Timber sales are intended to stimulate the local economy, but timber industry groups say that the U.S.Forest Service hasn’t made enough Tongass logs available to keep the industry alive.
Southeast
Halibut catch for Southeast Alaska could drop for 2017
Managers of halibut in the Pacific will be setting catch limits in January and could be considering a small decrease for commercial and guided sport fishing fleets in Southeast Alaska.
2 Alaska Airlines flights hit by lightning in Alaska
Two Alaska Airlines flights were struck by lightning Monday, causing them to be removed from service so they could be inspected for any damage.
Walker proposes stable Fish and Game budget
Gov. Bill Walker proposed cutting about 45 positions and $3.5 million from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s 2018 budget last week, significantly smaller than the $11.5 million in cuts over the last two years.
Town hall meetings to discuss trooper vacancy in Haines postponed
Two meetings scheduled this week to discuss an Alaska State Trooper vacancy in Haines have been postponed.
Bidder chosen for 855-acre Haines timber sale
The largest Haines State Forest timber sale in decades is moving forward. The State Division of Forestry selected a bidder for the 855-acre Baby Brown sale on Thursday.
Southeast’s Dungeness harvests lower than expected
The Dungeness crab fall harvest for Southeast Alaska was about 150,000 pounds lighter than managers expected and it’s far below the five-year average.
State extends $6.5 million Skagway port grant for second time
The Skagway Borough has bought more time from the state to clear the way for city dock improvements.
Budget leaves ferry schedule as is, for now
Walker’s spending plan for the fiscal year beginning in July proposes a $2.8 million, or 2 percent, budget cut.
University of Alaska consolidates to single College of Education, UAS takes lead
The University of Alaska is moving from three colleges of education to one and the board of regents gave UAS authority over that school. Originally the board was going to consider giving the role to UAF in Fairbanks.