RDC Comments on DNR Water Regulations

March 18, 2016

Department of Natural Resources
Division of Mining, Land & Water
Program Support Section
550 W. 7th Ave., Ste. 1070
Anchorage, AK 99501-3579

Via email to [email protected] 

RE: Notice of Public Scoping for Possible Updates and Revisions of DNR Regulations Under Administrative Order 266 11 AAC 93, Water Management

To Whom It May Concern:

The Resource Development Council of Alaska for Alaska, Inc. (RDC) is writing to comment on the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) scoping for revisions to the water management regulations.

RDC is a statewide business association comprised of individuals and companies from Alaska’s oil and gas, mining, forest products, tourism and fisheries industries. RDC’s membership includes Alaska Native Corporations, local communities, organized labor, and industry support firms. RDC’s purpose is to encourage a strong, diversified private sector in Alaska and expand the state’s economic base through the responsible development of our natural resources.

First, thank you for the opportunity to provide comments. Second, RDC writes in support of the five recommendations made in the technical comment letter by the Alaska Miners Association (AMA) submitted on March 18, 2016. RDC supports policies aimed at ensuring a reliable process, and advocates for timely and efficient permitting processes based on sound science and feasibility.

In addition to supporting AMA’s comments, RDC notes that if further regulations or revisions to existing regulations are proposed, we will work with our members to provide meaningful feedback from the regulated community. Collaborating with affected groups will result in clearer, more effective regulations that allow for productive project development in the State while enhancing the State’s management of resources. 

Thank you again for the opportunity to comment. We look forward to further opportunities to offer comments and support.

 

Sincerely,

Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc