Murkowski Speaks to Long-Term Protections for Bristol Bay

In a video statement to the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) yesterday, Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski framed the Pebble Mine project as being “stopped” for now and said, “We need longer-term protections for the region that can also provide enduring value for Alaskans.” Murkowski went on to say, “I plan to build on my appropriations language from last year to make sure that the Bristol Bay region remains protected. “

ADN has a summary of Senator Murkowski’s comments at the AFN Convention here.

Last weekend, Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan repeatedly stated “the Pebble Mine project is dead” during a debate with challenger Al Gross. While Bristol Bay fishermen applaud the Senators for clarifying their stance on Pebble Mine recent weeks, the fact remains that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has yet to deny or issue a permit. BBRSDA and other groups opposed to the Pebble Mine will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that federal regulators follow applicable environmental law pertaining to the permitting process, and will also seek durable protections for the world’s most abundant salmon resource. We look forward to hearing more about what specific actions Alaska’s senators will take to regarding the Pebble Mine project.