Alaska looks for panelists to discuss new roads in forest

JUNEAU, Alaska – Alaska Gov. Bill Walker’s administration is looking for Alaska residents to serve on an advisory committee that will discuss the Alaska shape the future of the Tongass National Forest.

KTOO-FM reports the U.S. Forest Service announced last month that it would be considering building new roads in the wilder parts of the Alaska forest.

The committee will discuss which areas in the Tongass, the largest national forest in the United States, could have new roads. Alaska’s congressional delegation has said having enough access to timber and mining opportunities is a priority.

The governor’s office says it’s seeking applications for a “diverse” panel of up to 13 people, including Alaska Native regional corporations and tribes, local governments and environmental groups as well as interests from tourism, mining, energy, timber and fishing.

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Information from: KTOO-FM, http://www.ktoo.org