ADF&G targets GMU 13 moose browse shortage with 54,000-acre Alphabet Hills burn

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game and its partners plan to burn approximately 54,000 acres in the Alphabet Hills of Game Management Unit 13 beginning this month, targeting mature black spruce stands that have crowded out the willow and dwarf birch moose depend on for winter browse. Smoke will be visible near Lake Louise and the Alphabet Hills during and after operations. Habitat benefits are expected five to fifteen years after treatment, not this season.

Natural ignitions are rare in the Alphabet Hills, so the vegetation has not cycled through the early-succession stage that produces high-quality forage. The project has been in development since at least 2020, when ADF&G published its ecological rationale and BLM sought public comment on a proposal to burn roughly 53,000 acres near the West Fork, Gulkana, and Susitna Rivers. A 2004 prescribed fire in the same area produced observable habitat gains, with biologists noting increased willow browse for moose in the treated area.

"Prescribed burns are one of our most effective tools for improving habitat at a scale that benefits wildlife populations," said John Wagoner, Conservation Coordinator with ADF&G. "These burns mimic the natural effects of wildfire but are conducted under controlled conditions to meet habitat objectives while ensuring public and staff safety."

Ignition is planned for mid to late July using aerial equipment. Burns will proceed only under strict burn plan criteria for temperature, wind, and humidity. A small test fire will be conducted before full ignition to confirm favorable conditions. If 2026 weather does not cooperate, the project moves to summer 2027. ADF&G noted in March 2026 comments to the Federal Subsistence Board that there are no current conservation concerns for moose in GMU 13. The agency expects habitat benefits to materialize five to fifteen years after treatment. Air quality advisories will be posted at dec.alaska.gov/air/air-monitoring during operations. For updates, the public can monitor local announcements on ADF&G's Facebook page at facebook.com/alaskafishandgame.