State weighs changes to dock permit regulations

JOEL DAVIDSON/Frontiersman reporter

MAT-SU - In an effort to preserve salmon habitat in the Mat-Su Borough, the state Department of Natural Resources is taking public comment on a proposal to issue a permit to the general public for the construction and use of docks on lakes within the borough. The comment period ends Jan. 24.

According to state biologist Jeff Davis, dock permits were previously issued through the Department of Fish and Game. DNR now issues the permits for docks in salmon habitats.

The new proposal is similar to the current regulation, in which people are able to build docks using a general public permit, without having to get individual permits, so long as they build in accordance with state specifications.

Davis, who also serves as the DNR's Mat-Su area manager for the office of habitat, management and permitting, said the public comment and review process is an effort to make sure the permit regulations are consistent with Alaska Coastal Management Program guidelines.

"We've opened this up for public comment," Davis said, "and we want people to know that they do need permits to build docks where salmon may be."

DNR keeps a catalogue of all lakes with salmon in them. Davis said people may contact DNR to inquire about whether certain lakes contain salmon. He said the public comments will likely influence what changes, if any, are made to the current regulations.

Davis pointed out that dock permits go back as far as statehood, but said there are probably a number of docks in the Mat-Su that would not comply with state standards.

Docks that typically pose a threat to salmon habitat usually have toxic paint or wood preservatives. Others threats involve excavation of the bank or removal of vegetation. Docks that do not allow light to get through can also kill off important plants and vegetation.

Those interested in commenting must call 745-7363 by Monday, Jan. 24.

Contact Joel Davidson at joel.davidson@frontiersman.com.