State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources
Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Notice of Public Scoping for Possible Updates and Revisions to DNR Regulations Under Administrative Order 266 
11 AAC 12, 11 AAC 18, 11 AAC 20, 11 AAC 21
State Park Land and Water

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, is considering whether it should revise regulating the use of state park land and water. Specifically, DNR is considering revising regulations in order to provide outdoor recreation opportunities, enhance public safety, provide public clarity, and update existing regulations to define personal watercraft (PWCs), which waters are open to PWCs, how PWC areas are posted, and management of potential seasonal closures.

The purpose of this notice is to ask the public for their ideas and suggestions for possible changes and improvements related solely to PWCs in 11 AAC 12, 11 AAC 18, 11 AAC 20, and 11 AAC 21 before the department undertakes the task of drafting any specific proposed revisions of these regulations for public review. These ideas and suggestions can be as broad or as narrow, or as general or as specific, as a submitter may wish.

The department is not currently proposing any specific changes at this time. There are no draft regulations to review. The department is soliciting feedback and comments from the public on how they would improve regulations regarding the use of PWCs in State Park managed lands and waters before the formal process of drafting any proposed changes begins. 

Text for existing regulations governing the use of state park land and water is online at: http://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp#11.12.010.

Written suggestions and other input must be received by the department no later than 5:00 p.m. on February 1, 2024, and may be submitted by mail or email to:

DPOR Regulations Team

Alaska Department of Natural Resources

550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1380

Anchorage, Alaska 99501-3579

dpor.regulations@alaska.gov

The department will consider information submitted if and when it proposes regulatory revisions to the chapters referenced above. Any proposed regulatory revisions will subsequently be public noticed and made available for public review and comment under AS 44.62, the Alaska Administrative Procedures Act.

The department reserves the right to waive technical defects in this publication. The State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources, complies with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Individuals who may need auxiliary aids, services, or special modifications to participate in this scoping request may contact the above address, email, or the TDD number (907)269-8411.

Published November 15, 2023.  
Revised on December 15, 2023 to extend comment period from December 29, 2023 to February 1, 2024.