DNR proposes giving up state claim near Cantwell for Native veteran allotment

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources proposed Friday giving up the state's claim to about 160 acres south of Cantwell so the land can go to an Alaska Native Vietnam-era veteran's allotment under the federal Dingell Act.

The parcel sits about 2.5 miles east of Parks Highway mile marker 194. The state selected the land but does not own it. It is under federal management and ownership, according to the public notice. The state would give up the surface estate, including sand and gravel, while keeping oil, gas and mineral interests.

A BLM draft survey plan ties the allotment application to the Estate of Gilbert Dementi. The plan limits the allotment to no more than 160 acres.

The 2019 Dingell Act lets eligible Alaska Native veterans apply for 2.5 to 160 acres of land the state has selected, if the state agrees to voluntarily relinquish it. Veterans must have served between Aug. 5, 1964, and Dec. 31, 1971. Unlike earlier allotment laws, the program does not require the applicant to have personally used or occupied the land. The Alaska Native Vietnam-era Veterans Land Allotment Program opened Dec. 28, 2020, and accepts applications through Dec. 29, 2030.

The state has made similar proposals this year. In August, DNR proposed giving up its claim to 480 acres on the Yukon so three other veterans could get allotments.

Written comments are due by 3 pm Dec. 16 to DNR's Realty Services Section. Only people who comment in writing by that deadline may ask DNR to reconsider its final decision.

DNR will issue its decision without further notice, send it to commenters and post it on the state's online public notice portal.