Ring of Fire RMP
The Ring of Fire planning area encompasses the southern coastal zone of Alaska and includes approximately 1.3 million acres of land. The area has over 500 miles of salmon streams, three caribou herds, and incredible moose and bear habitat. The planning area contains the popular backcountry playground of the Knik River, heavily utilized by Anchorage and Matanuska Valley residents. Other popular areas, Haines and Skagway, offer wilderness oppertunities and contribute to the health of a tourism driven economy for remote villages.
Latest Developments
The Record of Decision (ROD) was issued March 21, 2008. Alaska Wilderness League is reviewing the ROD to determine how well the issues raised were addressed. The Ring of Fire Record of Decision and press release are available for review.
BLM will be conducting further public meetings during the 90 day public comment period to reconsider the Haines Block as a potential Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). Meeting dates are yet to be determined.
Summary of BLM’s Preferred Alternative
1. Nearly 100% of the planning area is open to leasable and locatable mineral development. All ANCSA 17(d)(1) withdrawals are scheduled to be revoked with the exception of two areas: Lake Carlanna Municipal Watershed (1,835 acres) and Halibut Cove Forest Study Area (120 acres).
2. The Knik River and the Haines Block will both be designated as a Special Recreaion Management Areas (SRMAs) but they will be open to mineral development. The existing Campbell Tract will remain an SRMA.
3. The Neacola Mountains will be designated as an ACEC, open to mineral development.
4. No Wild and Scenic Rivers have been found eligble and none will be nominated for designation.
5. No wilderness areas will be designated by this RMP.
6. Weak and discretionary Required Operating Procedures and Stipulations will be utilized, instead of strong and lasting protections, to prevent degredation to water, wildlife and habitat.
