The Department of Natural Resources has initiated a planning process that will result in the revision of the Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers Management Plan. In 1988, the Alaska legislature passed the Recreation Rivers Act (AS 41.23.400-41.23.510) to establish certain land and waters as recreation rivers to maintain and enhance them for recreation. Six rivers were designated:
- Little Susitna River
- Deshka River (Kroto Creek / Moose Creek)
- Talkeetna River
- Lake Creek
- Talachulitna River
- Alexander Creek
The Act directed the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to prepare a management plan to include long range guidelines and management practices for the rivers. The original Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers Management Plan was completed and adopted in August of 1991 and provides management intent for each river segment, guidelines for recreational and commercial use, and guidelines for issuance of leases and permits on state land.
Much has changed in the 30 years since the original plan was adopted that needs to be recognized and addressed. In response, DNR is initiating a plan revision process. Planning is a way of sorting through concerns and the many possibilities for using the river corridors. Developing plans is challenging because people have differing ideas of how land and waters can best be used. Also, not all desired uses are compatible in the same place at the same time. Through this planning process, we will work to find alternatives with the greatest benefits for all Alaskans. Public involvement is essential to ensure that future actions are not only consistent with the agency mission and the enabling legislation, but also present a shared vision for the future of the Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers.
You are invited to become part of this planning effort by assisting us in identifying the range of issues that should be addressed during this effort and later by reviewing and commenting on draft documents. Public scoping workshops will be held to gather information and discuss issues. The following workshops have been scheduled:
Your written comments are encouraged during this initial scoping stage and can be submitted by mail or email to the address below. Additionally, DNR has created a questionnaire to help inform development of this plan. To access the questionnaire visit: https://arcg.is/0uKLiK. Responses to the questionnaire and scoping comments must be received no later than August 15th, 2022.
For more information and updates on the plan process, visit: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/planning/mgtplans/susitna-revision/
Email: Recreationrivers@alaska.gov
Phone: (907) 269-8593
Mail: Recreation Rivers Management Planning
550 West 7th Ave, Suite 1050
Anchorage, Alaska 99501-3579
Virtual Workshop Information
A virtual Public Scoping Workshop will be held on August 2, 2022 from 1:00-3:00 PM via Microsoft Teams.
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Or call in (audio only)
+1 907-202-7104,,569773138# United States, Anchorage
Phone Conference ID: 569 773 138#
The State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources, complies with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Individuals with disabilities who may need auxiliary aides, services, or special modifications to submit a comment or participate in a meeting, should contact the person(s) indicated above or contact the state TDD number (907)269-8411 seven days (7) in advance of meetings to arrange accommodations.