Author: The Tundra Drums Staff

Drivers traveling the Richardson Highway should expect short delays as maintenance work is scheduled between mileposts 297 and 298. Road crews will be working in the area with traffic controlled by a flagger and pilot car. Motorists can expect delays of up to 15 to 20 minutes while work is underway. Officials are advising travelers to plan extra time, reduce speeds through the work zone, and follow all traffic control instructions. The maintenance is part of ongoing efforts to improve roadway conditions and safety. Also Read: DOT&PF Monitoring Flooding Along Richardson Highway in Valdez Drivers are thanked for their patience…

Organizers of the Alaska Governor’s Safety & Health Conference are inviting speakers and topic proposals for the event’s 44th annual gathering, scheduled for April 7–8, 2026, in Anchorage. The conference will be held at the William Egan Convention Center and brings together safety leaders, industry professionals, and frontline experts focused on improving workplace safety and health across Alaska. Conference planners are seeking knowledgeable speakers and innovative session ideas in the following areas: Organizers say proposed sessions should offer practical insights, real-world experience, and strategies that help strengthen safety culture and reduce workplace injuries statewide. Professionals interested in presenting or nominating…

While much of the country marks Groundhog Day by watching for an early spring forecast, Alaskans know winter still has plenty of time left. And yes, groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, do live in Alaska. The groundhog (Marmota monax) inhabits open, grassy areas of east-central Alaska, primarily in Interior regions. They are one of three marmot species found in the state, alongside the Alaska marmot and the hoary marmot. Unlike their lower-48 counterparts, groundhogs in Interior Alaska do not emerge from their dens until late March, long after Groundhog Day has passed. Deep snow, extended cold, and limited daylight keep…

Public participation is running high as outdoor users weigh in during the comment period for the Safer Seward Highway Environmental Assessment (EA), with strong feedback from trail users and the rock-climbing community. Project planners say recreation access has been a key focus of the proposed improvements along the Seward Highway corridor. According to details outlined in the EA, the project would upgrade and expand parking at trailheads without closing any existing trailheads. The plan also includes a separated multi-use path designed to connect with the popular Bird to Gird Trail, improving safety and continuity for cyclists and pedestrians. Climbers have…

Community members are invited to celebrate one of Alaska’s most iconic winter traditions as events begin for the Yukon Quest Alaska Races. Festivities kick off with Meet the Mushers on Thursday, February 5, offering the public a chance to meet the competitors and their sled dog teams ahead of race day. The official start of the races will follow on Saturday, February 7, at 11:00 a.m., when teams take off on their journey in front of spectators. Both events are free and open to the public, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to support mushers, learn more about the race,…

Alaskans interested in traditional skills and hands-on learning are invited to attend a Fur Sewing Handbands workshop this March at the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery. The two-day workshop is part of the Becoming an Outdoors Woman Alaska program and will teach participants the basics of sewing fur handbands, a skill rooted in Alaska’s outdoor and cultural traditions. The sessions are scheduled for: Online registration opens February 9 at 12:00 p.m. for the Friday session and February 17 at 9:00 a.m. for the Saturday session. The cost to attend is $100, which includes instruction, equipment use, and refreshments. Organizers…

Alaska employers are being reminded to submit their annual injury and illness data to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) using the agency’s Injury Tracking Application (ITA). The submission window runs from January 2 through March 2, 2026, and applies to establishments that meet OSHA’s size and industry requirements. The data helps OSHA track workplace safety trends and target prevention efforts nationwide. Employers can find guidance and submit required information at osha.gov/injuryreporting. For businesses that need assistance, AKOSH Consultation & Training is offering free and confidential support. Employers can contact AKOSH at (907) 269-4955 for help understanding requirements, preparing…

February is National Senior Independence Month, and AARP is marking the occasion by offering a series of free online programs designed to support safety, well-being, and independence for older adults across Alaska. The virtual events run throughout February and cover topics ranging from daily wellness and road safety to fall prevention and home fire safety. Sessions are short, accessible, and open to the public. You do not need to be an AARP member to attend. The February schedule includes: The programs are hosted by AARP in partnership with the Alaska Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Organizers say the goal…

Residents are invited to review and comment on proposed upgrades to Minnie Street during a public open house hosted by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF). The open house will focus on planned improvements along Minnie Street between Illinois Street and the Noyes Slough bridge. Proposed changes include installing new ADA-accessible sidewalks on both sides of the roadway, relocating overhead utilities underground, enhancing drainage and stormwater treatment, and resurfacing the street with new pavement, striping, and signage to improve safety and travel conditions. The event is scheduled for February 3, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., at…

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is reminding drivers to stay alert for moose on Alaska roadways, warning that the state has one of the highest rates of moose-vehicle collisions per mile driven anywhere in the world. Wildlife officials say moose can suddenly enter traffic without warning, creating dangerous conditions for motorists and often resulting in fatal outcomes for both people and animals. Low light, winter conditions, and roadside vegetation can make spotting moose especially difficult. ADF&G is encouraging drivers to take a simple step when they see wildlife near or on the road: flash hazard lights to alert…

Nominations are now open for the Conservation Achievement Awards, offering Alaskans an opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact on conservation across the state. The awards are presented by the Alaska Conservation Foundation and honor efforts that protect Alaska’s lands, waters, wildlife, and communities. Organizers say the nomination process is designed to highlight leadership, innovation, and long-term commitment to conservation values. Community members are encouraged to submit nominations for people or groups whose work has advanced environmental stewardship, wildlife protection, or sustainable practices in Alaska. Past honorees have included conservation leaders, community advocates, and organizations whose efforts…

Anglers targeting king salmon at the Eklutna Tailrace may see increased fishing activity in the coming seasons following a large smolt release by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). According to ADF&G Sport Fishing staff for Southcentral Alaska, approximately 400,000 king salmon smolt have been released at the Eklutna Tailrace. The annual release is part of the state’s fisheries enhancement efforts aimed at supporting future king salmon returns and maintaining recreational fishing opportunities in the area. The Eklutna Tailrace, located downstream of the Eklutna Hydroelectric Project, is a well-known fishing spot for local anglers, particularly during king salmon…