Legislature(2025 - 2026)BUTROVICH 205
04/25/2025 03:30 PM Senate RESOURCES
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB176 | |
| SB180 | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): Board of Game | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): State Assessment Review Board | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): Board of Fisheries | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| *+ | SB 32 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SB 180 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| = | SB 176 | ||
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE RESOURCES STANDING COMMITTEE
April 25, 2025
3:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Cathy Giessel, Chair
Senator Bill Wielechowski, Vice Chair
Senator Matt Claman
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Senator Scott Kawasaki
Senator Shelley Hughes
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Robert Myers
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SENATE BILL NO. 176
"An Act approving and ratifying the sale of royalty oil by the
State of Alaska to Marathon Petroleum Supply and Trading Company
LLC; and providing for an effective date."
- MOVED SB 176 OUT OF COMMITTEE
SENATE BILL NO. 180
"An Act relating to the regulation of liquefied natural gas
import facilities by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska."
- HEARD & HELD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF GAME
- HEARD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): ALASKA COMMERCIAL FISHERIES ENTRY
COMMISSION
- HEARD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 176
SHORT TITLE: APPROVE MARATHON PETRO ROYALTY OIL SALE
SPONSOR(s): RULES BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR
04/15/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/15/25 (S) RES, FIN
04/23/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
04/23/25 (S) Heard & Held
04/23/25 (S) MINUTE(RES)
04/25/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
BILL: SB 180
SHORT TITLE: LNG IMPORT FACILITIES
SPONSOR(s): RESOURCES
04/22/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/22/25 (S) RES, L&C
04/25/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
WITNESS REGISTER
RYAN FITZPATRICK, Commercial Manager
Division of Oil and Gas
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided an overview of SB 176 on behalf of
the administration.
CASEY SULLIVAN, Government and Public Affairs Manager
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of SB 176.
INTIMAYO HARBISON, Staff
Senator Cathy Giessel
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions on SB 180 on behalf of
the Senate Resources Committee, Senator Giessel, Chair.
AL BARRETTE, Appointee
Board of Game
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Game.
VIRGIL UMPENHOUR, representing self
North Pole, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Mr. Barrette to the Board of Game.
CARRI ANN MUELLER, Appointee
Board of Game
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Game.
MARK RICHARDS, Executive Director
Resident Hunters of Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointments of
Ms. Mueller and Mr. Barrette to the Board of Game.
RICK GREEN, Appointee
Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission.
THOMAS CARPENTER, Appointee
Board of Fisheries
Cordova, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as the governor's appointee to the
Board of Fisheries.
BOB MURPHY, representing self
Kodiak, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Mr. Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
DAN MACDONALD, representing self
Bellingham, Washington
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Mr. Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
STEVE BROWN, President
Concerned Area M Fishermen
Homer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Mr. Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
ROBERT HEYANO, representing self
Dillingham, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Mr. Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:30:50 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL called the Senate Resources Standing Committee
meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. Present at the call to order were
Senators Dunbar, Kawasaki, Claman, and Chair Giessel. Senators
Wielechowski and Hughes arrived thereafter.
SB 176-APPROVE MARATHON PETRO ROYALTY OIL SALE
3:31:38 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 176
"An Act approving and ratifying the sale of royalty oil by the
State of Alaska to Marathon Petroleum Supply and Trading Company
LLC; and providing for an effective date."
3:32:04 PM
RYAN FITZPATRICK, Commercial Manager, Division of Oil and Gas,
Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Juneau, Alaska, said SB
176 would approve the sale of Alaska's royalty oil to Marathon
Petroleum Corporation. He explained that DNR negotiates
contracts with in-state refiners for the sale of Alaska's
royalty oil in-kind to those refineries. The contracts go
through a public process, a best interest finding (DNR), a
Royalty Board review, and approval by the legislature.
3:33:00 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on SB 176.
3:33:18 PM
CASEY SULLIVAN, Government and Public Affairs Manager, Marathon
Petroleum Corporation, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in support
of SB 176. He said the availability, flexibility, and stability
of the contract would have a positive impact on Marathon
Petroleum Corporation's (Marathon) ability to optimize ongoing
operations. He said that Marathon's Kenai refinery is one of the
longest in-state manufacturers producing quality transportation
fuel. The facility can produce up to 60 thousand barrels of
crude oil per calendar day. The refinery primarily produces
gasoline, jet fuel, diesel, and other products such as propane
and asphalt. These are distributed from Nikiski to North Pole
and beyond, through terminals at Kenai, North Pole, and the Port
of Alaska. Marathon employes over 300 Alaskans. He stated that
SB 176 would ratify the new proposed contract, which is the
result of positive negotiations between Marathon and DNR. He
expressed appreciation for the professionalism of DNR throughout
the process. He opined that the contract, which would allow
Marathon to purchase oil at a premium, is a win for both
Marathon and the State of Alaska. He said Marathon is committed
to continuing its legacy of safely and reliably producing
quality fuel products.
3:33:31 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI joined the meeting.
3:35:31 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN noted that SB 176 includes a three-year contract
with 7 one-year extension options, which is a ten-year proposal.
He asked if Marathon has had similar contracts in the past or
whether contracts are typically a shorter duration.
3:36:00 PM
MR. SULLIVAN replied that contract times have generally been
three to five-years; however, Marathon contracts have previously
utilized the one-year extensions. He stated that the extensions
have proved very useful and provide increased flexibility. He
clarified that, while Marathon has had contracts for more than 5
years, none have reached 10 years.
3:36:49 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on SB 176.
3:36:58 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL solicited the will of the committee.
3:37:01 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI moved to report SB 176, work order 34-
GS1086\A, from committee with individual recommendations and
attached fiscal note(s). He gave authorization for Legislative
Legal Services to make technical and conforming changes.
3:37:16 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL found no objection and SB 176 was reported from
the Senate Resources Standing Committee.
SB 180-LNG IMPORT FACILITIES
3:37:27 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 180
"An Act relating to the regulation of liquefied natural gas
import facilities by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska."
3:40:18 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL said that SB 180 repeals AS 42.05.711(v). She
explained that this would return the authority to regulate the
import of liquified natural gas (LNG) to the Regulatory
Commission of Alaska (RCA). She stated that the legislature
repealed this authority during the previous legislative session.
She presented the sectional analysis for SB 180:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Senate Bill 180 (version A)
Sectional Analysis
Section 1: Repeals AS 42.05.711(v)
AS 42.05.711(v) a liquefied natural gas import
facility under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission is exempt from this chapter.
CHAIR GIESSEL explained that AS 42.05 addresses the RCA. She
said that SB 180 is necessary to ensure consumer protection. She
stated that RCA regulates the rates that energy utilities can
charge. SB 180 does not expand the jurisdiction of RCA to a
privately held import terminal; rather, it clarifies RCA
jurisdiction over certificated utilities' gas-supply contracts
from an LNG import terminal. SB 180 would treat those gas supply
contracts the same as supply contracts from any Cook Inlet
producer. She said that prior to the addition of AS 42.05.711(v)
(which gives the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
jurisdiction), RCA had the authority to regulate the import of
LNG. She clarified that FERC has authorization to regulate the
facilities, not the price of the commodity. Therefore, the
addition of AS 42.05.711(v) has created confusion.
3:40:37 PM
INTIMAYO HARBISON, Staff, Senator Cathy Giessel, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced himself.
3:40:52 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN sought confirmation of his understanding that RCA
would not regulate LNG import facilities; however, RCA would
regulate the sale of LNG supplied through those import
facilities to energy utilities throughout the state.
3:41:25 PM
MR. HARBISON confirmed this understanding.
3:41:31 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL shared that RCA recently oversaw -and denied- a
request from Enstar Natural Gas (Enstar) that would have
increased the price on imported LNG. She emphasized that
consumer protection is the function of RCA. She explained that
FERC already has jurisdiction over the facilities and the
insertion of AS 42.05.711(v) at the end of the previous
legislative session created confusion about RCA's jurisdiction
over the cost of the commodity.
3:42:43 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR asked for confirmation that the legislature
approved this provision during the previous legislative session.
SENATOR GIESSEL confirmed this understanding.
SENATOR DUNBAR stated that he could not recall legislation that
dealt with this specific issue and surmised that it was part of
a broader package. He wondered why the legislature made the
change and asked for additional information.
3:43:20 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL explained that the Senate Finance Committee added
the provision to House Bill 50, which related to carbon
sequestration. She noted that the Senate Finance Committee did
not hold discussion on the provision.
3:43:56 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL held SB 180 in committee.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF GAME
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF GAME
3:44:08 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointees Al Barrette and Carri Ann Mueller to the Board of
Game.
CHAIR GIESSEL provided an overview of the Board of Game. The
board is made up of seven members, appointed by the governor.
Appointees are chosen based on an interest in public affairs,
good judgement, knowledge, and ability in the field of action of
the board. The function of the Board of Game is conservation and
development of game resources. Board members are compensated at
an executive range 29(a) ($40.13/hour) for regulatory meetings.
Other meetings are compensated at half of this amount. She noted
that Mr. Barrette is a reappointment to the board.
3:46:03 PM
AL BARRETTE, Appointee, Board of Game, Fairbanks, Alaska, gave a
brief overview of his employment history. He said that, if
reappointed to the Board of Game, he would continue to provide
historical background to many wildlife issues across the state.
He stated that he is able to apply his knowledge of conservation
biology and subsistence alongside the Constitution of the State
of Alaska and Alaska Statutes. He emphasized his understanding
of urban and rural issues. He opined that the best part of board
meetings is public and advisory personal testimony, which brings
new perspectives and knowledge to the issues under
consideration. This can include background information and
cultural information provided by indigenous elders. It can also
include users' field observations as well as observations from
non-consumptive users.
MR. BARRATTE said that, as a board member, he is available for
discussions with those who have issues or want to learn, and he
attends many advisory committee meetings. He said that social
issues are the most difficult, as those decisions are related to
the impact of human-to-human interactions rather than science.
He emphasized that his decisions are based on science and/or the
best data available. He said that, if approved as a member of
the board, he would continue to listen and learn. He stated that
he supports the best process of regulating, providing, managing,
and allocating wildlife resources for both consumptive and non-
consumptive users, and making decisions using the best data
available. He stated that this would provide the opportunity for
future generations to utilize these resources.
3:49:25 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on the appointment of Mr.
Barrett to the Board of Game.
3:49:52 PM
VIRGIL UMPENHOUR, representing self, North Pole, Alaska,
testified in support of the appointment of Mr. Barrette to the
Board of Game. He said he owns a meat and fish processing
business in Fairbanks and is a master hunting guide. He shared
that he has known Mr. Barrette for over 20 years and has worked
with him in several capacities - including service on the
Fairbanks Fish and Game Advisory Committee. He said that Mr.
Barrette is knowledgeable, a problem-solver, a good listener,
and is highly focused on resource conservation.
3:52:37 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL invited the governor's appointee to the Board of
Game, Carri Ann Mueller, to introduce herself and tell the
committee why she would like to serve on the board.
3:53:08 PM
CARRI ANN MUELLER, Appointee, Board of Game, Palmer, Alaska,
expressed her interest, qualifications, and desire to serve on
the Board of Game as a wildlife resource. She noted that the
Board of Game provides an open and public process for the State
of Alaska's wildlife regulatory system. She shared her belief
that public involvement is critical for wildlife education,
awareness, and management. She shared a brief overview of her
personal experience as it relates to the Board. She highlighted
work experience in the outdoor industry and noted that her work
is primarily focused on promoting outdoor adventure, fishing,
hunting, travel, and tourism in Alaska. She said she has
dedicated time to learning about the various cultures around the
state. She said she has developed a passion for understanding
the different cultures and ways of life - and how different
cultures utilize Alaska's wildlife resources.
MS. MUELLER said that she has served on a variety of boards. She
has also volunteered time, fundraising for various nonprofit
programs related to conservation, education, and the Alaska
outdoor lifestyle. She said she has been volunteering with the
Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) for many years. She
briefly described her volunteer work, which included helping
with various ADF&G youth programs. She has also volunteered with
the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. She recently became an
instructor with ADF&G for the Alaska Hunter Education Course and
the Becoming an Outdoors-women (BOW) program. She said she
mentors women in a mountain biking group and shared that this
led to the creation of a women's hunting group. The women's
hunting group encourages new hunters and build confidence
through wilderness education and safety. She said she has hunted
in 14 of the state's 26 game units and briefly described the
various transport and guide services utilized. She expressed her
commitment to following the scientific data provided by ADF&G
biologists and staff, listening to input from Alaska wildlife
troopers, and working with the 82 advisory committees across the
state. She stated that Alaskans and user groups that enjoy the
outdoors are of primary importance to the Board of Game.
3:57:38 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on the appointment of Ms.
Mueller to the Board of Game.
3:58:06 PM
MARK RICHARDS, Executive Director, Resident Hunters of Alaska,
Fairbanks, Alaska, testified in support of the appointments of
Ms. Mueller and Mr. Barrette to the Board of Game. He said that
Resident Hunters of Alaska previously recommended Ms. Mueller
for a board position and expressed confidence in her abilities.
He stated that Ms. Mueller's work as a pilot has given her a
firsthand look at issues across the state. He stated that Ms.
Mueller would be an asset to the Board of Game and would
advocate for Alaskan hunters and wildlife. He turned his
attention to Mr. Barrette and stated that he served with Mr.
Barrette on the Fairbanks Advisory Committee. He noted that
there are many guides on the Board of Game and emphasized that,
while Resident Hunters of Alaska (RHA) does not support adding
additional guides to the board, RHA is in support of Mr.
Barrette maintaining his seat on the board. He expressed
confidence in Mr. Barrette's abilities and said he is an asset
to the board.
4:00:06 PM
SENATOR HUGHES joined the meeting.
4:00:22 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR asked Mr. Barrette to provide examples of the
social issues that come before the Board of Game.
4:00:49 PM
MR. BARRETTE said that the board recently had a meeting to
address non-resident deer hunting in Kodiak. He explained that
at that time, the board limited non-residents to one buck per
year. He briefly explained how the issue came about, noting that
commercial fishing has faced challenges in recent years. Some
fishermen have chosen to transition their fishing boats into
transport vessels, transporting hunters for drop-off hunting.
Some boats transport more than 60 hunters during the season.
This forced Kodiak residents to travel farther into the bush to
harvest deer. He explained that this is a social issue because
the deer numbers can sustain the additional harvest; however,
the impact on residents is the primary concern.
4:02:48 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on the appointments of Ms.
Mueller and Mr. Barrette to the Board of Game.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): STATE ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): STATE ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD
4:03:09 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointee Samual Laffey to the State Assessment Review Board.
CHAIR GIESSEL provided an overview of the State Assessment
Review Board. The board has five members, each knowledgeable in
assessment procedures for the pipeline transportation of gas or
unrefined oil. The board conducts oil and gas assessment appeal
hearings on values set by the Board of Revenue. The compensation
for the board is per diem.
4:05:18 PM
At ease.
4:05:39 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL reconvened the meeting. She explained that, due to
a technical difficulty, the connection to the appointee was
unsuccessful. She stated her intention to continue to the next
appointee and return to Mr. Laffey at a later time.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): ALASKA COMMERCIAL FISHERIES ENTRY
COMMISSION
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): ALASKA COMMERCIAL FISHERIES ENTRY
COMMISSION
4:05:59 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointee Rick Green to the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry
Commission.
CHAIR GIESSEL provided a brief overview of the Alaska Commercial
Fisheries Entry Commission (CFEC). She stated that, while there
are only two members on the commission, it is a substantial job.
A quorum consists of both members. Candidates must have a broad
range of professional experience. They must not have a vested
economic interest in entry permits, fishing gear, etc. The board
promotes conservation and sustained yield management of fishery
resources and regulates the entry into commercial fisheries. The
Salary is equal to an executive range 25 ($4,211 biweekly).
4:07:33 PM
RICK GREEN, Appointee, Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry
Commission, Anchorage, Alaska, said he has served as
commissioner on the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
(CFEC) since July of 2024. He shared briefly about his call to
public service, which occurred when he experienced a heart
attack. He expressed appreciation to committee members, their
sacrifices, and their commitment to Alaska.
4:09:07 PM
MR GREEN shared his history with the fishing industry, which
began in childhood and includes work as a fishing guide. He
served a three-year term on the Anchorage Fish & Game Advisory
Committee and volunteered with ADF&G for roughly 30 years. He
said that he has been a subsistence fisherman and guide but has
not done commercial fishing. He said that he served 6 years as a
special assistant to the commissioner of ADF&G. He expressed
strong support for ADF&G Commissioner Doug Vincent-Lang. He
shared that he was preparing for retirement when the CFEC
position opened. He noted a lack of qualified applicants at that
time. He recognized that his qualifications made him a good
candidate and applied for the position. He indicated that he is
willing to commit to a 4-year term, at minimum. He is dedicated
to furthering the work of staff and the mission of FERC.
4:11:48 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked about a past report from the Alaska
Division of Legislative Audit that recommended merging FERC with
ADF&G. He recalled a large backlog of cases at that time. He
noted that the State of Alaska is experiencing budget
constraints and asked if there is a reason the legislature
should not merge the two entities.
4:12:16 PM
MR. GREEN replied that this is a legislative decision. He added
that, if the legislature approved the change, he would assist
with that transition. He noted that FERC brings in nearly $7
million and costs roughly $3.5 million. He pointed out that FERC
gives money to the Fishermen's Fund and the ADF&G Commercial
Fishing Division. He reiterated that he would help to merge FERC
with ADF&G, should the legislature approve that change.
4:12:49 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked about the workload for the
commission.
4:13:08 PM
MR. GREEN said he and Glen Haight have exhausted the backlog of
cases. He noted that FERC is currently working to modernize the
website. This will make the agency more accessible for
commercial fishermen and anyone who wants data.
4:14:07 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI shared his understanding that the proposed
merger of FERC into ADF&G is about creating greater efficiency.
He asked about areas of efficiency within the commission.
4:14:19 PM
MR. GREEN said he could provide this information and expressed a
willingness to work with the legislature on these issues.
4:14:32 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN noted Mr. Green's career as talk radio host, a
role in which he primarily expressed his own opinions. He
pointed out that a FERC commissioner must both have opinions and
be open to the information and issues presented. He asked how
Mr. Green would assure the public that he is not simply acting
in his role of "talk show host" but is gathering information and
making sound decisions based on the available evidence.
4:15:11 PM
MR. GREEN replied that working as a talk radio host was one of
many jobs over the course of his career. He emphasized that he
works hard at every job - though not all his jobs have been as
public facing as his radio work. He stated that Alaska's fishery
resources are very important and emphasized his dedication to
the mission of ADF&G as it is extended through FERC. He said he
manages on sustained yield principles and shared that he also
has an interest in the economics aspect.
4:16:31 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN offered a brief comment about Mr. Green's radio
show.
4:16:44 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on the appointment of Mr.
Green to the Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission;
finding none, she closed public testimony.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
4:17:58 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointee Thomas Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
CHAIR GIESSEL gave a brief overview of the Board of Fisheries.
The board is a regulatory body; the function of the board is
related to the conservation and development of fishery
resources. There are seven board members, chosen based on their
interest in public affairs, good judgement, knowledge, and
ability in the field of action of the board. Board members work
with the commissioner of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game
(ADF&G). The Board of Fisheries meets 4-5 times/year, for a
total of 33-45 days/year. She commented that this is a
substantial commitment. The compensation for board meetings is
an executive range 20(a) (approximately $40/hour for board
meetings). Board members receive half of this for attending non-
board meetings.
4:19:38 PM
THOMAS CARPENTER, Appointee, Board of Fisheries, Cordova,
Alaska, said he has served as the vice chair of the Board of
Fisheries. He briefly described his duties as vice chair and
commented on the importance of that role. He said board meetings
can be long, sometimes running up to two weeks. The vice chair
is responsible for ensuring that meetings run smoothly, making
necessary motions, etc. He said he was also the chair of the
Herring Revitalization Committee. The committee held several
meetings around the state. He explained that, due to market
conditions, herring is an underutilized resource. The committee
considered potential opportunities that would create
opportunities for the fishing community while protecting
subsistence fisheries. He said he served on the Alaska Salmon
Research Task Force in 2024. He said this task force brought
together a diverse group to consider research needs around the
state. He shared his belief that this was a productive task
force and expressed hope that the findings would bring about
positive change.
4:22:09 PM
MR. CARPENTER briefly discussed the reason he sought
reappointment to the Board of Fisheries. He said that his
experience on the board has been diverse. He noted the high
workload (which can include hundreds or thousands of pages of
reading) and emphasized that he does not consider this to be a
burden. He said that there is always more to learn, and the
reading requirement helps him to make informed decisions. He
said that reading public comments gives voice to the diverse
perspectives around the state. He stated that he believes in
compromise and shared his goal of bringing different user groups
together to try and find solutions to problems that impact many
Alaskans.
MR. CARPENTER provided examples of some of the projects he
worked on during his time on the board. He briefly discussed
efforts to rebuild king salmon populations on the Nushagak
River. He explained that it is difficult for managers to
negotiate the return of millions of sockeye salmon and tens of
thousands of king salmon. The board worked with the Department
of Fish and Game to come up with a solution. He shared his
belief that the plan would show dividends over the next few
years.
4:24:39 PM
MR. CARPENTER turned his attention to herring and shared that he
suggested substitute language based on input from subsistence
and commercial users. The board passed the changes, which
created new opportunities for users to explore different
markets. This will benefit fishermen while also protecting
subsistence users. He shared his belief that there is more work
to be done on the Board of Fisheries and stated that he is able
to dedicate the time required. He said he has a broad knowledge
base of the different fisheries, and this aids the board's
discussions with the public. He is also the only board member
currently living on coastal Alaska.
4:26:20 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI directed attention to a letter from the
Fairbanks Fish and Game Advisory Committee regarding concerns
about his reappointment. He said that the concerns are related
to comments [Mr. Carpenter] made regarding hatchery production
and a potential reluctance to consider peer-reviewed scientific
data. He asked Mr. Carpenter for comment.
4:27:11 PM
MR. CARPENTER said that he has not read the letter in question
and could not respond to its contents. However, he said he has a
long history with and an extensive understanding of hatchery
systems statewide. He was also a member and chair of the
regional planning team, which worked with ADF&G to regulate
Alaska's hatchery program. He disagreed that he is reluctant to
consider peer-reviewed studies related to hatcheries and use
those studies as evidence for decision-making. He stated that
there are many types of peer-reviewed studies and combing
through them can be difficult, as the language is often
technical. He said he tries to read as many peer-reviewed
studies as possible. He said that he most often relies on ADF&G
for education and science-based information related to hatchery
production and the potential effects this could have on the
overall environment. He opined that he is very open-minded [when
it comes to hatchery production]; however, he indicated that the
evidence remains unclear. He indicated that he continues to seek
out clear, factual evidence related to hatcheries to broaden his
understanding.
4:29:09 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI said the Arctic Affairs Committee recently
discussed salmon bycatch in pollock fisheries. He briefly
discussed one theory, which involves large numbers of hatchery
salmon (from Russia and China) intercepted in state waters. He
said that he is aware of several studies. He said he would
provide those to Mr. Carpenter and would welcome his feedback.
4:30:12 PM
MR. CARPENTER stated that he would be willing to read and
discuss the studies. He opined that this is important
information. He said that up to 93-94 percent of fish harvested
as bycatch in the Berring Sea (or other fisheries) are from
Japan and Russia. He commented that the Board of Fisheries does
not have much control over that; however, he opined that this -
and the impacts that it has on Alaska's fisheries - is important
for the board to consider when making decisions. He reiterated
that he is open to discussing this further.
4:31:08 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI said the Board of Fisheries faces difficult
decisions and has a large workload. He said he would like Mr.
Carpenter to address concerns. The first is regarding the Copper
River dipnet fishery proposal in Chitina. He briefly explained
the concerns and said that the proposal would move the boat
dipnet boundary location. He quoted Mr. Carpenter's remarks
during those discussions and asked him to explain the rationale
for his comment that "this is an allocative grab, plain and
simple."
4:32:40 PM
MR. CARPENTER recalled the meeting. He said it was a difficult
meeting. He said he understands the safety concerns; however, he
said he has expansive knowledge of the Copper River. He said the
river is fully utilized both for sockeye and king salmon. He
described the Copper River as a bright spot for king salmon in
Alaska. He said he voted to try and conserve king salmon in the
commercial fishery. He surmised that his fellow Cordova
residents were surprised by how he voted. With respect to the
question of the Copper River dipnet fishery at Chitina, he
explained that he did not see evidence that conservation was
necessary.
4:34:45 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI asked for clarification. He asked what Mr.
Carpenter meant when he referred to it as an "allocated issue."
4:34:56 PM
MR. CARPENTER replied that creating a larger fishing area within
a fishery, there is greater harvest potential. He explained that
when the fishery is fully utilized for commercial, personal, and
subsistence users, providing more area to one user group in an
attempt to increase that group's harvest rates is allocative.
4:35:38 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI noted concerns related to conflicts on the
board. He asked how Mr. Carpenter defines a "substantial
financial interest" for purposes of a conflict of interest.
4:36:01 PM
MR. CARPENTER replied that he does not personally have any
conflicts of interest. He acknowledged that not everyone can do
that, and some appointees have had financial conflicts of
interest. He said that this most often relates to owned permits
in a particular area under discussion. He stated that he
supports the idea that those individuals should not vote if they
have a conflict of interest. However, he stated that their
involvement in deliberations is important, as they are often
more knowledgeable about the nuances of that fishery than other
board members. He said the board follows the legislature's
guidelines with respect to conflicts of interest. He said that
the dollar value related to the conflict is left up to the
chair. He briefly discussed this process and said it is a broad
decision-making tool. He clarified that there is nothing set in
stone.
4:38:46 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI said that according to Alaska law, a
"substantial financial interest" is a conflict of interest. He
said he is aware of cases in which individuals with a $15,000 to
$20,000 financial interest have been deemed conflicted out. He
shared his understanding that Mr. Carpenter voted against
conflicting those individuals out because he did not consider
the amount to be a substantial financial interest. Given that
information, he asked what Mr. Carpenter would consider a
significant financial interest.
4:39:31 PM
MR. CARPENTER could not recall making that statement on the
record. He briefly discussed precedent with the Board of
Fisheries. He recalled that the precedent for a conflict of
interest is anything over $5,000. He noted that the bar is
different for each chairman. He emphasized the importance of
considering precedent and reiterated that each chairman
interprets this differently.
4:40:41 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI expressed appreciation for Mr. Carpenter's
testimony. He directed attention to a letter from the Alaska
Outdoor Council that opposed Mr. Carpenter's reappointment. The
letter referred to Proposal 14, which would close the pollack
trawl fishery in Prince William Sound until trawlers could
ensure the gear would not reach the sea floor. The letter stated
that Mr. Carpenter submitted substitute language to the
following proposal (15) that stopped proposal 14 and expanded
the trawling to two more sections of Prince William Sound. He
explained AOC expressed concern regarding Mr. Carpenter's
dedication to the Board of Fisheries' constitutional obligation
to conserve Alaska's fisheries. He asked Mr. Carpenter to
comment.
4:41:52 PM
MR. CARPENTER recalled that the proposals were presented at a
meeting in Cordova in December of 2024. He could not recall the
specific language he introduced but suggested that the letter
from AOC was somewhat inaccurate. He stated that Prince William
Sound is the state's only trawl fishery. He noted that it is a
small fishery and most of the trawl fisheries in Alaska are in
federal waters. He indicated that it is important to keep
trawlers off the sea floor. However, he said it is difficult for
the board to mandate this. He explained that monitoring is an
issue, as the board does not have the necessary authority.
MR. CARPENTER briefly explained what happened with respect to
the proposals mentioned by Senator Wielechowski. He said that
the Prince Williams Sound regulations state that only 70 percent
of the pollock allocation can be harvested in one of three
areas. This creates problems related to bycatch, including king
salmon and rockfish. He said the department did not have the
authority to allow continued harvest in an area with lower
numbers. He said that his proposed substitute language gave the
department flexibility to allow trawling in one of the three
areas while also allowing the department to direct that activity
to the area that would be least effected by bycatch. He opined
that this was an intelligent, conservation-minded decision.
4:44:26 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR asked if Mr. Carpenter has been following the
various measures to preserve Alaska's commercial fishing
industry and support coastal Alaska that are currently before
the legislature. He asked if Mr. Carpenter has any thoughts
about what the legislature can do to preserve fishing industry
jobs along coastal Alaska.
4:45:44 PM
MR. CARPENTER replied that he tracks the by-catch committee and
legislative activities related to the seafood industry. He noted
the high expense of doing business in 2025 and surmised that the
high costs will continue - particularly in remote locations. He
said that many remote locations have seen closures and
consolidation due to high costs. He said creating regulatory
language that allows communities to increase productivity while
conserving resources is important. He opined that this provides
stability to coastal communities and the industry. He said that,
as a board member, this is something he always considers.
4:47:03 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI referred to Proposal 70 and explained that it
would increase the area where boats were allowed to drift. He
briefly described this process. He explained that [Proposal 70]
requested an increase of less than half a mile, to allow certain
boats to dipnet in that area. He stated that Mr. Carpenter voted
in favor of Proposal 70. He requested clarification of Mr.
Carpenter's earlier comments regarding allocative decisions.
4:48:24 PM
MR. CARPENTER replied that he considers a fully utilized
location to be a fully allocated resource. He said many rivers
around the state are fully utilized. He pointed out the
different fisheries: commercial, personal use, and subsistence.
He said that people can choose to use the dipnet or subsistence
areas. He offered a commercial fishing example to illustrate how
adjusting the fishery area takes area from one fishery and adds
it to another fishery. He said this is allocative in the sense
that the larger the transferred area, the more fish is
(potentially) taken from one user group and given to another. He
explained that there was also a safety issue that guided his
decision-making in that case. He said that it would be easier to
explain with a map or chart to illustrate his reasoning.
4:51:06 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on the governor's
appointment of Thomas Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
4:51:30 PM
BOB MURPHY, representing self, Kodiak, Alaska, testified in
support of the appointment of Thomas Carpenter to the Board of
Fisheries. He said he is a commercial fisherman and has been
involved with the Board of Fisheries process for 35 years. He
stated that Mr. Carpenter is knowledgeable about subsistence,
sport, commercial, and personal use fisheries throughout the
state. He said Mr. Carpenter's knowledge and previous board
experience make him an asset. He commented that Mr. Carpenter is
approachable, willing, and able to listen to user concerns and
make informed, science-based decisions on difficult issues. He
reiterated his support of Mr. Carpenter's reappointment.
4:52:58 PM
DAN MACDONALD, representing self, Bellingham, Washington,
testified in support of the appointment of Thomas Carpenter to
the Board of Fisheries. He said he is a lifelong commercial
fisherman and has held an Alaskan fishing permit for roughly 46
years. He briefly shared about his experience with the Board of
Fisheries and Mr. Carpenter. He shared an anecdote to illustrate
Mr. Carpenter's ability to mediate and help resolve conflicts,
leading to compromise on important issues. He said Mr. Carpenter
is an excellent mediator who understands the issues that come
before the board. He said he has not seen a better candidate.
4:55:37 PM
STEVE BROWN, President, Concerned Area M Fishermen, Homer,
Alaska, testified in support of the appointment of Thomas
Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries. He gave a brief overview of
Concerned Area M Fishermen, whose members live throughout the
state. He said he has attended and participated in Board of
Fisheries meetings for 30 years. He contrasted board members who
prepare for meetings (e.g. have read all proposals, department
reports, and other background materials) with those who do not.
He stated that Mr. Carpenter is among the former. He added that
Mr. Carpenter is fair, approachable, available for dialogue, and
listens to the public. He said Mr. Carpenter seems to make
evidence-based decisions and opined that this is a good
characteristic to have one a board where many issues can become
emotional. He commented on the benefits that come from serving
multiple board terms, which provides experience and familiarity.
4:57:53 PM
ROBERT HEYANO, representing self, Dillingham, Alaska, testified
in support of the appointment of Thomas Carpenter to the Board
of Fisheries. He said he has been a commercial fisherman in
Bristol Bay for over 50 years. He stated that Mr. Carpenter is
familiar with the issues that come before the board. Mr.
Carpenter can successfully work with different groups to find
common solutions and has demonstrated leadership abilities. He
added that Mr. Carpenter's previous experience in the commercial
fishery gives him a better understanding of the issues and is an
asset to the Board of Fisheries.
4:59:03 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on the governor's
appointment of Thomas Carpenter to the Board of Fisheries.
4:59:15 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL solicited the will of the committee.
4:59:22 PM
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI stated that [in accordance with AS
39.05.080,] the Senate Resources Standing Committee reviewed the
following and recommends the appointments be advanced to a joint
session for consideration:
Board of Game
Allen Barrette - Fairbanks
Carrie Ann Mueller - Palmer
Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission
Rick Green - Anchorage
Board of Fisheries
Thomas Carpenter - Cordova
SENATOR WIELECHOWSKI reminded members that signing the report(s)
regarding appointments to boards and commissions in no way
reflects individual members' approval or disapproval of the
appointees; the nominations are merely advanced to the full
legislature for confirmation or rejection.
CHAIR GIESSEL stated that the remaining appointees would be
considered at the next hearing of the Senate Resources Standing
Committee.
5:00:29 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Giessel adjourned the Senate Resources Standing Committee
meeting at 5:00 p.m.