Hot Topics in Alaska

Learn about some of EPA's priority work in Alaska.

Bristol Bay

EPA's Final Determination limits the disposal of dredged and fill material associated with developing the Pebble deposit in certain waters that are important to sustaining the region’s salmon resources.

• Learn more about EPA's efforts to protect the Bristol Bay watershed.

Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act

The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 included the transfer of 44 million acres to Alaska Native regional and village corporations. Some of these lands became contaminated prior to the conveyance (transfer) from a variety of past activities such as fuel storage, power generation, waste handling practices, mining and other activities.

• Learn more about contamination on ANCSA conveyed lands.

Fairbanks air quality

EPA is working with state and local officials to address deficiencies in Alaska's nonattainment plan to ensure the area reaches attainment of air quality standards for fine particulate matter (PM_2.5).

• Learn more about the Fairbanks Air Quality Plan.

Arctic Council

The Arctic Council, established in 1996, is a high level international forum that promotes cooperation among Arctic nations on sustainable development and environmental protection.  As the Arctic environment changes, leading to increased shipping, economic, and other activities, it becomes increasingly important that the U.S. work closely with our Arctic allies.  

• Learn more about EPA's role in the Arctic Council.

Superfund

Historical operations at Eielson Air Force Base have generated varying quantities of hazardous and nonhazardous wastes from industrial and airfield operations, fire training, and fuel management. The site is located in Fairbanks North Star Borough about 24 miles southeast of Fairbanks.

• Learn more about the Eielson Air Force Base Superfund site.

The Salt Chuck Mine is an inactive former gold, silver, copper, and palladium mine on Prince of Wales Island in the Tongass National Forest at the northern end of Kasaan Bay in southeast Alaska. EPA added the site to the Superfund cleanup list in 2010.

• Learn more about the Salt Chuck Mine Superfund site.

Find more Superfund sites in Alaska.

Tribal programs

EPA's Region 10 office serves 271 federally recognized Tribes, including 229 Tribes in Alaska.

• Learn more about EPA Region 10's Tribal programs.