MEA seeks state easement to extend power lines to Big Lake homes

Matanuska Electric Association is requesting state approval for a utility easement to install power lines serving residential customers in Big Lake, with public comments due by June 12, 2026.

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources received the application for a 370-foot-long, 30-foot-wide easement totaling about 0.25 acres on state-managed land. The project would install single-phase, 7,200-volt overhead electric lines in Section 17, Township 17 North, Range 3 West, Seward Meridian.

MEA typically maintains easements 30 feet wide — 15 feet on either side of pole centers — to allow year-round access for maintenance and repairs. The cooperative clears vegetation along its rights-of-way on a seven-year cycle, including in Big Lake-area communities.

MEA requested a separate easement in January 2025 to install utility lines within Crooked Lake in Big Lake.

If approved, the easement would be granted for an indefinite term. The final easement may differ from the application.

Written comments must be received by June 12, 2026, at the Division of Mining, Land and Water, Southcentral Regional Land Office, 550 W. 7th Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska 99501. Questions should be directed to Mary Campbell at 907-269-8564 or [email protected].