Haines-based hunting guide Larry Benda was hiking with his client, Glen Eckett of Texas, when Eckett fell, according to troopers. He sustained a non-life-threatening injury but was unable to hike back down. The two were on a ridge to the Northeast of Chilkoot Lake.
Tourism
Lower 48 ivory bans hit Alaska Native carvers
This July, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s near-total ban on the commercial ivory trade went into effect. Regulatory changes are starting to bite into Alaska’s ivory market.
Mushers await release of documentary criticizing the sport
Alaska mushers are waiting for the release of a Canadian-made documentary film that is purportedly damaging to sled-dog racing.
Gates on Chilkoot Corridor will not limit access, state parks say
The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is installing gates at Haines most popular bear viewing area: the Chilkoot River Corridor. It’s the first step in the effort to improve the road. While the work is happening this week, vehicle access is limited. But state parks staff say locals shouldn’t worry about the gate restricting access to the recreation area in the future.
Mushers frustrated over allowing cell phones on Iditarod trail
The race’s Trail Committee is upholding rule 35, which for the first-time ever will allow the use of two-way communication devices, including cell phones and satellite phones along the trail.
State raising fees for hunting, fishing licenses in 2017
The state Department of Fish and Game has announced that fees will increase for sport fishing, hunting and trapping licenses starting next year.