Inletkeeper Blog
Proposed Johnson Tract Gold Mine Threatens Endangered Belugas and Would Industrialize Tuxedni Bay
The proposed Johnson Tract Mine, a non-critical gold mine proposed within Lake Clark National Park, would industrialize the west side of Cook Inlet. The effects of this industrialization would ripple out and threaten the only known winter foraging habitat of the critically endangered Cook Inlet Beluga whale, the last stronghold of Cook Inlet’s razor back clam beds still accessed for subsistence each year, and intact habitat for salmon, bears and birds which are the bedrock of the thriving eco-tourism economy in the region.
The Year Ahead: Defending Alaska’s Future Under a New Administration
While some may rally behind slogans like “Drill, baby, drill,” the facts tell a different story: more than 6,000 approved permits for fossil fuel extraction on federal lands remain idle. The push for further deregulation isn’t about necessity—it’s about corporate greed at the expense of Alaskans’ future.
NEW Freshwater Temperature Action Plan
The new Action Plan identifies the highest priority actions for the next 10 years that will lead to greater protection of Alaska’s fish and wild salmon habitat from the impacts of thermal change. The keys to success will be continued collaboration and coordination among data collectors and to engage resource managers, who need to understand changing thermal patterns and the implications for freshwater resources to address our fisheries crisis.
Fast Tracking Johnson Tract
The Department of Interior and National Park Service canceled a public comment period on their draft resource analysis assessing a proposed easement for the haul road and port facility. The mine would use this infrastructure to transport ore through Lake Clark National Park & Preserve to Tuxedni Bay, where a deep water port would be constructed and the ore shipped out for processing. The blatant lack of public process, though legal in this particular case, is a clear indicator of what’s to come: an insider game of strong-arming to pressure regulators into rubber stamp permits as quickly as possible.
A Taste of Togetherness: The Power of Community in Local Food Systems
Because of Inletkeeper’s support and dedication to the Alaska Food Hub these past nine years we have been able to advocate for a more equitable future and to participate in opportunities that allow transformation. As we reflect on the success and growth of the Alaska Food Hub these past nine years, it’s clear that Alaska’s local food journey is just beginning and we are grateful to have played a small part.
Logging Progress as Thermal Change Continues
Inletkeeper developed a statewide Stream Temperature Action Plan 12 years ago. Now it’s time for a progress report to capture what has been achieved collectively around the state in our efforts to foster greater protection of Alaska’s wild salmon habitat as thermal change continues.
Your Contributions Fuel Every Victory
Membership is the backbone of Inletkeeper. As a community-based organization, we not only work to protect our communities but we’re driven by them. Your support ensures we can react quickly to emerging threats, sustain vital programs, and fight for a resilient and thriving Cook Inlet | Tikahtnu watershed.
Our Modern Lives Demand Energy – So We Must Demand Energy We Can Live With
We now have an opportunity that the concerned citizens of 30 years ago could only have hoped for. With technology finally ready to realize the massive renewable energy opportunities in our wind, sun, and small hydro prospects (with tidal and geothermal technologies developing rapidly), we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels for our energy needs. Our economic interest also aligns with drastically reducing gas consumption in the very near future and creating the next generation of local energy jobs.
From the Deepest Night, a Spark of Light: Celebrating a Decade of Impact on the Central Peninsula
This time of year is also often difficult. Winter blues and darkness nip at all of our heels. Yet, even in this deep shadow, a spark of light persists—a promise of the returning sun, of renewed growth and energy. This year, as we mark the solstice, Cook Inletkeeper also celebrates another kind of light: the enduring impact of the work we have been able to do with and because of YOU over the past decade in the Central Peninsula. Just as the sun’s return brings life back to the land, your support has fueled our efforts to safeguard our waters, promote clean energy, and empower our communities.
Homer Drawdown’s Energy Fair
The Homer Energy Fair will help you learn how to reduce energy costs and lower your carbon footprint. You will have the opportunity to talk to experts about innovative ways to heat, power, ventilate, and insulate your homes and businesses. Additionally, you can understand how to install and maintain cost-effective energy systems, as well as obtain State and Federal rebates and other financial incentives for energy upgrades. Finally, you’ll learn about how your local governments and utilities are planning for future energy supplies.