|
Session: State Capitol, Room 427 Juneau, AK 99801-1182 Phone: (907) 465-4925 Fax: (907) 465-3517 Send E-Mail Interim: 112 Mill Bay Road Kodiak, AK 99615 Phone: (907) 486-4925 Fax: (907) 486-5264 PO Box 795 Craig, AK 99921-0795 Phone:(907) 826-3008 Fax: (907) 826-4020 Home Phone: (907) 826-2930 |
Senate Bill 12 Awaits Governor's Signature
For Immediate Release: March 3, 1999
Contact: Senator Jerry Mackie at (907) 465-4925.
Juneau -- A measure calling for increased stream protection was unanimously approved by the State House today and now goes to Governor Tony Knowles' Office to await signature. Previously the bill passed the Senate by a unanimous vote as well.
Senate Bill 12 increases protections in the Alaska Forest Practices Act for water quality and fish habitat in Alaska's coastal rivers. It also further defines the buffer zones that must be maintained in timber harvest areas.
"I'm really pleased that Senate Bill 12 was approved by the House and I'm confident that Governor Knowles will sign it into law," said bill sponsor Senator Jerry Mackie (R-Craig). "This measure guarantees protection for our salmon streams from Ketchikan to Kodiak. This bill has been a long time coming and is the result of many, many people who care about Alaska's waterways."
Senator Mackie explained that the committee working on recommendations for the measure was made up of members of timber, commercial fishing, and environmental groups, as well as State and federal agencies. "Everyone worked hard to come to consensus on these issues. The recommendations were endorsed by all of the participating interest groups as well as the Board of Forestry," said Sen. Mackie.
"I'm pleased that there was such solid support for the bill. I'm confident it will benefit fish habitat, our water quality, and all forest users," Sen. Mackie said.
Broadcasters note: Audio comments are available on the
Majority Actuality line, 1-800-478-6540
= Jerry Mackie, 51 K