The Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released the Public Review Draft of the Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers Management Plan for public review and comment. Following the public review period, DNR intends to adopt the plan with any changes that may result from the input received. Once adopted, this plan will serve as the basis for the management of these recreation rivers for the next 20 years. The primary purpose for the establishment of the six recreation rivers is their maintenance and enhancement for recreation.

The original Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers Management Plan was completed in August of 1991. Much has changed in the 30+ years since the original plan was adopted that needs to be recognized and addressed.  Public involvement is essential to ensure that future actions are not only consistent with the DNR’s mission and the enabling legislation, but also present a shared vision for the future of the Susitna Basin Recreation Rivers.

Your written comments are encouraged during this public comment period. Inletkeeper is particularly interested in:

• keeping riparian areas intact and protected from excessive boat wakes and ORV traffic;
• ensuring groundwater connections are identified and protected to help buffer rising stream temperatures;
• restricting development within these watersheds which requires significant water withdrawals of surface water or groundwater; and 
• outreach to recreational users about ways to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Comments must be received by March 5, 2024 by mail, email or through the website provided below. To review or download an electronic version of the Public Review Draft or to submit comments online, visit: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/planning/mgtplans/susitna-revision/. Comments can also be emailed to recreationrivers@alaska.gov