State seeks public comment on Tetlin gold exploration drilling plan

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through April 27 on a proposal by Peak Gold LLC to conduct diamond core exploration drilling near Tetlin in the Tok Mining District.

The company has applied for permits to drill on state lands along the Tok River, with associated trail construction. The exploration would take place on roughly 18 sections of state land in the Copper River Meridian. If approved, the authorization would run through December 31, 2035.

The application includes requests for a Plan of Operation Approval and Reclamation Plan Approval under state hardrock mining regulations. The state may also authorize cross-country travel on state lands outside the specific mining locations.

Written comments must be received by 5:00 PM Alaska Standard Time on April 27, 2026. Comments should be sent to the Division of Mining, Land and Water at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or emailed to [email protected].

Questions about the application or requests to view the full packet can be directed to Michael Ladouceur at (907) 451-2784. The state will review all comments before deciding whether to issue an authorization, which may include stipulations or modifications to the proposed activity.

Individuals with disabilities who need auxiliary aids to comment should contact Alaska Relay at 711 or 800-770-8973 for TTY services.