Scientists and fishermen are following news of a deadly fish virus found in British Columbia salmon. It’s a scary situation, but it may not be as bad as it sounds, at least for now. And it’s not a threat to people who eat salmon.
Ed Schoenfeld, CoastAlaska
Omnibus lands bill could include Sealaska measure
It looks like the Sealaska land-selection legislation will become part of a larger bill that could be easier to pass. At least that’s the case in the U.S. Senate. Meanwhile, opponents continue lobbying against the measure.
Coast Guard charges helo crash survivor in crewmates’ deaths
The U.S. Coast Guard has brought criminal charges against the sole survivor of a 2010 helicopter crash in which three people from Air Station Sitka died. Lieutenant Lance Leone is facing possible court martial for negligence and the death of two of his crewmates.
Federal cuts could threaten ferry repairs
The Alaska Marine Highway System could be another casualty of federal budget battles. Money used to repair and maintain the aging ferry fleet could become much tighter in the near future.
Advisory panel chimes in on transportation plan
Alaska’s ferry advisory panel wants a few changes in Southeast’s transportation system. That could include new roads, such as one across Baranof Island from Sitka, that would shorten ferry routes.
Sealaska defaults on part of California casino land
Sealaska has lost some its California casino land to foreclosure. But the regional Native corporation says it won’t hinder the project. The hundred-million-dollar-plus hotel and casino will be built about 85 miles north of San Francisco.
Timber task force pushing for jobs
Alaska’s Timber Jobs Task Force is looking for ways to increase logging and milling employment. It recently held its fifth meeting in Coffman Cove, on Prince of Wales Island.
ANB, ANS adopt joint constitution
The Alaska Native Brotherhood and Sisterhood are becoming closer. The longtime Southeast advocacy groups voted last week to work under the same, updated constitution. Before, they were separate.
Geothermal energy interest grows in Alaska
Several Alaska communities are making plans for geothermal generation of electricity. They’re also learning from existing projects – and mistakes.
Timber Task Force meets in Coffman Cove
A state-sponsored economic development panel wants suggestions for creating new timber industry jobs.
The Alaska Timber Jobs Task Force will hear comments from the public during a meeting Friday and Saturday in Coffman Cove. The town is a former logging camp on Prince of Wales Island.