment will identify and prioritize potential failures that could impact the reliability of the system, or its ability to sustain production without unplanned interruptions, as well as environment, and public safety. The risk assessment will conclude with a list of recommended mitigation measures based on the risks identified. Because of the inherent complexities and variations within Alaska’s oil and gas infrastructure, a “system of systems” approach is proposed to identify interrelationships between the components of the overall system. Incorporating input from state and federal agencies and the public, the analysis will identify infrastructure failures that would create unacceptable consequences for the state’s economy or environment, then recommend improvements to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of such events. NASA uses a similar approach to mitigate accident risks within the space shuttle project. For more information, go to http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/ipp/ara/documents.htm or contact Sonja Love-Hestnes at sonja.love-hestnes@alaska.gov or (907) 269-3090.

April 30
Open House will be held from 6 to 8pm at the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum, 4721 Aircraft Dr., proposal to design a LONG TERM SOLUTION for EROSION CONTROL at the LAKE HOOD SEAPLANE BASE. DOT&PF will be conducting engineering and environmental studies to determine the project’s environmental effects and must prepare and Environmental Assessment (EA). For more information, contact Morgan Merritt, Project Manager at 269-0614 or Tricia Waggoner, USKH Inc. at 257-7527. Deadline for comments is May 19. Send comments to Jerry O. Ruehle, Environmental Coordinator, ADOT&PF, P.O. Box 196900, Anchorage, AK 99519-6900. For more information, contact Morgan Merritt at 269-0624 or Tricia Waggoner at 257-7527.

**April 30
Public briefing will be held from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Wildberry Theater, 5225 Juneau St to discuss the upcoming ALASKA OIL and GAS INFRASTRUCTURE RISK ASSESSMENT. The purpose of this meeting is to brief the public on the project background, funding, request for proposals (RFP), and timeline. In addition to brief presentations on these topics, there will be discussion of the role of public involvement in the project. This is an initial briefing prior to the start of the project. The services of a risk assessment contractor are being procured. This contractor will propose a detailed project design, which will then be shared widely in a series of public briefings held around the state. Attendees are encouraged to review the project website at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/ipp/ara/index.htm prior to the meeting. This website will be updated throughout the project.

**May 1
Learn How to design a RAIN GARDEN RAIN GARDEN TRAINING will be held from 11am to 12pm in the Municipality of Anchorage Main Training Room, Public Works Building, 4700 Elmore Road. The Municipality of Anchorage is offering a cost share program for residents installing rain gardens on their property. Part of this program is the “certification” of landscapers by the MOA to install rain Gardens. Only “certified” landscaper costs will be eligible for the cost share program. Landscapers will be certified by the MOA after they attend a training like the one offered below. More information on the program can be found at www.anchorageraingardens.com. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lindsey Kendall at 644-2004 or email lindsey.kendall@hdrinc.com.

**May 3
SOLAR PV AND SOLAR HOT WATER FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS - INTERMEDIATE LEVEL WORKSHOP will be held from 9am to 4pm (with one hour break for lunch, noon to 1pm) at the Anchorage Unitarian Fellowship, 3210 Turnagain St. Free on-site parking, free coffee & tea, indoor classroom & outdoor solar workshop area..In the morning you will learn what new solar pv technologies are available in Alaska and how to size a pv array for on-grid or off-grid installation. In the afternoon session you will learn what new solar thermal technologies are available in Alaska (flat plate and evacuated tubes), and how to size a basic residential system. The basics of financial evaluation of a solar pv and solar thermal system will be covered. The last portion of the class will be outside and will include a hands on demonstration of a grid tie solar pv system, flat plate collector, and an evacuated tube solar thermal system. All who attend will receive a 10% discount on new renewable energy books on sale at the workshop. Cost: $60 for full-time students;$80 for working folks and others. Lunch: Bring your own, or join our group delivery order from the Organic Oasis (menus will be provided at the start of workshop, please note that lunch is not included in workshop fee). Instructors: ANDY BAKER, Independent Clean Energy Consultant. To Register: Call 907-274-2007, or by mail: please provide your name, address, phone, email, and send it with payment to: YourCleanEnergy, 308 G Street #212, Anchorage AK 99501. Seating is limited to 20, register early. All payments must be made in full in advance. Please make checks payable to YourCleanEnergy; visa or mc credit cards also accepted. If a workshop is sold out, you can add your name to a waiting list and you will be contacted immediately should a space become available. For more information, call 274-2007, 907-350-2084, or go to http://www.yourcleanenergy.us.

May 5
CHUGIAK - Public hearing will be held at the PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION at 6pm in the Assembly Chambers, Loussac Library on a conditional use permit for a NATURAL RESOURCE EXTRACTION (gravel) in the I-1SL (light industrial with special limitations) zoning district located east of Old Glenn Highway at the Moose Horn Business Park. For more information, contact Tim Potter at tpotter@dowl.com, 907-562-2000 or FAX: 907-563-3953.

**May 5 & 7
Three public hearings will be held to discuss PROPOSED CHANGES to PEOPLE MOVER and AnchorageRIDES, PEOPLE MOVER ROUTE ANALYSIS & FIVE-YEAR PLAN and PEOPLE MOVER PROGRAM of PROJECTS.
May 5 - EAGLE RIVER - 5 to 7pm with presentation at 5:15 at Eagle River Community Meeting Room (11901 Business Blvd. Above Garcia’s)
May 7 - Two meetings - both held in the Mayor’s Conference Room, City Hall 830
    11:30am to 1pm, with presentation at 11:45am.
     4:30 to 6pm , with presentation at 4:45
For more information, go to www.peoplemover.org.

May 6
The Assembly is scheduled to begin public hearings on Chapters 4, 5, and 6 of TITLE 21 - ZONING DISTRICTS beginning at 6pm.

May 7
Public meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm Atwood Building, 550 W 7th Ave, Suite 240on the DRAFT NORTHWEST AREA PLAN (NWAP) designating land use and directing management of 19 million acres of state land and land selections in the area from Pont Lay to Saint Michael in northwest Alaska. The original Northwest Area Plan was adopted in 1989 and since then the state has selected and topfiled about 5 million acres of land. These additional lands are scattered throughout the Lisburne and Seward peninsulas, but some of the larger blocks are in the Baird Mountains between the Noatak and Kobuk drainages, in the Selawik Hills east of Buckland, in the Darby Mountains east of Council, and in the Kigluaik Mountains north of Nome. This plan revision gives both general management guidelines describing how state land may be used as well as management intent for each specific parcel of state land. It covers nearly 8 million acres of state-owned uplands, over 5 million acres of state-selected lands, and over 5 million acres of tidelands. While most land has been designated for wildlife habitat and mineral values there are several areas on the Seward Peninsula proposed for settlement (future state land sales). The
Draft Plan, maps and other information can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/planning. For more information, contact Ray Burger at 907-269-8534 or fax 907-269-8915.

May 8
MANUFACTURED LANDSCAPES will be shown at the Taproot, Café, 1330 Huffman Rd. This event is Free, sponsored by AWEN (AK Women’s Environmental Network). For more information, contact Ann Marie Sack at amsack@hotmail.com.

**May 11
MIGRATORY BIRD DAY at the ALASKA ZOO will be held on Mother’s Day from 10am to 5pm (zoo open from 9am to 6pm). Mother's Day rates: Mom's get in FREE! Receive $2 off one adult admission if you bring your old cell phone to be recycled. Learn how migratory birds travel from “Tundra to Tropics” and explore the obstacles they face along the way through an interactive shorebird migration game with prizes. Other activities include event “migration” tracking with pedometers, wingspan comparisons on an actual size display, Kid’s Activity Tent with crafts, shade grown coffee for sale in the Coffee Shop, free event posters, conservation booths, and a wild bird release at 4:30 on the Coffee Shop lawn. Overflow parking at the Greek Orthodox Church on O’Malley with free zoo shuttle service to and from the event.

May 12
Public hearings will continue beginning at 6:30 at the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Assembly Chambers, Loussac Library on the DRAFT ECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS of the TITLE 21 REWRITE.

**May 13
JAPAN’S WINTER WILDLIFE, a photographic trip, will be presented by JULIE JESSEN at 7:30pm at the Anchorage Museum of History & Art. She will talk about her observations on Japan, it’s culture, and the relationship between wildlife and nature For information, call Jules Tileston at 561-0540 or go to www.asonp.org.

**May 15
VIVIAN MENDENHALL will present a fascinating presentation on the GALAPAGOS ISLANDS at 7:30pm at the Campbell Creek Science Center at the Anchorage Audubon General Meeting. Public invited.

MEETINGS & EVENTS OUT OF ANCHORAGE

April 20 - 27
FAIRBANKS - Alaska Youth for Environmental Action’s WEEK WITHOUT PLASTICS. Do all you can to re-think plastics this week! Use cloth bags, get a stainless steel water bottle, buy things with less plastic packaging, and look for more ways to reduce your use of petroleum-based plastics. Visit www.ayea.org for more information on the Re3-Think Plastics Campaign.

April 21 - 27
FAIRBANKS - The 4th ANNUAL SUSTAINABLE LIVING CONFERENCE & EARTH DAY FAIR 2008 will be held on the UAF Campus. The Sustainable Campus Task Force sponsors this annual event comprised of workshops, presentations, tours & fun! For more information and the full detailed schedule: visit www.vortexforces.com/sctf or email fbsctf@uaf.edu or call 474-6037.

April 24
KETCHIKAN - FOREST SERVICE CABINS 101 will be held at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center at 7pm. Have you ever wanted to rent a Forest Service cabin but were too overwhelmed to try? Let the recreation staff from the Ketchikan-Misty Fiords Ranger District ease your mind as they discuss “everything you ever wanted to know about Forest Service cabins!” This includes cabin locations, reservations, transportation and what you need to prepare for to enjoy your stay at a Forest Service cabin. Call 228-6220 for more information.

April 24
HOMER - HOW CAN THE ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY INTERPRETIVE PLAN ENHANCE HOMER? will be held at 5:30pm at the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center. The Alaska Marine Highway System provides economic opportunities for communities along its routes. Previous efforts to have the AMHS designated as an All-American Road were successful based on the development of the Alaska’s Marine Highway Corridor Partnership Plan, which recommended development of an interpretation plan. The US Fish & Wildlife Service recently received a byways grant to develop an interpretive plan for the Kodiak & Aleutian Segment of the Alaska Marine Highway. This collaborative project will bring together stakeholders from throughout the region including: USFWS, AMHS, Alaska State Parks, SWAMC, and the communities of Homer, Kodiak, Unalaska, Cold Bay, and Sand Point. Please join the professional interpretive staff from Alaska State Parks to learn about how the Alaska Marine Highway System Kodiak & Aleutian Segment Master Interpretive Plan can benefit your community and how you can participate in this important project. For more information, contact lead project planner Penny Bauder, with Alaska State Parks, at (907) 269-8889 or penny.bauder@alaska.gov.

April 25
KETCHIKAN - CRUISING FOR Birds and WHALES ALONG THE ALEUTIAN CHAIN will be presented by STEVE HEINL at 7pm at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Canter. Steve will show images and discuss the unique bird and whale species observed while guiding a birding cruise from Anchorage to Attu Island in the fall of 2006. Call 228-6220 for more information.

**April 25
PALMER - GEOTHERMAL ENERGY AT CHENA HOT SPRINGS will be held at 7pm in Room FSM206, Mat-Su College. GWEN HOLDMANN, the engineer who designed the geothermal power plant at Chena Hot Springs, will speak at Matanuska-Susitna College on April 25th at 7pm in room FSM 206. Chena Hot Spring's vision is to become a self-sufficient community in terms of energy, food, heating and fuel use to the greatest extent possible. To attain this goal, Chena is developing numerous renewable energy and sustainable development projects which are detailed in this website. Chena is also forming partnerships within our community and across the U.S. to promote and implement renewable technologies. Learn more about their numerous projects at www.yourownpower.com, but here's the main one: The 400kW Chena Hot Springs geothermal power plant, designed and built by United Technologies Corporation, is the first geothermal power plant in Alaska. The plant was brought online in July 2006 and is pushing the envelope for low temperature power generation.

April 26
FAIRBANKS - CELEBRATE EARTH DAY 2008 from 10am to 5pm at the Carlson Center. A sustainable living expo/trade show/concert will be held. Check out the newest and coolest technologies in the Renewables Industry, educational seminars, lectures, and guest speakers plus organized activities for children! Call 347-1089 or 978-9889 for sponsorship information and more details.

April 26
FAIRBANKS - SPRING ELECTRONICS RECYCLING EVENT for HOUSEHOLDS will be held from 10am to 5pm at the Carlson Center. It’s time once again to clean out your homes and do the right thing with your old electronics—re-cycle them! Visit http://www.iagreenstar.org for up-to-date information.

April 26
FAIRBANKS - SPRING MIGRATION CELEBRATION will be held from Noon to 4pm at Creamer’s Field. Register for Camp Habitat, enjoy the sights of birds in the sky, and participate in activities at this fun family event. For more information, call (907) 452-5162.

April 26
HOMER - 3rd ANNUAL ELECTRONICS RECYCLING EVENT will be held at Spenard Builders Supply on Lake Street from 10apm to 3pm. Household: $15 per vehicle with 1 monitor, Businesses : 35¢ per pound, must schedule an appointment, and Non-Profits: 35¢ per pound, eligible for 25¢ per pound mail-in refund with proof of 501(c)3 status, by appointment only. To make an appointment, ask questions, or volunteer for the event, call Nina at 235-6262. ALL MARINE ELECTRONICS ALSO ACCEPTED! A drawing will be held at the end of the event and five lucky people will win prizes totaling $275—winners will be notified by phone or e-mail.

April 26
PALMER-WASILLA - INTRO TO RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS WORKSHOP will be held from 9am to 4pm (with one hour break for lunch, noon to 1pm) at the Agate Inn. Free on-site parking, free coffee & tea, indoor classroom & outdoor solar workshop area. Learn how Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Solar Hot Water system work. This hands on workshop discusses ways to reduce energy costs for your home or business while earning a return on your investment in solar or wind power system. In the morning you will learn valuable methods of saving $$ with energy efficiency, including conducting a hands-on mini-energy audit. In the afternoon session you will learn the basics of solar, wind and micro-hydro technologies, learn to use the solar pathfinder, get your hands on a working grid-tied solar photovoltaic system, and a working solar thermal (hot water) system. You will also get a tour of the Agate Inn tracking PV system. Workshop Includes: a complimentary copy of Homepower Magazine or Solar Today; all participants receive a 10% discount on new renewable energy books on sale at the workshop. Cost: Cost is $60 for full-time students; $80 for working folks and others. Lunch: Bring your own, or join our group delivery order from a local organic sandwich shop (menus will be provided at the start of workshop, please note that lunch is not included in workshop fee). Instructors: ANDY BAKER, PHIL ST. JOHN and MARK MASTELLER. You can register over the phone at 907-274-2007, or by mail: please provide your name, address, phone, email, and send it with payment to: YourCleanEnergy, 308 G Street #212, Anchorage AK 99501. For more information, contact Andy at andybaker@yourcleanenergy.us.

April 26
WASILLA - ALASKANS FOR PALMER HAY FLATS STATE GAME REFUGE ANNUAL GATHERING of MEMBERS and SUPPORTERS will be held beginning at Noon at 1602 W. Jaime Marie Circle, (Fairview Loop to Danielle across from Snowshoe School to Jaime Marie Circle, straight ahead at the end). Activities include: Noon; Cookout, feasting and greeting (plenty to eat, but potluck dishes are always welcome); 1pm - Business Meeting - 2007-2008 Annual Report, What's coming up – events, projects and natural science center, and Election of Board Members; 1:30pm - Program - Alaskan Birds of Prey - Live! Great Grey Owl, Red Tail Hawk and Northern Saw-Whet Owl; 2pm - Bird Rescue Release; 2:15pm - MEMBER DRAWING Alaska Railroad Tickets for Two; and 2:30pm - Celebrate Esprit de Corps! Conviviality! Fellowship! All the above accompanied by sandhill cranes, waterfowl migrants and a chorus of romantic wood frogs! For information contact (907)373-7484; fax: (907)373-7482 or www.PalmerHayFlats.org.

April 27
PALMER - Celebrate Earth Day at the VALLEY COMMUNITY FOR RECYCLING SOLUTIONS (VCRS) OPEN HOUSE at the Palmer Depot from 2 to 6pm and join in our fun free event. There will be live music featuring Lulu & the Aqua Nets, local musicians; sculptures and fashions created from recycled materials made and worn by local artists; games & activities for all ages; and great food cooked up by Steve Brown's traveling gourmet kitchen with help from IBEW Local 1547.

April 27
PALMER - SPRING GEAR SWAP & BIKE FEST will be held at the Mat Su Borough Gym, 350 E. Dahlia Ave. Sellers need to bring their gear in between 9 and 10am to register and gear is from 10am to 4pm. Items accepted for sale include: bikes, backpacks, fishing rods, tents, skis, snowboards, canoes, kayaks, and other useful gear and equipment for active outdoor pursuits. There will also be a KIDS BIKE SKILLS RODEO from 12:00 – 2:30 pm. Free helmets and prizes for participants. Parent’s registration and bike helmets required. FREE BIKE MAINTENANCE CLASSES will be held from 1 to 3pm. Learn how to maintain your bike, change tires and get some Spring tune-up tips. Local bike shops will be there to show their new bikes and get us ready to ride. Call 745-7714 for more information.

April 28
PALMER - Public work session will be held from 6:30 to 8:30pm in the Mat-Su Borough conference room, following a meeting of the Borough’s Parks, Recreation & Trails Board to discuss the FISH CREEK MANAGEMENT PLAN UPDATE. The work session will review the revised draft plan, which will be released by April 21. The current draft is available at http://www.agnewbeck.com/pdf/matsu/Fish_Creek/Comment&Contact%20sheet_fish_crk.pdf.

**April 29
FAIRBANKS - Open House will be held from 4 to 7 pm at the Noel Wien Library to discuss the proposed NOBLE STREET UPGRADE to construct improvements from 1st Avenue to Gaffney Road in downtown Fairbanks. The original project area included Lacey Street, but it was removed from the scope of work during the preliminary design phase, and the project now consists of Noble Street only. The Fairbanks Noble Street Upgrade will improve traffic flow and aesthetics on Noble Street, while retaining three lanes throughout(one driving lane in each direction plus a two-way center turn lane). Construction of the project would improve accessibility and vehicle/pedestrian safety. The build alternatives under consideration are not anticipated to involve work in the 100 year floodplain (as defined in E.O. 11988, Floodplain Management). Impacts to wetlands (as defined in E.O. 11990, Protection of Wetlands) are not expected. At Myrtle Thomas Park, (a 4(f) property as defined in 23 USC 138), the project may add landscaping and replace the chain link fence with a decorative fence. We are seeking public input on the potential for impacts to the cultural environment (as defined in E.O. 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment) and to minority or low-income populations (as defined in E.O. 12898, Environmental Justice). For further information regarding the meeting or the project, or if you would like to submit comments outside the public meeting, contact Steve Henry, P.E., Engineering Manager, at (907)451-2283, Fax: (907) 451-5126 or email: steve.henry@alaska.gov.

April 29
FAIRBANKS - GOLDEN VALLEY ELECTRICAL ASSOCIATION Annual Meeting will be held at 7pm at the Carlson Center. Come give 3 minutes of comments on the future of your electric cooperative, get $15 off your electric bill, eat cookies, and have a chance at big dollar door prizes!

April 29
FAIRBANKS - BUSINESS/CORPORATE ELECTRONICS COLLECTION will be held at the Carlson Center parking Lot. Call Darcie Warden at 978-9889 to make an appointment to drop off old electronics available during the work day

April 29
FAIRBANKS - HOUSEHOLD ELECTRONICS COLLECTION will be held at the Carlson Center Parking lot from 5 to 7pm during the Golden Valley Electric Association Annual Meeting. There is a small fee to drop off old electronics. see the Interior Alaska Green Star website www.iagreenstar.org for details.

**April 30
WASILLA - The WASILLA SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT BOARD will meet at 1pm at the Wasilla SWCD Office..The district meets the last Wednesday of every month. Cooperators and the public are encouraged to attend. Agenda includes: Senator Stevens letter; Taffina Katkus Cooperator Agreement; and Annual Work Plans. There will be an opportunity for public comment. For more information, please contact Carolyn Weimer, District Manager at (907) 357-4563 ext. 103 or carolyn@wasillaswcd.org.

**May 1
CANTWELL - Open House will be held from 4 to 7pm at the Cantwell School Gym to view maps and become informed about PROPOSED PUBLIC EASEMENTS for UPCOMING LAND CONVEYANCES in the AHTNA, INCORPORATED REGION related to Section 17(b) of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. Maps, ANSCA 17b Easement nomination forms, answers to frequently asked questions and additional information is available at www.blm.gov/ak/st/en/prog/lands_realty/17b_easements/17b_Easements_on_Ahtna_Lands.html. For more information, contact the BLM Glennallen Field Office at 907-822-3217.

**May 1
CORDOVA - The EXXON VALDEZ OIL SPILL TRUSTEE COUNCIL will meet at 6:30pm at the Mt Eccles Elementary School. Topics for discussion are the Herring Restoration Plan and Cordova Community Center. For more information contact the EVOS office at 907-278-8012 or on the web at: www.evostc.state.ak.us/Events.

May 1
CORDOVA - EXXON VALDEZ OIL SPILL TRUSTEE COUNCIL will meet at 6:30pm in the Mt. Eccles Elementary School Cafeteria. Topics for discussion are the Herring Restoration Plan and Cordova Community Center. For more information contact the EVOS office at 907.278.8012 or on the web at: www.evostc.state.ak.us/Events.

**May 3
WASILLA - COTTONWOOD CREEK CLEANUP will be held from 10am to 2pm. Meet at the Wasilla Police Station. For more information, contact CATHERINE@Wasilla.SWCD or 357-4563 ext. 106.

May 3
JUNEAU - BERNERS BAY CRUISES will be held from 8:30 to 1:30pm. Adults - $40, Students - $20, and Children under 12 - $5 (must be accompanied by adult). Tickets at Hearthside Books. Vessels depart Don D. Statter Harbor below DeHarts. Boarding begins about 15 minutes before departure. Cruise lasts four hours. Juneau Audubon Society members will be on board as natural history interpreters.

May 8
FAIRBANKS - Northern Voices Series will present MONIQUE MUSICK at 7pm in the Noel Wien Library Auditorium. Monique Musick is a young photographer whose focus on the ENVIRONMENT RELATES ISSUES with ART.

May 8
FAIRBANKS - Public meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm at the DNR office at 3700 Airport Way on the DRAFT NORTHWEST AREA PLAN (NWAP) designating land use and directing management of 19 million acres of state land and land selections in the area from Pont Lay to Saint Michael in northwest Alaska. The original Northwest Area Plan was adopted in 1989 and since then the state has selected and topfiled about 5 million acres of land. These additional lands are scattered throughout the Lisburne and Seward peninsulas, but some of the larger blocks are in the Baird Mountains between the Noatak and Kobuk drainages, in the Selawik Hills east of Buckland, in the Darby Mountains east of Council, and in the Kigluaik Mountains north of Nome. This plan revision gives both general management guidelines describing how state land may be used as well as management intent for each specific parcel of state land. It covers nearly 8 million acres of state-owned uplands, over 5 million acres of state-selected lands, and over 5 million acres of tidelands. While most land has been designated for wildlife habitat and mineral values there are several areas on the Seward Peninsula proposed for settlement (future state land sales). The Draft Plan, maps and other information can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/planning. For more information, contact Ray Burger at 907-269-8534 or fax 907-269-8915.

May 9
FAIRBANKS - STORIES FROM A CHANGING PLANET will be presented from 7 to 9pm (location to be announced). Hear personal stories of life, research and adventure in the world's polar regions from scientists on the Polar-PALOOZA NATIONAL TOUR. This engaging multimedia show features high definition documentary video, hands-on artifacts and dialog with members of the Polar-Palooza team. Free admission. International Polar Year event produced by Passport to Knowledge and supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and NASA's Science Mission Directorate.

**May 13
TELLER - Public meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm at the Community Hall on the DRAFT NORTHWEST AREA PLAN (NWAP) designating land use and directing management of 19 million acres of state land and land selections in the area from Pont Lay to Saint Michael in northwest Alaska. The original Northwest Area Plan was adopted in 1989 and since then the state has selected and topfiled about 5 million acres of land. These additional lands are scattered throughout the Lisburne and Seward peninsulas, but some of the larger blocks are in the Baird Mountains between the Noatak and Kobuk drainages, in the Selawik Hills east of Buckland, in the Darby Mountains east of Council, and in the Kigluaik Mountains north of Nome. This plan revision gives both general management guidelines describing how state land may be used as well as management intent for each specific parcel of state land. It covers nearly 8 million acres of state-owned uplands, over 5 million acres of state-selected lands, and over 5 million acres of tidelands. While most land has been designated for wildlife habitat and mineral values there are several areas on the Seward Peninsula proposed for settlement (future state land sales). The Draft Plan, maps and other information can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/planning. For more information, contact Ray Burger at 907-269-8534 or fax 907-269-8915.

**May 14
NOME - Public meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm at the Old Saint Joseph's Church on the DRAFT NORTHWEST AREA PLAN (NWAP) designating land use and directing management of 19 million acres of state land and land selections in the area from Pont Lay to Saint Michael in northwest Alaska. The original Northwest Area Plan was adopted in 1989 and since then the state has selected and topfiled about 5 million acres of land. These additional lands are scattered throughout the Lisburne and Seward peninsulas, but some of the larger blocks are in the Baird Mountains between the Noatak and Kobuk drainages, in the Selawik Hills east of Buckland, in the Darby Mountains east of Council, and in the Kigluaik Mountains north of Nome. This plan revision gives both general management guidelines describing how state land may be used as well as management intent for each specific parcel of state land. It covers nearly 8 million acres of state-owned uplands, over 5 million acres of state-selected lands, and over 5 million acres of tidelands. While most land has been designated for wildlife habitat and mineral values there are several areas on the Seward Peninsula proposed for settlement (future state land sales). The Draft Plan, maps and other information can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/planning. For more information, contact Ray Burger at 907-269-8534 or fax 907-269-8915.

**May 15
KOTZEBUE - Public meeting will be held from 7 to 9pm at the Borough Assembly Chambers on the DRAFT NORTHWEST AREA PLAN (NWAP) designating land use and directing management of 19 million acres of state land and land selections in the area from Pont Lay to Saint Michael in northwest Alaska. The original Northwest Area Plan was adopted in 1989 and since then the state has selected and topfiled about 5 million acres of land. These additional lands are scattered throughout the Lisburne and Seward peninsulas, but some of the larger blocks are in the Baird Mountains between the Noatak and Kobuk drainages, in the Selawik Hills east of Buckland, in the Darby Mountains east of Council, and in the Kigluaik Mountains north of Nome. This plan revision gives both general management guidelines describing how state land may be used as well as management intent for each specific parcel of state land. It covers nearly 8 million acres of state-owned uplands, over 5 million acres of state-selected lands, and over 5 million acres of tidelands. While most land has been designated for wildlife habitat and mineral values there are several areas on the Seward Peninsula proposed for settlement (future state land sales). The Draft Plan, maps and other information can be found at http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/mlw/planning. For more information, contact Ray Burger at 907-269-8534 or fax 907-269-8915.

**May 16 & 17
BIG LAKE - Community Workshop #1 will be held from 6:30 to 9pm on Friday and from 9am to 1pm on Saturday at Big Lake Elementary School to discuss the BIG LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN. The Workshop will aim to provide Big Lake community members with an overview of the comprehensive planning process and a thorough review of community issues, preliminary goals and potential strategies as described in the Draft Issues & Goals Report.
Please review the revised Issues & Goals Report Draft available at http://www.agnewbeck.com/pdf/matsu/Big_Lake/BL_IssuesandGoals_4-15-08.pdf For more information, contact Shelly Wade at shelly@agnewbeck.com.

**May 17
COOPER LANDING - PITCH IN ON A SOLAR DEMONSTRATION PROJECT will be held at Camp Fire USA Alaska Council's Camp Kushtaka on Kenai Lake. The open house celebrates the installation of a Solar Demonstration Project. The camp, located in the Cooper Landing area on Snug Harbor Road, has operated without electricity for over 40 years. Camp Fire is installing a solar-powered water pump that replaces a gasoline powered generator and a series of panels in the kitchen that will be used for lighting, fans and small appliances. Come down, pitch in around camp, enjoy new friends and food in one of Alaska's most stunning outdoor environments. RSVP to emaling@campfireak.org or by calling Ellen Maling at 257-8823.

ITEMS OF INTEREST

**To celebrate their 10th Anniversary, ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER ADMISSION will be FREE for Alaskans on the 10th day of each month through 2008. Alaskan ID required. Open 7 days a week from 10am to 5 pm. Call (800) 224-2525 or (907) 224-6312 for more information.

The Minerals Management Service (MMS) has issued a CALL FOR INFORMATION and a NOTICE OF INTENT TO PREPARE AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EIS) for Lease Sale 214 in the NORTH ALEUTIAN BASIN PLANNING Area proposed for 2011. This action is to gather information and does not indicate a preliminary decision to lease in this area. It provides an opportunity for the public, industry, and state officials to offer comments and suggestions about the potential lease sale, to identify environmental concerns and other uses of the area that may be affected by the leasing, and to propose possible alternatives, lease terms, and mitigation measures. The Call area is believed to be gas-prone and is located offshore the State of Alaska in the North Aleutian Basin Planning Area in the southeastern Bering Sea and covers about 5.6 million acres. MMS recently published a Report of the Proceedings and a synthesis of the Literature and Information related to the Natural Resources of the North Aleutian Basin. About 600 new sources of information were noted. The document can be found at http://www.mms.gov/alaska/reports/2007rpts/2007_066.pdf. Comments may be sent to: MMS Alaska OCS Region Attn: Sale 214 CALL, 3801 Centerpoint Drive, Suite 500, Anchorage, AK 99503-5823 or submitted via e-mail to akeis@mms.gov. For more information, contact 907-334-5208 or toll-free at 1-800-764-2627 or see www.mms.gov/alaska.

It has been determined that a PROJECT to RETURN the NATURAL BIODIVERSITY of RAT ISLAND in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge by eradicating invasive Norway rats will not have any significant impacts on the human environment. Rat Island is uninhabited and located in the Aleutian Island Chain about 1,300 miles west of Anchorage. The Nature Conservancy and Island Conservation are partners in the plan to restore wildlife habitat by removing the rats. The decision was based on an Environmental Assessment of the project released for public comment in mid-December. Thirty-seven comments were received during the Assessment review period. Public comments were overwhelmingly supportive. The project hopes to restore seabirds, native vegetation and other elements to Rat Island’s ecosystem. Non-native, predatory rats, which arrived on the island via shipwreck in the 1780’s, have eliminated many bird species and affected other parts of the island’s ecosystem. Pending final approval of permits and pesticide regulation compliance, eradication operations will begin on the 6,861 acre island in the fall of 2008.The Finding of No Significant Impact and the Environmental Assessment are available at http://alaskamaritime.fws.gov/news.htm.

May is AMERICAN WETLANDS MONTH For general American Wetlands Month information, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/awm..

CHUGACH NATIONAL FOREST NATIONAL FOREST RECREATIONAL FACILITY ANALYSIS is available for review. Recreation Facility Analysis is the first nationally consistent analytical process that allows us to know what running a recreation site costs, the relative importance of that site, and its condition. Using this analysis, the Forest has built a "5-year Proposed Program of Work.“ The Proposed Program of Work is a list of tasks that the Forest will try to accomplish or further explore over the next 5 years. The value of recreation is so great and the benefits to communities, families and individuals so vital that we must continue to do all we can to improve access and availability of quality outdoor recreation for everyone. Many of the facilities were built 30-50 years ago. Some have reached the end of their useful life. Other facilities receive little or no use, and no longer serve the demand that existed in years past. The fundamental premise of the proposed program of work is to create an inventory which is sustainable and flexible enough to be annually adapted to any changes in demand, available resources, and opportunities. Therefore, the Proposed Program of Work can be updated should we have a need to re-evaluate our recreation program. The Analysis is available at http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/chugach/recreation/rfa/pdf/program-of-work.pdf.

VOLUNTEERS OPPORTUNITIES

**Volunteer positions in available in the ALASKA NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM are listed at http://home.nps.gov/applications/vips/opportunities.cfm?states=AK.

VOLUNTEER POSITION - MONITOR SEABIRDS ON THE ALASKA MARITIME NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE..Two (2) Volunteers are needed from May 1 to at least mid September 2008 for long-term seabird monitoring project on CHOWIET ISLAND (Semidi Is, AK Peninsula). Living conditions are primitive and crew live in a small cabin. Weather is usually cold and wet. The successful candidate is the type of person looking for an extremely remote experience with a like-minded crew of energetic, well-conditioned and knowledgeable people. Project is an on-going program, monitoring breeding chronology, reproductive success, population changes, adult survival, and food habits of up to 15 species of seabirds (including storm-petrels, cormorants, kittiwakes, murres, pigeon guillemots, auklets, and puffins depending on the location). This is a full-time commitment: Some workdays are long as data collection pertains to diurnal and nocturnal bird activities. Only applicants that are available for the entire period (1 May to mid-September) should apply, as transport to and from the island is via a research vessel with a fixed schedule. We are unable to accommodate you if you have summer events such as weddings to attend or are still in classes when we depart. Skills Prefer applicants with (or working toward) a degree in wildlife biology or related field and with some field experience. All applicants should be in excellent physical condition as the work is physically demanding, and should be able to live and work happily with a small group of people in an extremely remote and isolated environment. Applica