July1, 2009 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 TELECONFERENCE EVENTS

**July 6-8 (Limited space available due to cancellations) DENALI NATIONAL PARK – ACCREDITED TEACHER TRAINING – SUBARCTIC SCIENCE, SUSTAINABILITY AND STUDENTS: BUILDING BRIDGES will be offered by the Murie Science and Learning Center. Join us on a behind the scenes investigation of subarctic science and current research taking place at Denali National Park and Preserve. We’ll role play lesson plans covering both physical and life sciences and examine evidence of climate change in Denali. We’ll simulate critical thinking strategies a class can model to explore the implications of climate change, and learn about sustainable practices at Denali and how we can apply them in our own lives. You’ll leave with tools to teach subarctic science, and activities to get your students outside, strengthen their observation skills, and connect with the natural world. Participants will stay at a field camp located 29 miles inside Denali National Park along the Teklanika River. The Field Camp includes rustic tent cabins and a common dining tent. All meals, accommodations, transportation, instruction, and one professional development credit are included in the $340 course fee. For more information or to register, go to www.murieslc.org, email courses@murieslc.org, or call 1-888-688-1269.

July 9-11 CORDOVA - COPPER RIVER WILD! SALMON FESTIVAL celebrates salmon through music, arts and education. This year's event will include the Taste of Cordova food cook-off event, workshops and performances with guest artists Moe Bowstern and Ray Troll, Small Fry salmon activities for kids of all ages, Alaska Salmon Runs, and Salmon Jam music festival--two nights of live music, great food, arts and craft sales and a beer garden. See www.copperriverwild.org for more information or contact (907)424-3334 or fax (907)424-4318.

**July 9 - 12 HOMER - PLANT SPIRIT MEDICINE RETREAT: THE FOOD AND MEDICINE AT YOUR BACK DOOR workshop will be held from 2pm Thursday to 2pm Sunday. Learn to develop a spiritual relationship with plants through skills of direct communication and expanded awareness. Explore the healing and medicinal power of plants in a secluded peaceful setting. Learn to Identify local wild plants and their medicinal properties. Make herbal oils and tinctures, and salves for an Herbal First Aid Kit. Learn local wild edible plants and use them as food during the retreat. Dinners, breakfasts and camping/ camper space are provided. Instructor: NANCY LEE-EVANS, director of the Anam Cara Program, has been studying and using herbal medicine and exploring the sacred relationship with creation for more than 20 years. Cost: $350. More information, contact Nancy Lee-Evans at 907-345-6760 or email nancy.lee.evans@gci.net.

**July 10-12 (Limited space available due to cancellations) DENALI NATIONAL PARK – FIELD COURSE – DENALI’S LARGE MAMMALS will be taught by the Murie Science and Learning Center. Denali National Park is well known for its legendary populations of large mammals such as bears, wolves, sheep, caribou, and moose. Participants will learn about large mammal habitat, natural history and research as they explore Denali and experiment with the tools of scientists. Participants will stay at a field camp located 29 miles inside Denali National Park along the Teklanika River. The Field Camp includes rustic tent cabins and a common dining tent. All meals, accommodations, transportation, and instruction are included in the $320 course fee. Professional development credit is available through UAA. For more information or to register, go to www.murieslc.org, email courses@murieslc.org, or call 1-888-688-1269.

**July 15 (Statewide) FIRST ANNUAL ALASKA SOLAR TOUR will be held from 10am to 4pm in Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer, Kenai, Soldotna, Kasilof, Homer, Fairbanks, and Nome in conjunction with the American Solar Energy Society www.ASES.org/tour. It will be a free self directed tour of homes and businesses in the community with Renewable Energy and Green Building features. The national tour had 140,000 participants last year. To date sponsorships from Homer Electric Association and the Peninsula Clarion. A local volunteer artist in Kasilof has been commissioned to design the Alaska Solar Tour poster with the theme “POWER FROM THE PEOPLE”. For more information, go to ACAT web site at www.acat.org for more information.

August 3 - 7 HOMER - TRAIL MANAGEMENT: PLANS, PROJECTS, AND PEOPLE TRAINING will be held at the Alaska Islands & Ocean by the National Conservation Training Center. Public agency trail staff, contractors, and volunteers will learn to achieve sustainable and accessible trails of all kinds, using the best practices of the Trail Management Process (TMP). This collaborative process includes planning, design layout, construction, maintenance, monitoring, crew leadership, interpretation, operations, and safety. Field exercises include trail layout, construction and maintenance techniques. Cost: There is no tuition for this course unless you cancel with four weeks prior to the start of the course. The Federal Highway Administration, in addition to Federal Agency sponsors, provide annual funding for this course which is used to off-set tuition costs. The participant’s office is responsible for expenses related to travel, meals, and lodging. Cancellation policies: All course applicants, including FWS, who cancel their reservations within four weeks prior to the start of a course without providing a substitution, are charged in full for tuition ($950.00) and lodging costs. How to apply: Complete the on-line application at https://doilearn.doi.gov/. Course registration deadline: May 29. For more information, contact Matt Gay, National Conservation Training Center at (304) 876-7654 or email Matt_Gay@fws.gov.

**July 31 – August 2 DENALI NATIONAL PARK – FIELD COURSE – PIONEERS OF DENALI: THE CREATION OF MT. MCKINLEY NATIONAL PARK will be taught by the Murie Science and Learning Center. Alaska’s first national park was set aside in 1917 as a game refuge to protect the Dall Sheep in the region. However, the first park ranger did not start until 1921! Enforcing that protection and establishing the new park were not easy and could not have happened without the dedication of a few hardy and exceptional individuals. Join local historian and author Tom Walker on a journey into the past and discover the intriguing stories of the park’s early developmental years. We’ll walk in the footsteps of pioneer superintendent Harry Karstens and others who faced extreme challenges in laying the foundation for what is now one of the premier wilderness parks in the world. Tom Walker is the author of “McKinley Station: The People of the Pioneer Park that Became Denali” and “Kantishna: Mushers, Miners, Mountaineers”. Participants will stay at a field camp located 29 miles inside Denali National Park along the Teklanika River. The Field Camp includes rustic tent cabins and a common dining tent. All meals, accommodations, transportation, and instruction are included in the $330 course fee. Professional development credit is available through UAA. For more information or to register, go to www.murieslc.org, email courses@murieslc.org, or call 1-888-688-1269.

August 4 - 6 PALMER - ALASKA AGRICULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM EDUCATOR INSTITUTE will be held for teachers of all grades, with breakout segments for lower or upper grades and offers 1-2 professional development credits through UAF’s School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences, NRM F595..Early registration deadline: July 1 (bonus materials). Registration accepted until July 30. Maximum of 25 students. Each course includes special speakers, hands-on activities, farm tours, take-away materials, Alaska Grown lunches, snacks. Course fee is $100 plus cost of credits. Course work for credits adheres to contact and noncontact hours required by UAA and UAF, including additional assignments beyond attending the institute. Reduced fee for informal educators and preservice teachers taking the course without credit. For more information, visit www.agclassroom.org/ak, email akaitc@alaskafb.org or call 982-2219 or 746-2172.

**August 7 - 9 DENALI NATIONAL PARK - FIELD COURSE – DENALI FIELD JOURNALING will be offered by the Murie Science and Learning Center. In any season and any weather, a journal offers people the opportunity to slow down, observe, reflect, and renew their connection to the living world. Join long-time Denali resident and writer Tom Walker for field-based journaling in one of the most pristine natural landscapes and ecosystems in the world. While exploring Denali, we will learn how to make detailed observations in the field and capture these dramatic scenes as they occur. Participants will stay at a field camp located 29 miles inside Denali National Park along the Teklanika River. The Field Camp includes rustic tent cabins and a common dining tent. All meals, accommodations, transportation, and instruction are included in the $330 course fee. Professional development credit is available through UAA. For more information or to register, go to www.murieslc.org, email courses@murieslc.org, or call 1-888-688-1269.

**August 14 – 16 DENALI NATIONAL PARK - FAMILY FIELD COURSE – DENALI WILDLIFE will be offered by the Murie Science and Learning Center. Come share the wonder of discovery with your children or grandchildren as we explore the stories of the wild. We will investigate the Park for signs of animal tracks, rubs, browse, scat, nests, and dens. We'll use these clues on the landscape to better understand Alaska's legendary wildlife and the homes in which they live. This seminar is specifically designed for families with children 8 years and younger. All meals, accommodations, transportation, and instruction are included in the $210 per person course fee. Professional development credit is available through UAA. For more information or to register, go to www.murieslc.org, courses@murieslc.org, or toll free 1-888-688-1269.

August 21-23 FAIRBANKS - TANANA VALLEY SANDHILL CRANE FESTIVAL will be held at Cramers Field. For more information, go to http://www.arcticaudubon.org/crane.html.

**September 10 - 13 PETERSBURG - TONGASS RAINFOREST FESTIVAL. Venture into the outdoors with experts and enthusiasts covering topics such as fungi, wildlife, birds, plants and stream ecology. Special walks will be geared for children, but all ages are welcome for any event. You'll need rain gear, hand lens and rubber boots. For more information contact Karen Dillman at 907-772-5865 or Mary Clemens at 907-772-5942.

**September 14 - 16 JUNEAU - 16th ARCTIC SCIENCE CONFERENCE theme is."IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENT ON HUMAN HEALTH • INTERDISCIPLINARY SCIENCE AND EDUCATION. The International Polar Year (IPY) offered an opportunity to investigate the Arctic System and to establish international collaborations between researchers, educators and policy makers. In order to respond and adapt to what has been learned, this conference provides an opportunity to explore the outcomes of international collaborative science, engineering, and education research resulting from IPY. This is a good starting point for discussion on the impact of a changing environment on health. For more information and to see the agenda, go to http://www.arcticaaas.org/meetings/2009/.

GRANTS & AWARDS

July 15 Deadline for proposals for the EPA WETLAND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT GRANTS. The total amount of expected federal funding available under this announcement is approximately $550,000 and the federal portion of the awards will range from $25,000 to $225,000. Grants are awarded through the Clean Water Act and are made to build the capacity of all levels of government to develop and implement effective, comprehensive programs for wetland protection and management. This year the RFP lists five national priority areas: 1) State/Tribal Technical and Meeting Support; 2) Regulation; 3) Monitoring and Assessment; 4) Voluntary Restoration/Protection; and 5) Water Quality Standards for Wetlands. The Request for Proposals can be viewed on the EPA wetlands website: http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/pdf/HQrfp09.pdf.

August 1 Deadline for applications for the RIVERS, TRAILS AND CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM for the Fiscal Year 2010 (October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010). Instructions on “How to Apply for Assistance” and the application can be found at www.nps.gov/rtca. If you have questions, please contact Lisa Holzapfel, Program Manager, NPS-Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program at 907-644-3586, Fax 907-633-3807 or email lisa_holzapfel@nps.gov. Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their project with the Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance staff before sending in an application. To receive a monthly newsletter about exciting conservation and recreation activities and projects receiving National Park Service Assistance nationwide, send an email to Sally Grate at sally_grate@nps.gov and ask to receive the “NPS Conservation + Recreation Newsletter.”

September 1 Deadline for applications for the TRIBAL WILDLIFE GRANT proposals from federally recognized Tribes for projects that will benefit fish and wildlife and their habitats. The Tribal Wildlife Grant program funds projects such as conservation planning, laboratory and field research, habitat restoration, and population surveys and monitoring. This grant request is for fiscal year 2010. In fiscal year 2009 five Alaska tribes received tribal wildlife grants totaling nearly $900,000. Proposals and grant applications must be postmarked by September 1, 2009. The maximum award for any one project under this program is $200,000. For more information and to obtain a copy of the grant application kit, or to find a regional Tribal grants contact, please visit http://www.fws.gov/nativeamerican/grants.html.

DEADLINES

July 3 Comments are due on the proposal to construct a 115-FOOT MONOPOLE COMMUNICATION TOWER at 7801 E. 32nd Ave. An Environmental Evaluation is being prepared to assess potential environmental impacts associated with the project. For more information or to submit comments, contact Heather Campfield, Environmental Specialist, at hcampfield@dowlhkm.com.

July 6 PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND - Comments are due on the proposed DECOMMISSIONING and REMOVAL of the SOUTH CULROSS PUBLIC USE CABIN and CONSTRUCT a NEW PUBLIC USE CABIN in GOOSE BAY. The new cabin is to be constructed in July 2009 and the South Culross cabin will be removed during 2010. For more information, contact Joshua Milligan at 90-288-7720 or email jmilligan@fs.fed.us. Send comments to Kate Walker, Glacier District Ranger, PO Box 129, Girdwood AK 99587.

July 6 Deadline for comments on the DRAFT 2010-2013 ANCHORAGE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (ATIP). The AMATS TIP is a multi-year program of transportation improvements that must be prepared so that the Anchorage area can qualify to receive funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The Draft ATIP is available at http://www.muni.org/iceimages/transplan/2010-13%20Public%20Review%20Draft.pdf. For more information, call 343-7991. Send comments to Traffic Department, Transportation Planning Division, PO Box 196650, Anchorage, AK 99519-6650.

July 6 MAT-SU - Comments due on the DRAFT COMPREHENSIVE EARTH MATERIAL EXTRACTION ORDINANCE that replaces MSB 17.28 (Interim Materials District) and 17.30 Conditional Use Permit for Earth Material Extraction Activities with MSB 28.30 Earth Material Extraction. Application processing fees and annual inspection fees, based on the estimated direct costs of processing and inspecting, are proposed in a draft resolution. The draft ordinance is available at http://ww1.matsugov.us/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_view&gid=1599&tmpl=component&format=raw&Itemid=238. For more information or to submit comments, contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Division at 907-745-8733, Fax 907-745-9876, or email planning@matsugov.us.

July 6 Deadline for comments on the proposed changes to the regulations that address the OPERATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF REGIONAL FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCILS (Councils). The regulatory changes are needed to implement amendments to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, that, among other things, govern the Council Coordination Committee (CCC), expand the role of the Councils’ Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC), require that SSC members disclose their financial interests, and provide for training of Council members and staff. Additionally, the proposed rule would make changes to the regulations requiring Councils to provide procedures for proposed regulations, clarifying restrictions on lobbying, and clarifying timing in the Council member nomination process. The proposed rule would also make technical and minor corrections to the regulations unrelated to the most recent Magnuson-Stevens Act amendments. To see Federal Register information, go to http://www.fakr.noaa.gov/prules/74fr13386.pdf. For more information, contact William Chappell at 301–713–2337. Send comments, identified by ‘‘RIN 0648–AW18,’’ via the Federal eRulemaking Portal http:// www.regulations.gov or Fax: 301–713–1175. All comments received are a part of the public record and will generally be posted to http:// www.regulations.gov without change.

July 7 Comments are due on the proposal to issue a land use permit to the Mat-Su Motor Mushers to authorize the use of state land for MAINTENANCE AND USE OF THE 12' X 12' MANITOBA MOUNTAIN CABIN with attached 6' X 24' shed and a privy near CANYON CREEK accessible from the Mills Creek trailhead between milepost 48 and 49. . If issued, the permit will be valid from August 1, 2009 to July 31, 2014. For more information or to submit comments, contact Candice Snow at (907) 269-8569; Fax: (907) 269-8913 or e-mail candice.snow@alaska.gov.

July 8 Deadline for comments on the Environmental Assessment (EA) on the proposal to REHABILITATE DENALI PARK ROAD SECTION, MILE 80-84 MILE 73-86 ROAD REHABILITATION project for safety improvements to the western end of the DENALI PARK ROAD in Denali National Park. The NPS is proposing to: Formalize approximately 73 intervisible passing pullouts between mileposts 73 and 86; Create two additional interpretive opportunity pullouts; Recondition the road surface between mileposts 79-84 by loosening the top two inches, reshaping the crown or superelevation, and adding 2 inches of gravel wear layer; Maintain a 22 foot width in 5 short segments with good visibility; Replace all 24 culverts in the project area; and Replace a road. To see the EA, go to protection device at the outlet of a beaver pond. To see the EA, go to http://parkplanning.nps.gov/document.cfm?parkId=9&projectId=18526&documentID=27807. For more information or to submit comments, contact Steve Carwile, DENA Compliance Project Manager, NPS Alaska Regional Office, by Fax 907-644-3803 or email Steve_Carwile@nps.gov. For additional information, contact project manager, Brad Ebel, at (907) 683-9556 or Steve Carwile at (907) - 644-3612.

July 9 Comments are due on PROPOSED STATE PARK REGULATION CHANGES affecting: The maximum that may be charged for boat launching would increase, to allow potential launch fee increases in areas to cover operating costs; Leash requirements for pets on certain trails; Closing the EKLUTNA LAKESIDE TRAIL to off-road vehicles between Dec. 1 and April 1, unless this area is otherwise closed to snowmobiles due to lack of snow, opening some trails to use of bicycles, and allowing the Director to close trails to horse use to protect trails from damage. Within WOOD-TIKCHIK STATE PARK, regulation changes would implement more specific zoning regulations for certain private lands within the park. For the KENAI RIVER SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREA, a new "no wake zone" is proposed within the channel north of the island located between river mile 15.2 and river mile 14.7, which includes the upstream and downstream entrances to Castaway Cove. STATEWIDE, the definition for snowmobiles is changed to preclude vehicles using "low pressure tires", to prevent use and damage by off-road vehicles on certain trails managed and groomed for use by snowmobiles. Proposed Changes to State Park Regulations are available at http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/asp/parkregchanges.pdf For more information, contact Chris Degernes at 907-269-8702 or email dnr.parkregs@alaska.gov. Send comments by e-mail to dnr.parkregs@alaska.gov or fax to 907-269-8907.

July 9 Deadline for comments on application for an OIL DISCHARGE PREVENTION and CONTINGENCY PLAN AMENDMENT from ExxonMobil to the POINT THOMSON DRILLING PROGRAM, located approximately 60 miles east of Prudhoe Bay at ExxonMobil’s Unit 3 pad, near the Beaufort Sea. Key modifications include additional portable fuel storage tanks. The on-site fuel tank Response Planning Standard (RPS) will increase to 4,900 bbls. A potential risk of oil spills entering the lands or waters of the State exists from this operation. Copies of the renewal application and plan are available for public review at the Dept. of Environmental Conservation’s Anchorage and Fairbanks offices. Send comments to the Department at Div. of Spill Prevention and Response, Industry Preparedness Program, 555 Cordova Street, Anchorage, AK 99501. For more information, contact (907) 269-3094.

July 9 Comments are due on the Environmental Assessment (EA) for HOONAH MOTORIZED VEHICLE ACCESS and TRAVEL MANAGEMENT (ATM) PROJECT. A decision on the project will determine how the district’s road system will be managed to meet public needs, safety and resource concerns, budget levels and Forest Plan objectives. The EA describes and analyzes one no-action alternative and one action alternative for motorized vehicle road and trail access on the Hoonah Ranger District, Tongass National Forest. The EA is available at www.tongass.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/projects/projects.shtml under Hoonah Ranger District. Got more information, contact Rich Jennings at 907-945-1201, or Michelle Putz at 907-747-4278. Submit comments to Hoonah Ranger by fax to 907-945-3385 or email comments-alaska-tongass-hoonah@fs.fed.us.

July 9 Deadline for comments on the proposal to issue a permit for the DISPOSAL of OIL-FIELD PRODUCED FLUIDS and NON-HAZARDOUS INDUSTRIAL WASTE FLUIDS at the DUCK ISLAND UNIT, Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program. The permit will allow for the drilling and construction of up to two cuttings reinjection (CRI) wells on the existing SDI for disposal of fluids that may include non-hazardous waste fluids, drilling muds and cuttings, effluent from a desalinization facility, stormwater, produced water, well workover fluids and camp wastewaters. The proposed first Cuttings Reinjection (CRI) well will be drilled to a final subsea depth of approximately 7,600 feet true vertical depth subsea (TVDss). EPA has considered available waste disposal options and determined that underground injection is the most appropriate disposal method for non-hazardous waste fluids and oilfield produced water. Class I injection wells are the most environmentally sound method for disposal of exempt and non-exempt waste fluids, including but not limited to treated effluent, and will meet the objective of minimum storage and zero discharge of oilfield production and domestic wastes to the surface waters of the North Slope. The geologic setting at the DIU-SDI location is very compatible with the proposed deep disposal process. The Ugnu and Sagavanirktok Formations have been successfully used to dispose over 1.8 billion barrels of produced water in the Prudhoe Bay Unit (PBU) and over 110 million barrels of slurry and associated water at the near-by PBU Grind and Inject facility. The proposed EPA Class I permit limits injection to the existing and naturally saline injection intervals in the Ugnu and West Sak Formations at approximately 5800 – 7850 feet TVDss. BPXA Endicott Satellite Drilling Island Fact Sheet is available at http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/water.nsf/Public+Notices/Permit+for+DIU+SDI/$FILE/BPXA%20LibertyFactSheet.pdf. BPXA Endicott Satellite Drilling Island Draft Permit is available at http://yosemite.epa.gov/r10/water.nsf/NPDES%20Permits/DraftPermitsAK/$FILE/AK0038661-EA.pdf. For more information or to submit comments, contact Thor Cutler at cutler.thor@epa.gov or 206-553-1673. Comments can also be made at www.epa.gov/r10earth/uic.htm.

July 10 Deadline for comments on the YUKON TANANA AREA PLAN (YTAP). The boundary of the YTAP contains approximately 6 million acres of general state owned or selected land and includes: land located within the western portion of the existing Tanana Basin Area Plan boundary; previously un-classified state owned and selected land northwest of Fairbanks (near Rampart); and state owned and selected land within the Denali Borough. Through these meetings DNR will explain the planning process, gather information on the planning area, and solicit your comments and input about how you use state lands, how you would like to see them used in the future, and discuss issues regarding the use of state lands and resources. For more information, contact Brandon McCutcheon, YTAP, Project Manager, at (907) 269-8536, Fax (907) 269-8915 or email brandon.mccutcheon@alaska.gov. To see the planning information, go to http://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/planning/areaplans/ytap.

July 10 Comments are due on the proposal to issue an AIR QUALITY PERMIT for the BP Exploration Alaska, Inc., SEAWATER INJECTION PLANT EAST to replace the main injection pump bundles associated with emission units (EU IDs 1 and 2). BPXA has redesigned the pump bundles to optimize flow and pump efficiency and proposes to install the new pump bundles at SIPE. Following installation of these pump bundles BPXA will have the potential to use more of the available horsepower from the combustion turbine drivers on both the main injection pumps and on the booster pumps (EU IDs 1 through 6). As a result, actual emissions from the combustion turbines will increase by 432.7 tpy of NOX. SIPE is currently permitted under Air Quality Operating/Construction. Copies of ADEC’s proposed permit and supporting documents are available http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or to submit comments, contact Frank Toth at (907) 269-6877; Fax 907-268=9-7508 or email frank.toth@alaska.gov

July 10 Comments are due on proposed changes in the regulations dealing WITH EMISSIONS INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES & AIR QUALITY CONTROL that would increase the time period during which a new model year vehicle is exempt from a vehicle emissions test and exempt vehicles with historic vehicle plates and custom collector plates from having to participate in the vehicle emissions testing program and update the federal reference for poverty guidelines for use in economic hardship waivers. Definitions of categories for exempt vehicles including “historic exhibition use,” “historic vehicle plate” and “custom collector plate”will be added. For more information or to submit comments, contact Scott Sloane at 907-465-5176, Fax (907) 465-5129 or email scott.sloane@alaska.gov.

July 11 Deadline for comments on the proposal to adopt regulation dealing with the Dept of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) the department’s ASSUMPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW, CONSULTATION, OR OTHER ACTION required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for federally funded highway projects. The department’s assumption of responsibility to review environmental impacts of highway projects is authorized the NEPA pilot program. The fiscal information is as follows: The new regulations proposed do not require an increase in appropriations. DOT&PF intends to execute an agreement with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that assigns to the state responsibility for making categorical exclusion (CE) determinations under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. The regulations provide for Alaska to participate in a five-state NEPA Pilot, which would require a separate agreement between DOT&PF and FHWA. The agreement for participation in the NEPA pilot has not been developed. For more information or to submit comments, contact William Ballard, Statewide Environmental Manager, at (907) 465-6954.

**July 13 Deadline for comments on the proposal for an ALASKA NET METERING STANDARD at the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA). Net Metering would allow a consumer to lower his or her energy load requirement by interconnecting on-site generation facilities to electric utility facilities. More information can be found at www.aknetmetering.com.

**July 15 Comments are due on the proposal to adopt regulation changes in the EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES, and AIR QUALITY CONTROL. that would increase the time period during which a new model year vehicle is exempt from a vehicle emissions test and exempt vehicles with historic vehicle plates and custom collector plates from having to participate in the vehicle emissions testing program. The proposed changes would update the federal reference for poverty guidelines for use in economic hardship waivers. The proposal to amend the State Air Quality Control Plan to update the Anchorage vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) program consistent with the changes to 18 AAC 52 and local ordinances; update the carbon monoxide (CO) contingency control measures that could be implemented if Anchorage exceeds the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for CO in the future; demonstrate that the changes to the Anchorage I/M program do not impact maintenance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for CO. For a copy of the proposed regulation changes and the Anchorage CO Maintenance Plan, go to http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or to submit comments, contact Scott Sloane at (907) 465-5176, FAX (907) 465-5129 or email scott.sloane@alaska.gov.

**July 15 KETCHIKAN - Comments are due on the Environmental Assessment (EA) on the proposed KETCHIKAN SHIPYARD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT that includes: construction of ship repair, maintenance, assembly shops and structures, security, and waste management facilities. The proposed shipyard improvements would provide for a broad mix of new-build and repair work and enable the shipyard to meet the transportation needs of the publicly owned marine transit system. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is currently evaluating the proposed alternatives. The EA is available at www.aidea.org. For more information or to submit comments, contact Karl Reiche at kreiche@aidea.org.

**July 15 Deadline for entries for the AUDUBON MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST - BIRDS IN FOCUS - created to celebrate the beauty and diversity of birdlife through the art of photography, and to honor the exceptional work of talented professional, amateur and youth photographers from all over the U.S. There are three categories: Professional, Amateur, and Youth. Photographers are encouraged to reveal a new angle or perspective in their work. Uncommon perspectives are welcome. The Award winners will be announced in December and will see their work showcased within the pages of both Audubon and Nature’s Best Photography magazines, as well as on their respective websites. An impressive array of prizes will be awarded, including top-of-the-line photo and optic equipment from award sponsor, Nikon. For details, visit www.AudubonMagazinePhotoAwards.com.

**July 16 Deadline for comments on the 2010-2013 AMATS TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP). The AMATS TIP is a multi-year program of transportation improvements that must be prepared so that the Anchorage area can qualify to receive funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Copies of the public review draft reports can be obtained at local libraries and the Draft Tables are available at http://www.muni.org/iceimages/transplan/2010-13%20Public%20Review%20Draft.pdf. For more information, call 343-7991.

**July 17 Deadline for comments on the proposed issuance of a class I uic permit for the DISPOSAL of OIL-FIELD PRODUCED FLUIDS AND NON-HAZARDOUS INDUSTRIAL WASTE FLUIDS at the BELUGA RIVER UNIT (BRU) in COOK INLET. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has direct implementation responsibility in Alaska for the regulation of Class I injection wells through the UIC program, which is authorized by Part C of the Safe Drinking Water Act. Class I injection wells are used for the deep disposal of industrial waste into naturally saline ground water, beneath any aquifers which could serve as current or future underground sources of drinking water (USDWs). There are several non-hazardous, Class-I-eligible clear fluid waste streams generated on the BRU field. These streams have historically been transported offsite, but could alternately be disposed of by injection into the Class I non-hazardous disposal well, well BRU 232-09, upon completion of the EPA permitting process. EPA is proposing to issue a Class I UIC permit to CPAI, which will allow for the conversion of an existing well (BRU 232-09), a former gas production well, to a Class I non-hazardous waste injection well for disposal of fluids that historically were transported off site. The bottomhole location of the existing well is located offshore at the BRU oilfield in Cook Inlet and the injection interval is over 3300 feet below the sea surface. EPA has considered available waste disposal options and has determined that Class I injection wells are the most environmentally sound method for disposal of exempt and non-exempt waste fluids at the BRU facility, including, but not limited to, treated effluent and oilfield produced fluids. Utilization of the Class I well BRU 232-09 will serve as a backup to well BRWD #1, will eliminate shipping of wastes to Lower 48 disposal sites, and will provide safe subsurface disposal in a controlled manner. Issuance of CPAI’s Class I UIC Permit Number AK-1014-A will allow EPA to maintain oversight and inspection of the well. The geologic setting at the BRU is compatible for waste disposal. The proposed EPA Class I permit limits injection to the existing and naturally saline injection intervals in the Sterling formation at approximately 3,100 to 3,400 feet below sea surface. Beluga River Unit Fact Sheet is available at http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/water.nsf/476d8e2e8829cf19882565d400706530/3c415aced5f53dcd882575d8007a48e4/

$FILE/CPAIBelugaFactSheet06152009.pdf. Draft Permit for Beluga River Unit can be seen at http://yosemite.epa.gov/R10/water.nsf/476d8e2e8829cf19882565d400706530/

3c415aced5f53dcd882575d8007a48e4/$FILE/CPAIwellBRU232-09Draft%20Permit06152009.pdf. For more information or to submit comments, contact Thor Cutler at (206) 553-1673 or via e-mail: cutler.thor@epa.gov.

**July 17 Comments are due on a proposal for DOT&PF to PURCHASE 1.76 ACRES (SIX PARCELS LOCATED on LAKE SPENARD DRIVE BEHIND the MILLENNIUM ALASKA HOTEL) at SPENARD LAKE. This property is identified in the 2007 LAKE HOOD MASTER Plan for acquisition “over time, as it becomes available for sale, and not through condemnation.” Purchase of this property would rectify the issues of off-airport aircraft parking and airport maintenance staff crossing of private property to maintain public facilities. DOT&PF is evaluating this proposal to determine its environmental effects. To comply with environmental regulations and protect natural and cultural resources, DOT&PF will prepare an Environmental Assessment. For more information, contact Michael Spangler, PLS, Project Manager at 266-2480 or email at michael.spangler@alaska.gov or Dan Golden, Environmental Team Leader at 269-0537 or email at dan.golden@alaska.gov. Send comments to Brian Elliott Environmental Manager, Preliminary Design and Environmental, Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, P.O. Box 196900, Anchorage, AK 99519-6900.

**July 18 DRAFT REVISED MARINE MAMMAL STOCK ASSESSMENT REPORTS (SARs) for the TWO STOCKS of POLAR BEAR and the PACIFIC WALRUS in ALASKA. The purpose of SARs is to identify marine mammal stocks most affected by interactions with commercial fisheries. These reports are periodically updated to reflect the most current information and the draft reports are available at: http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/mmm/walrus/reports.htm (for the walrus stock); and http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/mmm/polarbear/reports.htm (for the polar bear stocks). For more information or to submit comments, contact the Marine Mammals Management Office, 1011 East Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK 99503.

EVENTS & MEETINGS \ANCHORAGE - EAGLE RIVER & GIRDWOOD

**July 1 GREAT HORNED OWLS will be presented by GINA JAVUREK with Bird Treatment and Learning Center at 7pm at the BLM Campbell Creek Science Center (5600 Science Center Drive). Great horned owls are one of the biggest owls in Alaska—and a fairly common sight on Campbell Tract. Come meet a captive great horned owl and learn more about these magnificent hunters from Please call 267-1247 for more information.

July 8 TREE-RIFIC LUNCH AND LEARN - TREE WALK will be he ld from Noon to 1pm at Springer Park located on the east side of Arctic Blvd. Between 36th and 41st Avenues. This is a great opportunity to hear about the common insects in the Anchorage Bowl, hone up on your tree ID skills, learn about planting for design, sustainability and functionality and get answers to your questions about how to care for your trees. The tree walk will be led by Anchorage’s Municipal Forester SCOTT STRINGER, Cooperative Extension Service’s Integrated Pest Management Technician MICHAEL RASY and Alaska Division of Forestry’s Community Assistance Forester STEPHEN NICKEL. Please be dressed for the weather. For a map to the park, http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=103602834945368590677.00046c2f6186f2fd1bbb8&ll=61.18625,-149.897954&spn=0.002591,0.005933&t=h&z=17click here. If you have any questions, send an email to stringerst@muni.org or stephen.nickel@alaska.gov.

July 8 Public hearing will be held at the Planning & Zoning Commission on a request for a variance from for an OFF-PREMISE LIGHTED SIGN to be installed on the southeast corner of Elmore Road and University Lake Drive. UNIVERSITY LAKE SPRINGHILL SUITES, generally located east of Elmore Road and south of University Lake Drive. For more information, contact Tim Potter at tpotter@dowlhkm.com, FAX: 563-3953 or 562-2000.

**July 9 Public meeting will be held at the DHSS Lab, 4500 Boniface Parkway to engage those interested in participating in the development of an overall STRATEGY FOR PROTECTING THE PEOPLE AND ENVIRONMENT OF ALASKA from EXPOSURE TO CONTAMINANTS and sharing information on contaminants monitoring in Alaska. Hosted by: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, University of Alaska, State of Alaska, and Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. To participate, contact workshop facilitator Michael Conway at 907-523-1900 or Mike@MACleadership.com for details and pre-registration.

**July 9 Reception will be held from 5 to 7:30pm at the Hotel Captain Cook, Quarter Deck to meet LARRY SCHWEIGER, President & CEO, and JIM ADAMS. Pacific Region Executive Director of the National Wildlife Federation. Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP by July 3 to Heather McGee at mcgeeh@nwf.org or call 907-339-3901.

**July 9 ULTIMATE AMERICANS: POINT HOPE: 1826-1909 will be presented at Noon at the UAA Campus Bookstore by Ethnographer and Poet TOM LOWENSTEIN. In the 70's and 80's, Lowenstein recorded traditional narratives and songs at Point Hope and other Iñupiaq communities. His research resulted in two books, "Ancient Land, Sacred Whale" and "The Things That Were Said of Them." His latest book "Ultimate Americans: Point Hope, Alaska: 1826-1909, traces the impact of commercial whale hunters, traders, and missionaries on Point Hope, the oldest continuously inhabited village in North America. For more information contact Rachel Epstein at 786-4782.

July 10 SnowTRAC ADVISORY COMMITTEE will meet from 8am to 4pm Atwood Building (Suite 240) to discuss various SnowTRAC issues and the potential increase of snowmobile registration fees. Depending on the response from SnowTRAC applicants, nominations for the two vacant seats will be made. The public is welcome to join us.

**July 13 Public hearing will be held from Noon to 1:30pm at the ADEC Bayview Office Building, Conference Room A, 619 Ship Creek Drive, to take comments on the proposal to adopt regulation changes in the EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES, and AIR QUALITY CONTROL. that would increase the time period during which a new model year vehicle is exempt from a vehicle emissions test and exempt vehicles with historic vehicle plates and custom collector plates from having to participate in the vehicle emissions testing program. The proposed changes would update the federal reference for poverty guidelines for use in economic hardship waivers. The proposal to amend the State Air Quality Control Plan to update the Anchorage vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) program consistent with the changes to 18 AAC 52 and local ordinances; update the carbon monoxide (CO) contingency control measures that could be implemented if Anchorage exceeds the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for CO in the future; demonstrate that the changes to the Anchorage I/M program do not impact maintenance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for CO. For a copy of the proposed regulation changes and the Anchorage CO Maintenance Plan, go to http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/ap/calendar.htm. For more information or to submit comments, contact Scott Sloane at (907) 465-5176, FAX (907) 465-5129 or email scott.sloane@alaska.gov.

**July 14 Authors FRANCES RUHLEN MCCONNEL and D. BRUCE MEANS will be at the UAA Campus Bookstore at Noon to talk about their book ”Returning to Alaska: What Can Happen in 50 years.” McConnel and Means are two members of the first Anchorage High School graduating class of the new State of Alaska return to Alaska for their 50 year class reunion. Frances has become an accomplished poet and creative writing professor, author of “The Direction of Longing” and the book “White Birches, Black Water.” Bruce is an accomplished naturalist, author of “Stalking the Plumed Serpent” and “Adventures in Herpetology: 45 Years of a Field Ecologist's Encounters with Exotic Animals”, as well as numerous science books, documentaries and magazine articles. Everyone is invited to hear their stories. Frances Ruhlen McConnel's poetry themes are "Moose, Wolves, Cougars, Oh My!" and "An Angel's Wishbone, a Pierce-Arrow, and other Oddities" and D. Bruce Means will discuss "Snakebite" and "Giant Earthworm!". For more information contact Rachel Epstein at 786-4782.

**July 15 (Teleconference Available) ALASKA NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY meeting will be held at 9am in the Office of the AK Natural Gas Development Authority (ANGDA). 411 W. 4th Avenue, First Floor. Agenda includes: In-state gas pipeline project route evaluation criteria; Review of and follow-up to Propane Opportunities Conference; Release of ANGDA’s third “Report to the People”, Status of contractor work efforts, Year-end expenditure summary, and Work plan and budget for new fiscal year. The public is invited to participate in the meeting. To participate via telephone, call 1-800-315-6338. When asked for the pass code, enter 2020#, and then follow the instructions provided. A time for public comment will be made available during the meeting.

MEETINGS & EVENTS OUT OF ANCHORAGE

**July 7 FAIRBANKS - Public meeting will be held at the University of Alaska, Akasofu Building, to engage those interested in participating in the development of an overall STRATEGY FOR PROTECTING THE PEOPLE AND ENVIRONMENT OF ALASKA from EXPOSURE TO CONTAMINANTS and sharing information on contaminants monitoring in Alaska. Hosted by: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, University of Alaska, State of Alaska, and Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium. To participate, contact workshop facilitator Michael Conway at 907-523-1900 or Mike@MACleadership.com for details and pre-registration.

July 7 PALMER - WORMS & WORM COMPOSTING will be held from 6:30 to 8:30pm at VCRS (Valley Community for Recycling Solutions) on Palmer-Wasilla Highway. Tuition $10. Learn how to Set up your bin, what kind of worms will work, what to feed them, and how to harvest the compost. Instructor: ELLEN VANDE VISSE, Good Earth Garden School. Sign up to reserve a place (seating is limited unless you are very skinny) at information@goodearthgardenschool.com or call 907-745 0758 or go to. www.goodearthgardenschool.com.

July 8 FAIRBANKS - Visit with Alaska author DEBBIE MILLER 1 to 4pm. Free with museum admission..Miller’s book, BIG ALASKA: JOURNEY ACROSS AMERICA'S MOST AMAZING STATE, was released in March, 2006. Travel to Alaska's extraordinary wild places through the eyes of a bald eagle. It was recently awarded the 2007 Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children - National Science Teachers Association. Also, it's just been chosen for the 2008 Kentucky Bluegrass Book Award Master List. For more information on the author, visit http://www.debbiemilleralaska.com. For more information on the book signing, call 474-7505.

July 8 FAIRBANKS - DAVE PAYER, ecologist with the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, will share his expertise and experience floating the rivers of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from 7 to 8pm in the Schaible auditorium. Free.

July 9 FAIRBANKS - Free Movie -. PORTRAIT OF A LEGEND: TALKEETNA’S CLIFF HUDSON (2006) Directed by Thomas Stagg will be shown in the Schaible Auditorium at 7 p.m.. Cliff Hudson is a pioneer of glacier flying in Denali National Park and his skills as a bush pilot are truly unique. In Talkeetna as Hudson Air Service celebrated its 60th anniversary the people of the Upper Susitna Valley came together to recognize and pay tribute to the man who touched so many lives while pursuing his goal, “serving the locals.”(60 minutes).

**July 9 COPPER CENTER - The KENNY LAKE SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT BOARD will hold its regular monthly meeting at 7pm at NRCS/KLSWCD Office, Willow Loop Rd., 93.3 Mile Richardson Hwy. The public is encouraged to attend. Proposed agenda includes: GIS Equipment for Willow Creek Resource Assessment; Tonsina North Roads to Resources; Budgets amendments; and Board and Public comments. For more information, please contact Doug Vollman, KLSWCD District Manager at 907-822-4479 or email klswcd@kennylakeak.net.

**July 12 FAIRBANKS - BIRDATHON POTLUCK & TALLY RALLY will be held at 4pm at the Alaska Bird Observatory. Everyone is invited to enjoy Birdathon stories, great food, and the awards ceremony. Prizes are awarded for a variety of categories, and Alaska Airlines has generously donated two round-trip airline tickets (travel from Fairbanks to Seattle only). To be eligible for prizes, participants must turn in the Counter’s Report Form by Friday, June 26th. Only pledges turned in by July 8th will count towards awards.

**July 15 JUNEAU - Public scoping hearing will be held from 5:30 to 7pm in the Downtown Library Conference Room to take comments in preparation for the development of an Environmental Evaluation on the REPAIR AND UPGRADE OF THE BASIN ROAD TRESTLE BRIDGE. The Basin Road Trestle Bridge was built in 1936. In 2007, an inspection by the Alaska DOT&PF Bridge Design Section found deficiencies with the structure. The objective of this project is to replace the bridge deck, update the guard rail to current standards, and increase the load capacity. For further information regarding engineering issues, contact Arne Oydna, Engineering Manager, at (907) 465-4496. Contact Jane Gendron, Project Environmental Coordinator, at (907) 465-4499 regarding environmental issues. Send written comments to Jane Gendron at jane.gendron@alaska.gov or Fax: (907) 465-6216 by July 15.

**July 15 FAIRBANKS - A FREE lecture by noted author and educator, MARION NESTLE, will be held in the Davis Concert Hall at 7pm pm the POLITICS OF FOOD - PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY VS. SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. Marion Nestle is the author of three prize-winning books on nutrition including “Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health” (2002); “Safe Food: Bacteria, Biotechnology, and Bioterrorism” (2003), and “What to Eat” (2006). Her most recent book (published in 2008) is “Pet Food Politics: the Chihuahua in the Coal Mine.” She writes the ‘Food Matters’ column for the San Francisco Chronicle and co-writes a food and nutrition column for The Bark magazine.. She is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the James Beard Foundation, the food world’s highest honor. For more information, please call 474-7021 or email summer@uaf.ed.

**July 16 SITKA - *Public meeting will be held at Centennial Hall at 6pm to introduce the INTERPRETIVE PLANNING PROCESS to key stakeholders and interested members of the community. The project planner will present a general overview of the project's scope, goals and objectives, and general timeline. Participants will be given the opportunity to review materials, ask questions, and submit comments to the planning team. For more information contact Kathlene Rowell at kathlene.rowell@alaska.gov or 907-269-8742.

**July 17 FAIRBANKS - Author and composer JOHN LUTHER ADAMS will be signing copies of his recent book, The PLACE WHERE YOU GO TO LISTEN, which is based on his sound and light installation at the museum. Free with museum admission from 1 to 4pm at the Museum of the North. For more information, call 474-7505. For more information on the author, visit http://www.johnlutheradams.com/.

**July 16 HOUSTON - Public hearing will be held at 5pm at the Houston City Council on a GRAVEL EXTRACTION APPLICATION for Mat-Su Gravel Products to remove 1.5 million cubic yards of soil and aggregates for 10 to 12 years. About 50 acres of hills and ridges would be leveled off a 70-acre tract split by the Parks Highway just north of the fireworks stands. The land is zoned as residential.

**July 18 KETCHIKAN - CELEBRATING WILDFLOWERS with MARY STENSVOLD will be held from 10am to 2pm on a walk on the Revilla-Harriet Hunt Road (Starrigavan Recreation Area. Meet at the intersection of Revilla Road and Brown Mountain Road.. Find out what's flowering at Sitka. For more information, call 907-225-310.

ITEMS OF INTEREST

**WHY DO YOU LOVE THE TONGASS CONTEST. Deadline: August 31. Adult and Children’s categories. Maximum length: 750 words (ok if it’s shorter) May include photos. Submit essay and picture to www.seacc.org/essay. For more information, contact Laura at 907-586-6942 or email laura@seacc.org.

**Comment period for the BEAUFORT SEA PRELIMINARY BEST INTEREST FINDING has been extended to August 31. Once a finding has been written for an areawide sale, the department can conduct a lease sale in that same area each year for up to 10 years without repeating the finding process. The document, including maps, at http://www.dog.dnr.state.ak.us/oil/. The public is invited to comment on any aspect of the Preliminary Best Interest Finding. For more information or to submit comments, contact Saree Timmons at saree.timmons@alaska.gov or Fax (907) 269-8938.

**LEADERSHIP ANCHORAGE APPLICATIONS for the 2009-2010 class are now available online! Go to http://www.akhf.org/programs/leadership/leadership_applications.htmlfor the application, session schedule, and program frequently asked questions. As applications are received, interviews will be scheduled, with the final application deadline August 28. The program year begins with an overnight retreat in early October. Leadership Anchorage is a nationally recognized, rigorous program for adults, designed to expose the leaders of non-profit, neighborhood, business, semi-governmental and ethnic organizations to the larger power brokers of Anchorage and Alaska. For further information, contact Jim MacKenzie at 272-5324 or jmackenzie@akhf.org or go to http://www.akhf.org/programs/leadership/leadership_main.html and http://www.akhistorycourse.org/.

Scoping Comment Deadline has been extended on the UMED NORTHERN ACCESS ROUTE has been extended to September 30. This will provide time for returning college students to be notified of the proposal and have time to comment. Comments can be sent to http://www.hkminc.com/northernaccess/Default.htm.

ANCHORAGE ROTARY INTERNATIONAL’S AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM is seeking undergraduate and graduate students as well as qualified professionals who are interested in studying at an academic institution abroad for the 2010-2011 school year. Deadline for applications is August 15 and endorsed by a Rotary club in District 5010. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-September. To learn more about the Ambassadorial Scholarship Program or to obtain an application please go to www.rotary.org and click on the Students and Youth tab or contact Chris Thompson, Scholarship Chair, at 907-229 -2024 or email cthompsonr@gmail.com.

Alaska Conservation Alliance (ACA) announces the RENEWABLE ENERGY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PHOTO CONTEST that show off the creative things that you and your community are doing to become energy independent, to save on energy bills, and to reduce carbon emissions. Write a short descriptive blurb (up to 500 words) to go with the photo submission. The winners will be featured on the ACAon our website in our "energy spotlight" section. Prizes include a lodge get-a-way for two, a full-boat fishing trip, REI gear, and more. Photos can be submitted online at www.akvoice.org, emailed to acaphotocontest@gmail.com or mailed to Laura Silverman Alaska Conservation Alliance 810 N Street Suite 203 Anchorage, AK 99501. The deadline is July 27.

Total Reclaim will only accept BATTERIES FOR RECYCLING that have the TERMINALS TAPED with electrical or similar tape. This is a requirement to avoid setting fires. For more information, go to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration at http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/portal/site/PHMSA/menuitem.ebdc7a8a7e39f2e55cf2031050248a0c/?vgnextoid=d13ff9ecdd8d0210VgnVCM1000001ecb7898RCRD&vgnextchannel=fe02d95c4d037110

VgnVCM1000009ed07898RCRD&vgnextfmt=print.

STRATEGIC PLANNING SURVEY for INVASIVE WEEDS AND AGRICULTURAL PEST MANAGEMENT will be taken off line at the end of June. The survey is located at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=GESh4pFp13uzaowgaanoHA_3d_3d For more information, go to http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/ag/ag_pmc.htm.

STRATEGIC INTERAGENCY RESPONSE to DYNAMIC CHALLENGES at the KENAI-RUSSIAN RIVER COMPLEX REPORT is available at http://fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5066009.pdf. The intent of this strategic plan is to help guide interagency management of the area over a 5-7 year time-frame. To ensure effective implementation of this plan, additional interagency and intra-agency operating procedures may need to be developed in concert with this plan but through independent processes.

VOLUNTEERS OPPORTUNITIES

ALASKA CENTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT is needs volunteers to help spread the word about the importance of transitioning our economy to a CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE and COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGE. Please contact sara@akcenter.org for more information regarding how you can make a difference regarding climate change.

VALLEY COMMUNITY FOR RECYCLING SOLUTIONS has a new TWELVE MONTH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY through the VOLUNTEERS in SERVICE to AMERICA (VISTA) Program. The twelve months run from August 17, 2009 to August 16, 2010. VISTA pays a stipend of $1,088 per month, along with several other benefits (e.g. health and child care). Interested individuals need to apply online at http://www.americorps.gov/. To find the VCRS assignment (job) description and to make application, go to https://my3.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do;jsessionid=

22645d95f3c25e9e01d96defee228ac00a0daf9084104494e1614c9bd1a512c1.e34ObNmSaxeQe3mTch8Qch8Na41

ynknvrkLOlQzNp65In0?fromSearch=true&id=32355&SID=22645d95f3c25e9e01d96defee228ac00a0daf9084104494e1614c9bd1a512c1. Deadline for applications: June 26. For more information, contact Executive Director Mollie Boyer at 745-5495 or at solutions@valleyrecycling.org.

SOUTHEAST ALASKA CONSERVATION COUNCIL (SEACC) in Juneau is looking for someone who would like to PUT ON A BEAR SUIT and help them reach out to visitors. Email April at april@seacc.org today.

Join a CHUGACH NATIONAL FOREST RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE. These committees will bring together diverse interests to collectively identify and propose projects that improve existing infrastructure, enhance forest ecosystems, and restore land health and water quality on National Forest land and adjacent properties. The Chugach National Forest is currently accepting applications from individuals interested in serving on a committee. Go to http://fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5058714.pdf for more information.

The KACHEMAK BAY RESEARCH RESERVE is looking for interested people to serve on our 9-member COMMUNITY COUNCIL (see http://www.habitat.adfg.state.ak.us/geninfo/kbrr/council/index.html). The Council is a great opportunity to become involved and learn more about what staff at the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve (KBRR) are doing in and around our bay. Contact Terry Thompson at terry.thompson@alaska.gov for more information, or download the application form at http://www.habitat.adfg.state.ak.us/geninfo/kbrr/council/Council_App_09.doc.

INTERNSHIPS

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

**OFFICE MANAGER for TRUSTEES FOR ALASKA, a non-profit public interest environmental law firm, located in Anchorage. Successful candidates will have strong organizational and administrative skills and the ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks. The office manager provides support services to the program and development staff including but not limited to managing the organization’s finances, maintenance of the filing system, human resources and IT support and database management. Must have QuickBooks, MS Word and Excel experience. Experience with managing WEB sites is a plus. Send resume w/cover letter and 3 refs by July 10 to George Page, Trustees for Alaska, gpage@trustees.org.

**OPERATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION MANAGER for RENEWABLE RESOURCES COALITION located in Anchorage. Reports to the Executive Director and works closely with all RRC staff individually. RRC is an Alaskan non-profit 501 c (6) corporation founded by Alaskans. The mission of the Renewable Resources Coalition is to preserve and protect the ongoing viability of Alaska’s abundant fishing and hunting resources and the lands and waters they need to survive. Responsibilities: Data Management; Process and assist in all regional financial requests; Manage, track and allocate expenses, revenues, new grants, grant proposals, and letters of inquiry; Monitor to ensure all financial deadlines are met; Manage and enter new membership accounts and donations within Microsoft Excel, Access, and Constant Contact; Ensure projects are effective, within budget, and meet RRC expectations; and Assist with communications tools such as the RRC website, email newsletter, mailings, and list serves. Minimum Qualifications Skills and Traits: Bachelors degree, management or leadership training helpful. Formal training in administration and accounting essential. Relevant work experience in accounting, budgeting, and executive assistance. Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal skills. Must have the ability to deal appropriately with confidential and sensitive matters. Salary: Commensurate with experience. Application Process: Please submit your cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references to info@renewableresourcescoalition.org . Successful applicants must be willing to complete a background investigation. Applications accepted until July 15.

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR for ALASKA CONSERVATION ALLIANCE (ACA) and ALASKA CONSERVATION VOTERS (ACV). This position presents qualified applicants an opportunity to work with one of the leading environmental organizations in Alaska in a supportive, teamwork-focused, results oriented work environment. RESPONSIBILITIES: Direct mail, events, grants, major donor program, direct solicitation, fundraising planning and implementation. The Development Director will report to the Executive Director, and will supervise one part-time employee. Applicants should possess: Diversified fundraising experience with a focus on major gifts. Excellent time management and organizational skills. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal and the ability to interact with people at all levels. Track record of developing creative fundraising strategies, persistent follow-up and thinking “outside the box.” Familiarity with current software applications including the MS office suite; familiarity with GiftWorks or other donor tracking software a plus. Four-year college degree or equivalent work experience required. Bachelor’s degree with an advanced degree in relevant field desirable. Knowledge of Alaska, history of community involvement and familiarity with the Northwest environmental community a plus. Good sense of humor a must! Salary is $45,000 - $55,000 DOE, plus health, dental and employer retirement contribution after vesting. This is a full-time, exempt position; residency in or around Anchorage is preferred. ACA and ACV are equal opportunity employers. For full job description please visit www.akvoice.org or www.acvoters.org. Position open until filled. To apply, send cover letter, resume, three references and a writing/work product sample to: Caitlin Higgins, Executive Director Alaska Conservation Alliance | Alaska Conservation Voters 810 N Street, Suite 203 Anchorage, AK 99501 E-mail: caitlin@akvoice.org.

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR for the ALASKA CENTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT (ACE) in Anchorage. The Communications Coordinator will work as part of a 3-person Membership team. Primary responsibilities will include managing the ACE web site, producing the quarterly newsletter, overseeing graphic design needs, and assisting with database entry. Job duties will also include updating the website, designing and editing the quarterly newsletter, creating and distributing weekly email alerts to members, assisting with database entry, designing posters, brochures, and other communication pieces, and assisting the Membership Director with membership fundraising. This is a part time position. For a full job description and qualifications please visit www.akcenter.org. Compensation: Depends on experience. To apply: Send cover letter, resume, and one writing sample to ace@akcenter.org. Position open until filled.

EXHIBITS TECHNICIAN for the ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER in Seward. This position is responsible for assisting with developing and producing materials that interpret ongoing research and support the educational outreach program at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Duties will include: Producing printed materials such as brochures, fliers, posters, etc; assisting with the design, fabrication, and installation of exhibits, exhibit graphics, and informational and educational signage; researching, developing, and writing informational and educational signage; preparing images and illustrations for exhibits, posters, and publications; laying out exhibit graphics with graphic editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator; printing and finishing graphic panels; assisting with improvements or replacing existing signage as needed; preparing three-dimensional props and interactive elements; utilizing digital video and still camera equipment to capture various ASLC activities to be used as elements in exhibits or video based products; interacting with husbandry and research personnel. An Associate’s degree in art, natural sciences, graphic design, museum studies, or a related field and one year experience producing exhibit graphics and/or multimedia educational material in a public exhibit setting; or high school diploma and two years experience producing exhibit graphics and/or multimedia educational material in a public exhibit setting required. This is a regular, full-time position with benefits. To view complete job description, go to www.alaskasealife.org. To apply, email a resume and application (downloadable on the website) to HR@alaskasealife.org. Application deadline is July 10. Start date – ASAP. For more information, contact HR at HR@alaskasealife.org or call 907-224-6313.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR for TRUSTEES for ALASKA, a nonprofit public interest law firm based in Anchorage Alaska. The Executive Director must possess the organizational skills to lead a nonprofit public interest law firm and be creative in designing programs and in developing innovative partnerships to advance the core values and mission of the organization. The Executive Director will also be responsible for continuing to build a sustainable funding base; reaching out to major donors and to private and family foundations; and supporting the professional development of staff. The Executive Director will serve as the lead spokesperson for the organization. The ability for the Executive Director to serve in a public spokesperson role is critical to the success of the organization. The Executive Director will be responsible for fundraising, strategic planning, Board development and management and operations. Qualifications: The Executive Director must be a skilled leader and manager, capable of directing, motivating and developing staff while building an organizational infrastructure to support a growing organization. The Executive Director reports to the Board and oversees all staff, including direct supervision of the Finance Director, the Legal Director and development staff. The new Executive Director must have the experience and ability to: Work with the Board, key stakeholders and staff in designing and implementing an organizational strategy which is capable of advancing a sustainable organizational structure to support future growth; Continue to expand the financial base of the organization, pursuing philanthropic funding sources and other creative sources of revenue, to advance a sustainable and financially robust organization. The Executive Director should possess the following professional qualifications and personal attributes: A passionate commitment to Trustees for Alaska’s mission and the role of environmental law; Demonstrated fundraising ability, particularly with individuals, family and private foundations; A background in environmental law is strongly preferred, but not required; Articulate, with a proven ability to write and speak persuasively and effectively; and High energy level. Compensation: Compensation established for this position includes a salary comparable to similar positions in the nonprofit sector and an excellent package of employee and health benefits. Interested candidates should mail a resume to: Stephen E. Cotton, Acting Executive Director, Trustees for Alaska, 1026 W Fourth Ave, Ste 201, Anchorage, AK 99501, Fax 907.276.7110 or email a resume to Karen Joynt at kjoynt@trustees.org. For more information on Trustees for Alaska visit our website: www.trustees.org.

THREE AMERICORPS POSITIONS are available with the ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER in Seward. These AmeriCorps Members will participate in daily mammal or avian husbandry or laboratory procedures as well as educational activities at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Members will be expected to participate in educational outreach throughout their term. Creation of educational presentations for the purpose of this community outreach will be strongly encouraged. Participation with other ASLC conservation efforts, i.e. recycling team, will be highly encouraged. In addition, the Member will be required to choose an individual community service project within the town of Seward for weekly community service. Strong emphasis will be given to projects that are education based and/or serve a strong community need. Members will also be required to participate in a group community service project once a month within the town of Seward or the surrounding area. Members must be team players with some college, although college graduates are preferred. Must have good oral and written skills, be able to follow written and oral instructions and be able to lift 50 pounds. Must be at least 21 years of age to apply. Applicants should be committed to the goals and mission of the Alaska SeaLife Center and the AmeriCorps, should have an interest and/or background in Education, and have a strong interest and/or background in community service. Strong interest and/or experience in marine animal husbandry or laboratory techniques, research, and conservation a plus. Applicants with previous marine animal training or laboratory experience preferred, although not required. These are full time positions starting 8/24/09 and ending 7/23/10. AmeriCorps provides Members with a monthly living stipend and an education award upon successful completion of the program. Application deadline is July 1. For more information please contact Jenelle Gilding at 907-224-6307 or email volunteer_intern@alaskasealife.org. More information can be found on the volunteer page of the Alaska SeaLife Center at www.alaskasealife.org.

CHIEF SCIENTIST for ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER in Seward to expand marine research and education programs to meet the ever increasing need for better scientific information to underpin marine policy and to help Alaskan communities manage the State’s vast marine resources sustainability. Applicants should have a Ph.D. in ecology, zoology, wildlife or conservation biology, marine science, oceanography, fisheries, engineering or a related field and 10 years experience in field or laboratory marine research, including project budgeting and management, with 7 years at a supervisory level preferred. This is a full-time position. The Alaska SeaLife Center offers a competitive wage (DEO) with great benefits. Full job description is available at www.alaskasealife.org/. Send CV to President and CEO Dr. Ian Dutton ian_dutton@alaskasealife.org. Please contact Dr. Ian Dutton or Dr. Tara Riemer Jones at (907) 224-6349 for further details.

The Alaska Women's Environmental Network is a program of the National

Wildlife Federation Alaska office.  AWEN's mission is to create networking

opportunities and training programs that empower women and further their leadership in

Alaska's conservation efforts in order to protect Alaska's rich natural

heritage. To learn more about AWEN, please go to http://www.nwf.org/women.