Dan Bross, KUAC - Fairbanks
Dan Bross is a reporter at KUAC in Fairbanks.
Public Turns Out For Eielson Meetings
The Air Force is wrapping up a series of public meetings in Alaska tonight in North Pole. The scoping sessions are to identify issues to consider in an environmental impact statement for the proposed downsizing of Eielson Air Force Base. The cost savings of moving an F-16 squadron from Fairbanks to Anchorage have faced a range of opposition and questions at meetings in both communities.
Air Force Seeking Feedback On F-16 Relocation Proposal
The Air Force is beginning a series of public meetings on its proposal to move an F-16 squadron from Eielson Air Force base in North Pole to Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson in Anchorage. Meetings are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday in Anchorage and Palmer, and in Fairbanks and North Pole Wednesday and Thursday. Fairbanks is rallying to protect the local Air Force installation from downsizing.
Explosion Rocks Fairbanks Neighborhood
An explosion rocked a Fairbanks neighborhood over the weekend. Alaska State Troopers say the blast occurred on a makeshift shooting range on private property in the Chena Ridge area Saturday afternoon. Trooper spokeswoman Megan Peters says no injuries were reported, but there was damage to area homes.
Alaska Plant Tapped As Health Supplement
A plant tapped as a health supplement offers an economic opportunity in Alaska. Rhodiola prospers in high latitudes and has long been recognized by Alaska Natives for its medicinal qualities. Some Alaska farmers are positioning to sell into a lucrative world market.
Fairbanks Shies Away From Marijuana Dispensary Proposal
The City of Fairbanks is being asked to authorize operation of the state’s first medical marijuana dispensary. A local woman is pushing the city to legalize operation of a business that could cultivate and sell the drug to approved medical users.
UAF Moves Forward With Power, Heating Plant Replacement Plan
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is pushing ahead with a plan to replace its aging power and heating plant. The current facility, built in 1962, will be replaced with one that still primarily relies on coal, but can also burn other fuels, including biomass and natural gas.
In-State Gas Line Plan Tweaked
The state run company pursuing a smaller volume in-state bullet line to bring North Slope gas to Fairbanks, Anchorage and other communities, has overhauled the project. The new plan puts the gas line on a diet.
State Reviews Plans To Bring North Slope LNG To Fairbanks
The state is reviewing proposals for liquefying North Slope gas, trucking it to Fairbanks, and distributing it to consumers. The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority last month solicited letters of interest in the project, and agency spokesman Karsten Rodvik says they received 16 replies by a Jan. 8 deadline.
Burning Death Prompts Questions And Concerns
The Fairbanks Native community and local officials came together Thursday to share information about the recent fire death of a homeless man. Johnny Wallis, a long time Fairbanks resident who lived on the streets, was found burning in the downtown post office on New Year’s Day. Thursday’s press conference provided a range of views, but little clarity on the disturbing incident.
Wax Buildup Causing Pipeline Problems
Wax buildup caused by low oil throughput is continuing to cause problems for Trans Alaska Pipeline operators. The wax is at the heart of recent trouble with mechanical pigs used to clean the inside of the pipeline.
Alaska DEC Suing Operators Of Outdoor Wood-Powered Boilers In Fairbanks
Pollution from two outdoor wood boilers in Fairbanks has resulted in the state filing suit against the operators. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is suing Andrew and Gloria Straughn to halt operation of the boilers at rental properties they own in a neighborhood near Wood River Elementary School.
Parnell Administration To Introduce New Oil Tax Reform Legislation
The Parnell administration is poised to introduce oil tax reform legislation again. Previous attempts have failed to gain enough support to pass the state legislature. The new bill was previewed for the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce Tuesday. It incorporates some ideas raised in recent year’s discussions.
Analyst Alleges Mismanagement Of TAPS
A new report by independent oil industry analyst Richard Fineberg alleges mismanagement of the Trans Alaska Pipeline. It centers on recent years incidents in which pigs, mechanical devices used to inspect and clean the inside of the pipeline, failed to show up where operators expected.
New Book Explores Frontier Mythology
A new book by Judy Kleinfeld of Fairbanks explores a mythology often lived out in Alaska. “The Frontier Romance” looks at why people head north to carve out an existence off the beaten track.
Fairbanks On Track For Worst December Air Quality On Record
Fairbanks is on track for the worst December air quality on record. Cold stagnant conditions combined with emissions from heating and other sources are resulting in fine particulate pollution in excess of federal standards. With more extreme cold in the forecast, the prognosis isn’t good.
Doyon Readies For Exploration
Doyon is seeking permits to mobilize for oil and gas exploration work in the Yukon Flats and Nenana Basin. The permits for cross country travel are out for public comment.
Final Chen Case Resolved
A Ft. Wainwright based soldier implicated in a hazing case is being discharged from the Army. Lieutenant Daniel L. Schwartz is the last of 8 Stryker Brigade members charged related to physical and verbal abuse that resulted in the suicide of an army private last year in Afghanistan.
State Commission Challenges Park Service Hearings
A state commission is taking issue with the number of public hearings scheduled by the National Park Service on proposed regulations that would block some state sport hunts for bears, wolves and coyotes in several national preserves.
Friends Not Giving Up on Missing Wilderness Instructor
Friends of missing wilderness survival instructor Thomas Seibold haven’t giving up hope of finding him. The search for the 31-year old German outdoorsman officially ended in November, but those who know him say there’s reason to resume looking.
Preliminary Engineering Underway For Susitna Watana Dam
Preliminary engineering is underway for the proposed Susitna Watana hydro electric dam. The state has hired Colorado based MWH Global to develop designs for the project, which would provide rail belt power.