Author: The Tundra Drums Staff
The Alaska Marine Highway System has welcomed the return of the ferry Aurora to Cordova, marking a positive development for transportation and connectivity in the community. The vessel’s arrival restores an important link for residents, businesses, and travelers who rely on ferry service for movement of people, vehicles, and goods. The Aurora’s return supports continued marine transportation access and reinforces the state ferry system’s role in serving coastal communities. Officials shared the update alongside a scenic photo captured in Cordova, highlighting the ferry docked against a winter sunrise. The return of the Aurora is part of ongoing efforts to keep…
The Alaska Community Action on Toxics (ACAT) has issued an urgent action alert calling on the public to submit comments to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) regarding proposed actions that could affect the Kigluaik Mountains region. According to ACAT, the comment period is critical for protecting Kigluaik lands, waters, and community health, particularly for communities that rely on the area for subsistence, clean water, and cultural practices. The organization is encouraging Alaskans to make their voices heard as part of the state’s environmental review process. Public comments must be submitted by February 2, 2026. ACAT emphasized that timely…
The following public notice has been issued by the Bureau of Land Management regarding submerged lands in the Kwethluk River, Alaska. Local residents may submit comments by February 6, 2026. This notice is published in the Alaska Life Public Notices section of The Tundra Drums website for the convenience of local residents and stakeholders. Notice is hereby given that on February 20, 2019 the State of Alaska finalized an application with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a Recordable Disclaimer of Interest (RDI) pursuant to section 315 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C.…
The following public notice has been issued by the Bureau of Land Management regarding submerged lands in the Goodnews River system. Local residents may submit comments by February 6, 2026. This notice is published in the Alaska Life Public Notices section of The Tundra Drums website for the convenience of local residents and stakeholders. Notice is hereby given that on December 28, 2017, the State of Alaska finalized an application with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a Recordable Disclaimer of Interest (RDI) pursuant to section 315 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C.…
The following public notice has been issued by the Bureau of Land Management regarding submerged lands in the Goodnews River system. Local residents may submit comments by February 6, 2026. Notice is hereby given that on November 2, 2017, the State of Alaska finalized an application with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a Recordable Disclaimer of Interest (RDI) pursuant to section 315 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1745), and the regulations in 43 CFR Subpart 1864, which authorize the BLM to issue an RDI. The BLM casefile for the RDI application…
Welcome to your seismic update from across the state for the week of January 21st. I’mMichael West with the Alaska Earthquake Center, where we monitor ground shaking 24-7.
The Fairbanks Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating Rose Cleaver, a 41-year-old woman reported missing. Police said Cleaver was last seen on Jan. 18 near Kellum Street in Fairbanks. At the time, she was wearing a black trench coat and a purple hat. Also Read: Anchorage Police Spokesperson Resigned After Target Shoplifting Allegation Anyone with information about Cleaver’s whereabouts is urged to contact Fairbanks Police at 907-450-6500 or email njackson@fairbanks.gov. Authorities encourage the public to share the information, noting that even small details could help locate her.
The United States Postal Service has implemented changes to its mail delivery and processing procedures that could affect the postmark date used for time-sensitive documents. Under the updated process, the postmark will now reflect the date an envelope is first processed by an automated sorting machine, rather than the date it is dropped off at a post office or mailbox. Officials said this processing step may occur days after mailing, depending on mail volume and routing. The change could have implications for documents that rely on a postmark to meet deadlines, including tax returns, benefit applications, and other filings, potentially…
The 2026 Alaska Statewide Arts & Culture Convergence will take place April 16–17, 2026, bringing together artists, culture bearers, and creative professionals from across the state. Organizers announced that registration is now open, with the conference focusing on collaboration, professional development, and statewide arts and culture initiatives. Several key deadlines are approaching ahead of the event. The Conference Access Stipend application is due by 11:59 p.m. AKST on Feb. 2, while submissions for the Spotlight Series close at 11:59 p.m. AKST on Feb. 13. Additional details, registration information, and application forms are available through the official conference website.
The Alaska Professional Fire Chiefs (APFC) welcomed the 34th Alaska Legislature as it convened its second session in Juneau. APFC expressed appreciation for the continued commitment of legislators and staff and said it looks forward to ongoing collaboration on issues affecting public safety and communities statewide. The organization noted the importance of working together to advance policies and priorities that benefit all Alaskans. Also Read: Alaska Legislature Passes Payday Loan Reform to Curb Predatory Lending
A new Track Tuesday feature is drawing attention to unusual patterns left by common wildlife in the snow, offering a closer look at winter movement across the landscape. The collection showcases distinctive ermine, hare, and moose tracks and sign, highlighting how familiar animals can leave unexpected and informative traces during snowy conditions. The images provide insight into behavior, gait, and habitat use during winter months. Also Read: Alaska Dall Sheep Population Study Tracks Herd Health And Movement All photographs featured in the series are credited to Mike Taras.
The Northern Forestry Dispatch Center has welcomed Hannah Phillipson as its newest Wildland Fire Dispatcher ahead of the 2026 fire season. Phillipson brings experience in leadership, customer service, and administrative support, along with a strong interest in public lands and land stewardship. Originally from Northern California, she has spent the past two years in Fairbanks. Her background includes multiple summer seasons working in Yosemite National Park, where she developed a long-term interest in fire operations and land management. NFDC officials noted that supporting fire crews holds personal significance for Phillipson, whose husband is a wildland firefighter. Outside of work, she…