Geologists find more volcanoes, lava, in Southeast
If you’ve spent any time in Sitka, you’ve probably seen Mount Edgecumbe. It’s one of Southeast Alaska’s most-viewed volcanoes, rising 3,000 feet from the ocean, only 10 miles from the former Russian capital.
It last erupted about 4,500 years ago, which is recent in the world of geology. But other volcanic sites in the region have seen more recent action.
Bill would expand geoduck farms to Gulf of Alaska
Legislation allowing geoduck farming to expand north and west is moving in the state Senate.
The measure would allow the large, valuable clams to be grown north of their natural realm. That ends around Juneau.
Otter measure drops whole-pelt sales provision
The House Resources Committee has approved a scaled-back measure aimed at increasing sea otter harvests. It’s a significant change for the resolution authored by Wrangell Representative Peggy Wilson.
Tlingit clan conference set for this spring in Sitka
Anthropologists, linguists and elders will gather in Sitka this spring for a conference of Tlingit tribes and clans. It coincides with the 100-year anniversary of Alaska Native Brotherhood, the state’s oldest indigenous-rights association.
Southeast Native leader opposes oil tax cuts
A key Southeast Native leader is asking the Legislature to not lower oil taxes. Tlingit-Haida Central Council President Ed Thomas says Alaska needs the revenue. He also says oil companies are already making huge profits.
Native groups oppose expanded otter pelt sales
Several Alaska Native organizations oppose a legislative effort to increase sea otter harvests.
Veterans’ job measure passes House, Senate
Alaska’s House and Senate have passed bills aimed at easing veterans’ chances of getting jobs. The measures direct the state to consider military training and experience when granting professional licenses. Alaska licenses about 40 professions, from barbers to contractors to nurses.
Will the Costa wreck hurt Alaska’s cruise industry?
You’ve probably heard that cruise-ship bookings took a dive after the Costa Concordia hit a reef and partially sunk. But are travelers avoiding cruising or just delaying ticket purchases? And what does it mean for Alaska tourism?
Budget bill boosts logging
The most recent Interior Department appropriations bill includes provisions aimed at helping Alaska’s struggling timber industry. But one group says they go too far.
