State seeks public comment on expanded Skwentna lodge lease through May 29

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 29, 2026, on a proposal to expand and extend a land lease for a commercial recreation lodge near Skwentna.

The state has issued a preliminary decision to amend the existing 10-year lease held by EL WLL Owner LLC. The amendment would allow increased infrastructure to support the privately owned lodge and extend the lease term to 30 years. The site is located in the northeast quarter of Section 20, Township 22 North, Range 15 West, Seward Meridian.

The public can review the preliminary decision at the state's online public notices website. People can also declare competitive interest in developing the site for a similar purpose.

Written comments and declarations of interest must be received by 11:59 p.m. on May 29, 2026. Under state law, only people who submit written comments during this period will be eligible to appeal the department's final decision.

Questions should be directed to Audrey Gilroy at the Southcentral Regional Land Office at 907-269-8111 or [email protected]. Comments can be mailed to 550 W. 7th Ave., Suite 900C, Anchorage, AK 99501-3577, or submitted by email or fax at 907-269-8913.

Individuals with audio impairments can call Relay Alaska at 711 or 800-770-8973 for assistance at no cost.