Denali Park Gravel Acquisition EA Released:
In order to maintain the Park Road for the next 10 years, NPS estimates a need for 375,000 cubic yards of gravel, most of it intended for points west of Eielson. The prefered alternatives (4&5) advocate using gravel from outside the Park, from the existing Teklanika and Toklat pits, reclaimed mining tailings from Kantishna, and possibly the North Face Corner and a site on Moose Creek. DCC feels that neither preferred alternative is acceptable. The Moose Creek Terrace is currently a high use visitor area, and is not desirable for gravel extraction. It is our opinion that NPS has overstated its gravel needs, and has not considered all available resources.
Comments due by June 23 Submit to: dena_public_comments@nps.gov
Read the abstract on line: www.nps.gov/dena/home/planning/ea/gravel/abstract.html

Community Transportation Open Forum:
Tuesday, June 17, 2003 Denali Princess Lodge 7-9 PM
NPS is investigating the feasibility and desirability of a community transportation system that would provide public transportation between the Park entrance area and neighboring communities during the summer visitor season. A team of alternative transportation experts will be visiting the park in mid-June to determine whether a full feasibility study of the project is justifies.
All Community Members are Invited, Please share your thoughts!
For more information call Charlie Loeb: 683-6416

HCCP
The Department of Energy has been authorized to make a $125 million loan to the Alaska Industrial and Export Authority (AIDEA) to pay for modifications to the Healy Clean Coal electricity plant. The loan will pay for changes to its air pollution equipment to allow the plant to begin normal electricity production operation. The innovative $278 million plant, built in 1991 has been in mothballs after failing to operate as proposed. It is not certain that AIDEA supports the retrofit, and they are not obligated to accept the loan.

Usibelli Coal has applied to the state to explore for Coal Bed Methane
Usibelli has submitted to Alaska DNR an application for 8 leases (9 sections per lease) to try and develop a network of coal bed methane wells in the Healy area. DCC is currently investigating the possible impacts and will keep the community informed.
Read the application for lease announcement online: www.dog.dnr.state.ak.us

Nenana Canyon Safety Project Update Meeting
June 19, 6-8PM Tri Valley Community Center
Wilder Construction, the contractor for the Nenana Canyon road and pedestrian improvements will hold and information meeting for the public this Thursday.

The Denali Borough may be able to negotiate with DOT to solve parking problems in the Nenana Canyon
DOT has so far yet to grant an individual a permit for encroachment of the right of way in the Nenana Canyon, but the Denali Borough, if it so chooses, may be able to obtain such permission. The Borough could potentially help local Nenana Canyon businesses solve the parking problem and perhaps landscape the right of way to be more user friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

North Access Visitor Facilities Study: A cooperative effort between NPS and Alaska DNR, this study is exploring Visitor Facilities along the Stampede Road alignment, in support of the North Access Project to extend a road to Kantishna. DCC feels this study is premature, and would like the agencies involved to redirect the scope of the study to include a "no road or rail" option.
Comments due July 11 Submit to: dena_public_comments@nps.gov
Learn more on DCC's North Access page

Thanks! for all your Backcountry Management Plan comments
NPS officials have informed DCC that many of our members took the time to comment on this large and complex document. Thanks for all your hard work in participating in the public process.