State seeks public comment on Galena gravel extraction permit

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is accepting public comments through May 29 on a water quality certification for gravel extraction from the Yukon River near Galena.

Yukon River & Road Transport LLC has applied for a permit to extract up to 1,000 cubic yards of gravel annually from a sandbar on the right bank of the Yukon River. The company plans to extract 5,000 cubic yards total over five years for use in roads, foundations, and concrete production.

The extraction would occur during low water periods when the sandbar is exposed and frozen. Heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, and dump trucks would remove material from approximately 0.34 acres of riverine habitat each year. The company states it would not extract gravel if surface water is present on the sandbar.

The project site is located at coordinates 64.732068, -156.95388 in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area. Work would take place 200 feet below the ordinary high-water mark. The extraction area would be sloped toward the river to prevent trapping fish after high water events.

The state is reviewing whether the activity complies with Clean Water Act requirements and Alaska Water Quality Standards. The department may approve, approve with conditions, or deny the certification.

Comments can be submitted through the DEC website at dec.alaska.gov/commish/public-notices or by email to [email protected] with subject line POA-1982-00194-M17 v1.0. For questions, contact [email protected] or call 907-269-6285.