The timing of two of the appointments — along with the COVID-19 emergency — makes it possible that the appointees could set policy for Alaska’s commercial, sport and subsistence fisheries without first being confirmed by lawmakers.
"Pebble Mine"
Canadian developer asks for more time before starting open-pit mine upstream of Wrangell
The mine’s environmental assessment predates the Mount Polley disaster. If the extension is granted, the assessment would be 12 years old by the time the developer got started.
State now has an opportunity to veto Pebble Mine. Pebble foes aren’t getting their hopes up.
The state’s opportunity to veto the project rests with the Department of Environmental Conservation. Its commissioner used to lobby for the Pebble Mine.
Corps sets conditions for Pebble Mine that may be impossible to meet
“The Corps finds that the project, as currently proposed, cannot be permitted under section 404 of the Clean Water Act,” the U.S. Army said in an official statement.
No block: Pebble CEO says mine is still on track with federal permits
The Army Corps of Engineers issued new conditions for protecting wetlands and streams, but their letter does not prohibit the mine outright.
Joe Biden: Bristol Bay region is ‘no place for a mine’
Biden said he stands by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Obama-era proposal to block the project under the Clean Water Act.