Legislature(2025 - 2026)BUTROVICH 205
04/28/2025 03:30 PM Senate RESOURCES
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): Board of Fisheries | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): State Assessment Review Board | |
| SJR18 | |
| HJR15 | |
| SB174 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 112 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SJR 18 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | HJR 15 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| += | SB 174 | TELECONFERENCED | |
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE RESOURCES STANDING COMMITTEE
April 28, 2025
3:30 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Cathy Giessel, Chair
Senator Matt Claman
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Senator Scott Kawasaki
Senator Shelley Hughes
Senator Robert Myers
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Bill Wielechowski, Vice Chair
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
- HEARD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): STATE ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD
- HEARD
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 18
Urging the Governor, the Department of Natural Resources,
division of forestry and fire protection, the Department of
Public Safety, municipalities of the state and relevant wildfire
planning and response agencies, and the Alaska delegation in
Congress to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season.
- HEARD & HELD
CS FOR HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 15(CRA)
Urging the Governor, the Department of Natural Resources,
division of forestry and fire protection, the Department of
Public Safety, municipalities of the state and relevant wildfire
planning and response agencies, and the Alaska delegation in
Congress to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season.
- HEARD & HELD
SENATE BILL NO. 174
"An Act establishing the Alaska Invasive Species Council in the
Department of Fish and Game; relating to management of invasive
species; and providing for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SJR 18
SHORT TITLE: WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS
SPONSOR(s): RESOURCES
04/02/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/02/25 (S) RES
04/14/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
04/14/25 (S) Heard & Held
04/14/25 (S) MINUTE(RES)
04/28/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
BILL: HJR 15
SHORT TITLE: WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS
SPONSOR(s): HOLLAND
03/24/25 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
03/24/25 (H) CRA
04/01/25 (H) CRA AT 8:00 AM BARNES 124
04/01/25 (H) Heard & Held
04/01/25 (H) MINUTE(CRA)
04/03/25 (H) CRA AT 8:00 AM BARNES 124
04/03/25 (H) <Bill Hearing Canceled>
04/08/25 (H) CRA AT 8:00 AM BARNES 124
04/08/25 (H) Moved CSHJR 15(CRA) Out of Committee
04/08/25 (H) MINUTE(CRA)
04/09/25 (H) CRA RPT CS(CRA) 6DP
04/09/25 (H) DP: HOLLAND, PRAX, RUFFRIDGE, HALL,
MEARS, HIMSCHOOT
04/25/25 (H) TRANSMITTED TO (S)
04/25/25 (H) VERSION: CSHJR 15(CRA)
04/28/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
BILL: SB 174
SHORT TITLE: INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT
SPONSOR(s): DUNBAR
04/14/25 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/14/25 (S) RES, FIN
04/28/25 (S) RES AT 3:30 PM BUTROVICH 205
WITNESS REGISTER
OLIVIA IRWIN, Appointee
Board of Fisheries
Nenana, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as appointee to the Board of
Fisheries.
VIRGIL UMPHENOUR, representing self
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
SHANNON MARTIN, Executive Director
Kenai River Sportfishing Association
Soldotna, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
KACEY HOPSON, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
CRAIG CHYTHLOOK, Fisheries Policy Director
Native Peoples Action
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
LOUIS SILAS, Member
Minto/Nenana Fish and Game Advisory Committee
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
SAMUEL LAFFEY, Appointee
State Assessment Review Board
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as appointee to the State
Assessment Review Board.
INTIMAYO HARBISON, Staff
Senator Cathy Giessel
Alaska State Legislature
POSITION STATEMENT: Gave a brief presentation on SJR 18.
REPRESENTATIVE KY HOLLAND, Alaska, District 9
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Sponsor of HJR 15.
NORM MCDONALD, Deputy Director
Division of Forestry and Fire Protection
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Answered questions on HJR 15.
AL BARRETTE, representing self
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified with concerns on SB 174.
KIM TITUS, representing self
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified with concerns on SB 174.
RACHEL LEVY, Staff
Senator Forrest Dunbar
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented a sectional analysis for SB 174.
CASEY DINKEL, Manager
Alaska Plant Materials Center
Division of Agriculture
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided information related to SB 174.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:30:49 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 Myers, Kawasaki, Dunbar, Hughes, Claman, and Chair
Giessel.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): BOARD OF FISHERIES
3:31:49 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointment of Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
CHAIR GIESSEL provided an overview of the Board of Fisheries. It
is a seven-member board. Members should be Alaska residents and
are chosen based on their interest in public affairs, good
knowledge and ability in the field of action of the board. The
board strives for a diversity of opinions. Compensation is an
administrative range 20(a) for board meetings and half of that
amount for non-board meetings. The board meets roughly 4-5 times
per year for a total of 33-45 days.
3:33:30 PM
OLIVIA IRWIN, Appointee, Board of Fisheries, Nenana, Alaska,
introduced herself and said she grew up between Alaska and
Missouri. She shared that she attended culture camp in the
summers, where elders taught her to process fish. She provided a
brief overview of her education and work experience, including
collaborations with the Tanana Chiefs Conference and the
University of Alaska Fairbanks related to fish and game policy.
She said she has studied state and federal management. She has
attended Board of Fisheries and Board of Game meetings. She is
the co-chair of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG)
Minto/Nenana Advisory Committee.
3:35:21 PM
MS. IRWIN said she has worked closely with regional ADFG
advisory committees and other organizations to develop proposals
and comments that create a unified voice for the region. She
briefly listed the advisory committee meetings that she has
attended. She said attending meetings of the Fairbanks Advisory
Committee, Tanana/Rampart/Manley Advisory Committee, and the
Yukon Flats Advisory Committee has been integral to understand
what is happening throughout the river. She emphasized that
understanding the fisheries requires knowledge of what users are
seeing as the fish are coming in. She shared that she worked
closely with the Wood Bison Restoration Project, which provided
useful experience working with advisory committees, various
organizations, state agencies, and the Board of Game to develop
a plan. She participates weekly at the Arctic-Yukon-Kuskokwim
(AYK) Working Group. She shared that she worked alongside ADFG
staff and Board of Fisheries members to legalize "hook and line"
as subsistence gear throughout the Yukon River.
MS. IRWIN briefly discussed how that experience taught her to
work toward compromise on regulations. She shared that following
this experience, she felt empowered to further engage in
policymaking and take part in management meetings. This is one
reason she would like to be a Board of Fisheries member. She
shared that she would like to promote the public process,
encourage public participation, and to support the board in
developing strategies to better engage with user groups.
MS. IRWIN stated that the primary reason she is seeking
appointment to the Board of Fisheries is to protect and promote
healthy Alaskan fish stock. She indicated a specific interest in
Chinook (King) salmon. She stated that the Yukon River is in its
seventh year of a Chinook salmon fishing moratorium. She shared
that she comes from a long line of fishermen, and her family
includes users from each group. She is personally impacted by
the loss of the Yukon River's commercial fishery. She shared
that her aunt and uncle previously operated a commercial fish
wheel in Nenana alongside many other families. She said that she
knows of only one person currently operating a fish wheel. She
expressed a desire to preserve and protect Alaska's fisheries
resources and the fisherperson's way of life. She said she is
young, enthusiastic, and deeply knowledgeable of the
regulations. She is willing to put in the necessary time to
complete work outside of board meetings and is a good listener.
She stated that, if confirmed, she would make decisions based on
science and stakeholder experience and would follow the statutes
that guide the promotion of healthy, thriving fish stocks. She
expressed gratitude for the support she has received from
various organizations regarding her appointment to the board.
3:38:44 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR asked for Ms. Irwin's position on hatcheries,
particularly those located in Southern Alaska.
3:39:13 PM
MS. IRWIN said statewide discussion on this issue is needed. She
said that she has begun to research the issue and is not
prepared with an answer at this time. She shared her intention
to review the relevant data prior to meetings addressing the
issue of hatcheries. She added that she would be sure to engage
with stakeholders closest to that resource. She noted that the
Board of Fisheries has limited authority over fisheries;
therefore, she would defer to the legislature for most hatchery-
related decisions.
3:39:49 PM
SENATOR MYERS noted that Ms. Irwin's resume includes a reference
to "decriminalizing subsistence practices." He asked her to
elaborate on this.
3:40:00 PM
MS. IRWIN said that, in multiple river systems throughout the
state, the State of Alaska has not met the needs of subsistence
users. She said that according to AS 16.05.258, the legislature
must prioritize meeting the needs of subsistence users. She
explained that when subsistence users' needs are not met, many
turn to illegal fishing opportunities to meet those needs. She
emphasized that she would like to ensure that Alaska residents
closest to a resource receive access and opportunity to that
resource.
3:41:03 PM
SENATOR MYERS noted that the Yukon River has been closed to
fishing for several years. He asked what circumstances would be
appropriate to shut down a subsistence fishery - recognizing
that shutting down the fishery is a last resort.
3:41:26 PM
MS. IRWIN replied that she would need more data and information,
including in-season reports and data from fisheries managers, to
make that decision.
3:41:51 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on Ms. Irwin's appointment
to the Board of Fisheries.
3:42:27 PM
VIRGIL UMPHENOUR, representing self, Fairbanks, Alaska,
testified in support of the appointment of Ms. Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries. He said he served three terms on the Board
of Fisheries and was a long-standing member of the Pacific
Salmon Commission. He said he owns a meat and fish processor in
Fairbanks and previously purchased fish from Ms. Irwin's family.
He briefly discussed the status of the salmon fisheries in
Northern Alaska.
3:45:03 PM
SHANNON MARTIN, Executive Director, Kenai River Sportfishing
Association, Soldotna, Alaska, testified in support of the
appointment of Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. She gave a
brief overview of the Kenai River Sportfishing Association
(KRSA). She said Ms. Irwin's is well-spoken and is familiar with
KRSA through her work on the Minto-Nenana Fish and Game advisory
committee. In that role, Ms. Irwin gained valuable experience
working closely with the Board of Fisheries, staff from Alaska
Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), and stakeholders from all
user groups. She emphasized that firsthand knowledge and
familiarity with the Board of Fisheries processes are essential
for potential board members. She said in interviews with KRSA,
Ms. Irwin has shown herself to be deeply committed to the
sustainable management of Alaska's fisheries and aligned with
KRSA's core priority of delivering more fish to Alaskan rivers.
She encouraged support of Ms. Irwin's appointment to the Board
of Fisheries.
3:48:17 PM
KACEY HOPSON, representing self, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in
support of the appointment of Ms. Irwin to the Board of
Fisheries. She shared that she has known Ms. Irwin for several
years and has also worked with her in a professional capacity.
She stated that Ms. Irwin is familiar with the Board of
Fisheries process and is deeply committed to making fisheries
resources accessible to all Alaskans. She shared her belief that
Ms. Irwin is extremely thorough in her research, particularly
when an issue will impact Alaskans. She said Ms. Irwin is
dedicated to ensuring that Alaskans who depend on salmon can
practice their livelihood. She shared her belief that Ms. Irwin
brings a perspective that is underrepresented on the Board of
Fisheries. She opined that this perspective is much needed in
the present time of declining salmon numbers in Alaska's rivers.
She opined that Ms. Irwin would be a strong asset to the Board
of Fisheries and encouraged support for her appointment.
3:50:06 PM
CRAIG CHYTHLOOK, Fisheries Policy Director, Native Peoples
Action, Fairbanks, Alaska, testified in support of the
appointment of Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He said he
is a lifelong subsistence user and sport fisherman. He provided
a brief overview of Native Peoples Action. He stated that Ms.
Irwin has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to
service of communities through her work with Minto-Nenana ADF&G
Advisory Committee, among others. He said Ms. Irwin has shown
leadership, commitment, and the ability to work with all
stakeholder groups. Her methods are inviting, constructive, and
solution oriented. He emphasized that Ms. Irwin's appointment
would bring a needed perspective and innovative solutions to the
Board of Fisheries. He stated that Ms. Irwin's ability to
collaborate and solve problems would be invaluable to insuring
the long-term health and prosperity of Alaska's fisheries.
3:52:29 PM
LOUIS SILAS, Member, Minto/Nenana Fish and Game Advisory
Committee, Anchorage, Alaska, testified in support of the
appointment of Ms. Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He provided
a brief overview of his work. He said Ms. Irwin is a dedicated
advocate for the communities she represents. She brings a wealth
of experience and a deep understanding of local and regional
fisheries issues. He emphasized the work Ms. Irwin has done as
co-chair of the Minto/Nenana Fish and Game Advisory Committee,
which has been instrumental in ensuring the community's voices
are heard at the state level. She has also worked tirelessly to
support the advancement of traditional indigenous practices. He
emphasized that her knowledge of traditional ways of life -
combined with her knowledge of the complex regulatory systems -
makes her an invaluable asset to the Board of Fisheries. He said
Ms. Irwin's unique perspective and dedication will contribute
significantly to the board's goal of responsibly and sustainably
managing Alaska's fisheries.
3:54:53 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on the governor's
appointment of Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
3:55:01 PM
SENATOR HUGHES commented on Ms. Irwin's resume, indicating
pleasant surprise that she enjoys researching fishing and
hunting regulations. She surmised that Ms. Irwin is serious
about her work supporting Alaska's fisheries and added that her
resume is impressive.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): STATE ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S): STATE ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD
3:55:38 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of the governor's
appointment of Samuel Laffey to the State Assessment Review
Board.
CHAIR GIESSEL provided an overview of the State Assessment
Review Board. The board consists of five members. The board
conducts oil and gas property assessment appeal hearings on
values set by the Alaska Department of Revenue (DOR). Meetings
are held twice yearly. Members must be knowledgeable about the
assessment procedures for pipeline transportation of gas and
unrefined oil.
3:56:58 PM
SAMUEL LAFFEY, Appointee, State Assessment Review Board,
Anchorage, Alaska, said he is an attorney employed by the state
of Alaska Department of Administration Office of Public
Advocacy. He briefly described his work, explaining that he
primarily works with indigent Alaskans with a focus on "child in
need of aid" cases. He acknowledged that an appointment to the
State Assessment Review Board does not directly align with his
work experience. He addressed this by explaining that he studied
oil and gas law while obtaining his law degree and master's
degree in business administration (MBA) in Wyoming. He stated
that he is good with numbers and using best practices and
standards to determine the value. He said he applied to the
State Assessment Review Board because a large proportion of the
board's work is reviewing statutory law passed by the
legislature, regulations created by the Alaska Department of
Revenue, and case law related to previous board decisions and
DOR assessment decisions. He briefly discussed a case brought by
the City of Valdez related to assets. He said he is seeking
appointment to the board because his legal background enables
him to provide a different type of analysis. He briefly
discussed how his law education and experience would be an asset
to the board.
4:01:53 PM
SENATOR MYERS asked about Mr. Laffey's experience assessing real
estate in general - and oil and gas real estate in particular.
4:02:14 PM
MR. LAFFEY answered that he has had some experience assessing
real estate in general, though none related to oil and gas or
pipelines specifically. He said his understanding of pipelines
comes from his academic studies.
4:03:05 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN noted that he is also a lawyer. He said that Mr.
Laffey's resume is broad, with experiences covering nearly all
areas - except oil and gas (and oil and gas valuation). He asked
if the legislature should be concerned that Mr. Laffey has so
little (if any) experience doing the work that is required by
the State Assessment Review Board.
4:03:44 PM
MR. LAFFEY said he is not qualified to answer that question. He
said this determination is up to the legislature.
SENATOR CLAMAN said he recognizes that this determination is
ultimately up to the legislature. He shared that in his legal
career, he has successfully represented clients in areas of law
in which he previously had no experience. He opined that it is
fair to ask why Mr. Laffey is interested in joining the board,
given his lack of experience. He clarified that he is requesting
reassurance regarding why he should not have concerns about Mr.
Laffey taking on this role. He opined that Mr. Laffey is the
only person qualified to answer that question.
4:05:23 PM
MR. LAFFEY answered that, while he does not have the direct oil
and gas experience that is typical of board appointees, he is a
fast learner who dedicates himself to successfully completing
the tasks he is assigned. He shared that he has dedicated
personal time to reading briefs for current cases before the
board. He shared his belief that he has been an asset to the
board since his appointment began. He opined that this is
evidence of his ability to serve on the State Assessment Review
Board.
4:08:33 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN suggested focusing on the work Mr. Laffey has
done since beginning to work with the board. He noted that oil
and gas valuation is vastly different from the child in need of
aid cases that have made up much of Mr. Laffey's work
experience. He asked if Mr. Laffey has had difficulty assessing
the issues, reading Alaska Statutes, and making balanced and
thoughtful decisions during his time on the board.
4:09:13 PM
MR. LAFFEY replied that he has had some difficulty with oil and
gas terminology. He said he has had to consider arguments,
research, and take notes to understand core issues and offered
examples. He indicated that this is a standard attorney
practice.
4:11:42 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI asked for more information on how Mr. Laffey
would make decisions related to taxable property value and
appeals.
4:12:08 PM
MR. LAFFEY stated his intention to closely follow the Alaska
Department of Revenue (DOR) statutes and regulations to
determine what qualifies as assessable property and the
procedure for determining the value. He briefly discussed the
appeals process and said he would balance grey area between DOR
and the petitioner.
4:14:11 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL noted that Mr. Laffey was admitted to the Alaska
bar in April 2021. She stated that the assessment of oil and gas
property and transportation facilities is critical to the State
of Alaska. She pointed out that this industry is the state's
primary funding source. She emphasized the importance of the
State Assessment Review Board and explained that, for these
reasons, the board does not have a public member. She stated
that board members are knowledgeable of assessment procedures
for pipeline transportation of gas and unrefined oil. She asked
what motivated Mr. Laffey to move to Alaska.
4:15:19 PM
MR. LAFFEY replied that he has always wanted to live in Alaska
and briefly shared why. He said he wanted to practice law in a
place that had both urban and rural areas. He indicated that
Alaska's small bar was appealing. He stated that he values
access to rural areas and the outdoors. He briefly discussed the
challenges of relocating.
4:17:57 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on the appointment of Mr.
Laffey to the State Assessment Review Board; finding none, she
closed public testimony.
4:18:17 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL solicited the will of the committee.
4:18:22 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN 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:
State Assessment Review Board
Samuel Laffey - Anchorage
Board of Fisheries
Olivia Irwin - Nenana
SENATOR CLAMAN 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.
4:18:48 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL found no objection and affirmed the advancement of
the governor's appointees to the full legislature for
consideration.
SJR 18-WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS
4:19:01 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of SENATE JOINT
RESOLUTION NO. 18 Urging the Governor, the Department of Natural
Resources, division of forestry and fire protection, the
Department of Public Safety, municipalities of the state and
relevant wildfire planning and response agencies, and the Alaska
delegation in Congress to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season.
4:19:47 PM
INTIMAYO HARBISON, Staff, Senator Cathy Giessel, Alaska State
Legislature, said he would give a short presentation on SJR 18
highlighting the fire risk in Anchorage compared to west coast
states and other areas in Alaska.
4:20:05 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 2 and briefly discussed the
January 2025 Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, California.
4:20:14 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 3, containing a California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) map with
the Palisades fire overlaid. He explained that the fire began in
a high-risk area and moved into a low-risk area, where it caused
severe devastation.
4:20:27 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 4, containing an August 12, 2024,
excerpt from the Salem Statesman's Journal titled, "Oregon
wildfires: Record for acres burned broken, Crater Lake closes
north entrance." He pointed out that, according to the article,
in 2024 Oregon broke its total fire burn record.
4:20:38 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 5, containing a map of the Harney
County Falls Fire (2024) in Oregon. He explained that this fire
moved from a high-risk area to a moderate-risk area.
4:20:45 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 6, containing a map of the Cow
Valley Fire/Durkee Fire, Oregon. He explained that this fire
moved from a moderate-risk area to a high-risk area, where it
burned out of control.
4:21:05 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slides 8-9. Slide 8 contains an excerpt
from an article titled, "Munson Creek Fire near Chena Hot
Springs still cooking with hot, dry weather." Slide 9 is a map
of the Munson Creek Fire, Fairbanks. He explained that this fire
began in a moderate-risk area and moved into a high-risk area,
causing structural damage and devastation to that region.
4:21:24 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 10, containing excerpts from
newspaper articles on the Swan Lake (2019) and Funny River
(2014) fires. He said that the Swan Lake fire burned more than
162,000 acres.
4:21:44 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 11, containing maps of the Swan
Lake (2019) and Funny River (2014) fires. He noted that both
fires (indicated in brown) began in low-risk areas and burned
out of control.
4:22:01 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slides 12 - 13. Slide 12 contains an
excerpt from an article titled, "McHugh fire now estimated at
842 acres." Slide 13 contains a map of the McHugh Creek Fire
(2016), Turnagain Arm. He explained that this fire burned in a
low-risk area. He noted that the fire burned for an extended
period because fire crews were unable to reach the location due
to difficulties navigating the terrain and high wind conditions.
4:22:33 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 15, containing the Anchorage Bowl
fire risk assessment map. He explained that the following slides
would zoom in on specific areas of this map.
4:22:45 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 16, containing the East
Anchorage/Hillside fire risk assessment map. He explained that
the dark brown indicates areas of extreme fire risk. Light brown
indicates high fire risk. He added that light green and dark
green indicate moderate and low risk, respectively.
4:22:03 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 17, containing the East
Anchorage/Hillside fire risk assessment map. He directed
attention to the red circle, which indicates an area located
near the Campbell Tract.
4:23:11 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 18 and discussed the Campbell
Tract Fires. He explained that there have been fires in the
Campbell Tract area in 2008, 2019, and 2022. He stated that
those fires had the potential to burn out of control. He briefly
directed attention to the map on the previous slide to
illustrate how the fires could have burned throughout the
Campbell Tract and up the hillside.
4:23:40 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 19, containing the East
Anchorage/Hillside fire risk assessment map, and discussed the
wildfire risk to schools, homes, and businesses. He pointed out
that Service High School and South High School are highlighted
on the map and noted that there are many homes and businesses in
between these two schools. This area is a mix of extreme, high,
and moderate fire risk. He recalled earlier slides and
emphasized that fires can spread between areas with different
fire risk levels; therefore, all of the area contained on the
map contains the potential for severe fire risk.
4:24:14 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 20, containing the Girdwood fire
risk assessment map. He stated that all of Girdwood is
considered high or extreme fire risk. He explained that Girdwood
relies on volunteer firefighters. In the event of a fire burning
out of control, a response unit from the Anchorage Fire
Department would take 45 minutes to arrive. He stated that such
a lengthy response time is not ideal.
4:24:49 PM
MR. HARBISON advanced to slide 21:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Conclusion
• This resolution highlights the need for focus on
wildfire education, mitigation, and preparation
in Alaska. This is to avoid large fires seen near
or in population centers in California, Oregon,
and other parts of Alaska from occurring in
Anchorage.
• Wildfires can move between high and low risk
areas particularly when those areas are adjacent
to one another.
• With increased wildfire education, mitigation,
and preparation Anchorage can avoid the fate of
other communities lost to fires in recent years.
4:25:53 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL noted that the maps and the modeling included in
the presentation came from the Institute for Social and Economic
Research at the University of Alaska.
4:26:00 PM
[CHAIR GIESSEL held SJR 18 in committee.]
HJR 15-WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS
4:26:06 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of CS FOR HOUSE JOINT
RESOLUTION NO. 15(CRA) Urging the Governor, the Department of
Natural Resources, division of forestry and fire protection, the
Department of Public Safety, municipalities of the state and
relevant wildfire planning and response agencies, and the Alaska
delegation in Congress to prepare for the 2025 wildfire season.
4:26:53 PM
REPRESENTATIVE KY HOLLAND, Alaska, District 9, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced himself.
4:27:07 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND said the presentation for SJR 18 provides
a good framework for the work being done to address wildfires in
Alaska. He advanced to slide 2, containing a map of Alaska
indicating significant wildland fire potential:
[Original punctuation provided.]
The Growing Wildfire Threat in Alaska
• Unusually dry conditions in South Central Alaska
• Increased wildfire risk due to rising
temperatures and lower precipitation.
• High-risk communities in WUI areas: Anchorage,
Fairbanks, Kenai, Soldotna, and others.
• Challenges: Limited water sources, difficult
terrain, single-access roads.
• Benefits of Action: Reduce firefighting costs,
economic damage, and loss of lives and homes.
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND said dry conditions may lead to an early,
more significant wildfire season. This information was shared
with Anchorage area community councils as well as state and
local fire jurisdictions to raise awareness and concern about
the potential danger and to encourage early planning efforts. He
directed attention to the map on slide 2 and said the potential
for wildfire danger is extending beyond typical high danger
areas.
4:28:55 PM
SENATOR HUGHES referred to the map included on slide 2, pointing
out that it was issued on March 3, 2025. She said the map was
reissued one month later and commented that the wildfire threat
is ongoing.
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND said conditions change and the map is
updated monthly.
4:29:13 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND advanced to slide 3:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Strengthening Interagency Communication and
Coordination
Key Recommendations in HJR 15:
• State and local agencies review and update
wildfire response plans.
• Fire departments, forestry officials, and public
safety officers collaborate on equipment, drills,
and evacuation plans.
• Pursue investments in aerial firefighting
resources, water reservoirs, and critical road
ROW maintenance.
• Federal support is crucialWe urge Congress to
increase funding for Alaska's wildfire prevention
efforts.
SENATOR HOLLAND briefly discussed the challenge of managing
wildfire treatment and evacuation in areas where a single road
leads to many homes. He emphasized the importance of ensuring
the right of way is cleared and that road capacity allows for
the simultaneous evacuation of residents and arrival of
emergency equipment.
4:31:44 PM
SENATOR HOLLAND advanced to slide 4 and said that HJR 15
addresses both government agency preparedness and public
preparedness:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Community Engagement and Public Preparedness
Key Recommendations in HJR 15:
Proactive Community Actions:
• Expand Firewise USA participation & homeowner
education.
• Promote "Ready, Set, Go!" evacuation preparedness
program.
• Increase early detection efforts and emergency
notifications.
• Organize community wildfire drills and evacuation
route planning.
4:33:06 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND advanced to slide 5:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Call to Action
2025 Wildfire Season has started!
• State and Local Leaders: Implement wildfire
mitigation strategies now.
• Residents: Take part in preparedness programs and
report risks.
• Congress and Federal Agencies: Support Alaska
with funding & resources.
• First Responders and Public Safety Officers:
Participate in interagency training and drills.
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND stated that the 2025 wildfire season was
declared early.
4:34:29 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND concluded that HJR 15 is a call to action
for the 2025 wildfire season. He expressed hope that this would
help raise awareness of the long-term work that is needed. He
briefly discussed historical urban core fires and the subsequent
changes that mitigated those fire risks. He expressed hope that
large, urban perimeter fires would be similarly managed. He said
that, in the future, large fires do not need to equal loss of
life and major infrastructure losses. He stated that his goal is
to bring awareness and to encourage support of the work being
done to reduce wildfires.
4:36:31 PM
SENATOR HUGHES said it is horrific to think of the impacts of
large urban fires and expressed appreciation for HJR 15. She
briefly discussed the National Interagency Fire Center maps for
upcoming months. She expressed concern that campfires could
potentially lead to wildfires. She said unhoused populations
often start campfires in treed areas, which increases the
potential for wildfires. She asked if this had been addressed.
4:37:34 PM
REPRESENTATIVE HOLLAND shared his understanding that the
Municipality of Anchorage has been considering this issue and
deferred the question.
4:38:06 PM
NORM MCDONALD, Deputy Director, Division of Forestry and Fire
Protection, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Palmer,
Alaska, said the Division is working with the Municipality of
Anchorage to identify high-risk areas. Work on some of those
locations is scheduled to begin in spring of 2025.
4:38:49 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI noted recent federal announcements that states
would assume responsibility for disaster response funding. He
asked how the State of Alaska would address this. He commented
that that Alaska has many urban-wilderness interface areas,
which create additional risk.
4:39:45 PM
MR. MCDONALD said the Division of Forestry and Fire Protection
(DFFP) is aware of this issue and is awaiting additional
information. He said the National Association of State Foresters
provides a channel for the State of Alaska to communicate its
support for upcoming changes - or any concerns - to federal
agencies.
4:40:24 PM
SENATOR KAWASAKI recalled extensive wildfires in the 2010's and
the effort to build fire breaks, roads, and access points for
fire equipment that resulted from those fires. He asked whether
this is something that DFFP is continuing to work towards - or
whether those fire mitigation efforts have become lax due to a
lack of funding.
4:40:59 PM
MR. MCDONALD said the DFFP continues to invest a great deal of
effort and energy into the fuels program. He briefly discussed
fire protection efforts at Murphy Dome, including a fuel break
to protect subdivision residents. He said fuel breaks make up a
large percentage of DFFP funding. There are fuel breaks around
the state (from Fairbanks to Homer) with both state and federal
funding sources. He said preparedness and fuels mitigation are a
large part of the mission of DFFP.
4:41:55 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL held HJR 15 in committee.
SB 174-INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT
4:42:07 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 174
"An Act establishing the Alaska Invasive Species Council in the
Department of Fish and Game; relating to management of invasive
species; and providing for an effective date."
4:43:01 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR, speaking as the sponsor of SB 174, provided a
brief overview. He said this legislation would help prevent,
eradicate, and control invasive species in Alaska and would
reduce their long-term impacts. He provided several examples of
invasive species and their impacts.
4:44:19 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL opened public testimony on SB 174.
4:44:33 PM
AL BARRETTE, representing self, Fairbanks, Alaska, testified
with concerns on SB 174. He said that AS 16.05.255 gives the
Board of Game some authority on this issue. The board has
created regulations under 5 AAC 92.029. He suggested adding a
Board of Game member to the council. He expressed concern that
SB 174 would result in two competing statutes.
4:46:45 PM
KIM TITUS, representing self, Juneau, Alaska, testified with
concerns on SB 174. He said he is a retired wildlife
professional and provided a brief overview of his work around
the state. He said he is an avid user of Alaska's fish and
wildlife resources and expressed a desire to keep [invasive
species] out of Alaska. He expressed support for the creation of
the Alaska Invasive Species Council and for broad representation
on the proposed council; however, he questioned why there is no
federal land management agency representation. He noted that SB
174 designs a complex, non-regulatory coordination system. He
said there is a fair amount of invasive species work occurring
in the state, including work done by the Alaska Department of
Fish and Game (ADF&G).
MR. TITUS noted that 5 AAC 92.029 restricts the introduction of
non-native wildlife and associated diseases into the state. DNR
has a strategic plan for invasive weed and agricultural pest
management and prevention. He expressed concern related to the
definitions of "invasive species," "invasive species
management," and "non-native species." He said these definitions
do not consider the natural progression of species into and/or
across the state. He offered examples to illustrate these
concerns. He opined that SB 174 is overly complex insofar as it
applies to activities that are already occurring in the state.
4:49:48 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on SB 174.
4:50:02 PM
RACHEL LEVY, Staff, Senator Forrest Dunbar, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, presented the sectional analysis
for SB 174:
[Original punctuation provided.]
SECTIONAL ANALYSIS
SB 174: INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT
Version A (34-LS0901\A)
4.23.2025
"An Act establishing the Alaska Invasive Species
Council in the Department of Fish and Game; relating
to management of invasive species; and providing for
an effective date."
Section 1 Amends AS 16.20 to add three subsections.
AS 16.20.800 establishes the 11-person Alaska Invasive
Species Council; outlines the council's role in
managing invasive species; and establishes the form,
function, membership, responsibilities, and
expectations of the council. AS 16.20.810 establishes
the invasive species response fund as an account in
the general fund. AS 16.20.850 defines "council,"
"department," "invasive species," "manage invasive
species," and "non-native species."
Section 2 Sets a date of repeal for the new
subsections of July 1, 2035
Section 3 Amends the uncodified law of the State of
Alaska to add a new section detailing (a) the
appointment and terms of members by the governor and
(b) the timing of the first meeting within 90 days of
appointment of members and the number of meetings
required in the initial year at four.
Section 4 Sets an immediate effective date under AS
01.10.070(c).
4:51:15 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR explained that his interest in invasive species
management began with a slug species in Cordova. He shared that
he attended a meeting of the Alaska Invasive Species Partnership
(AKISP) in 2022. He said the partnership has identified a need
for greater coordination of the invasive species work being done
in the state. He stated that many professionals working on this
issue are in support of the proposed council. Eighteen states
have similar councils. He surmised that none of those states
rely on their state's natural resources to the degree that
Alaska does. He emphasized Alaska's pristine environment and
said invasive species have the potential to do great harm. He
said he is working with another legislator on invasive species
issues, specifically European green crab, which is threatening
red king crab populations. He reiterated that professionals who
work with invasive species requested the creation of the
council.
4:52:55 PM
SENATOR CLAMAN said European choke cherry is an invasive species
impacting the Anchorage area. He explained that, in addition to
removal, there are concerns related to the use of chemicals. He
commented that protecting the natural habitat comes with a
diverse set of challenges.
4:53:26 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR replied that as a member of the Anchorage
Assembly one he worked to ban the sale of European choke cherry
(Prunus padus). He explained that the Alaska Department of
Transportation and Public Facilities (DOTPF) planted European
choke cherry for erosion control. He emphasized that this is an
example of a lack of communication and coordination between
departments. He briefly discussed the negative environmental
impacts of European choke cherry.
4:54:25 PM
SENATOR HUGHES asked why AKISP could not address this issue,
rather than creating a separate entity.
4:54:45 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR replied that AKISP has expressed frustration at
the limited number of invasive species addressed in Alaska
Statutes. He explained that AKISP has informed the department
that additional species should be added; however, those changes
have not been made. He shared his understanding that AKISP
believes creating an official council within ADF&G would be a
more effective way to address this issue. He noted that private
organizations are working to address invasive species
management; however, creating a council would provide an
official forum through which to address these issues.
4:55:45 PM
[CHAIR GIESSEL reopened public testimony on SB 174.]
4:56:17 PM
CASEY DINKEL, Manager, Alaska Plant Materials Center, Division
of Agriculture, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Palmer,
Alaska, provided information related to SB 174. He said the
Alaska Plant Materials Center hosts and works with Cody
Jacobson, the state's invasive plant coordinator to manage
invasive species throughout the state. He briefly discussed
Elodea (waterweed) an invasive aquatic weed that Mr. Jacobson
has been working on eliminating. He noted that Elodea has been a
focus for the past several years. The Division of Agriculture is
unable to address all invasive plant issues across the state
simultaneously. He stated that there are many invasive species
in Alaska's agricultural sector, including orange hawkweed and
bird vetch. He said Mr. Jacobson works closely with agencies
across the state to address the different invasive species. He
indicated that the invasive species council would provide an
additional layer of information to the industry and indicated
that this would help the Division of Agriculture tackle invasive
species issues. He emphasized that successfully addressing
invasive species requires statewide coordination and funding.
4:59:00 PM
[CHAIR GIESSEL closed public testimony on SB 174.]
4:59:06 PM
SENATOR DUNBAR thanked the committee.
4:59:14 PM
CHAIR GIESSEL held SB 174 in committee.
5:00:16 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.