Nenana Totchaket Road Project Number: NSHWY00657

Listening Session Common Topics

The Departments of Transportation and Public Facilities, Fish and Game, and Natural Resources thank the Nenana residents who have participated in the public process for the Nenana-Totchaket projects so far—either attending the community listening session on December 12, 2022, providing comments during stakeholder meetings, or participating at previous public meetings. Many of the questions and concerns brought forward from the community are answered below, and some are addressed through links to State of Alaska agency websites or partner organizations. We hope this information will be helpful and further the dialog on these important issues. Residents may submit additional questions to the relevant employees listed on the State of Alaska contact sheet.

DOTPF
Is this project impacting native allotments or private property?

No, both the necessary road repairs to the existing road and the road extension are on State land.

DOTPF
Did DOT&PF start construction?

In November and December there was no repair work performed on the roadway. Preliminary work activities were focused in the materials sites. Currently we are working closely with the contractor, through the Construction Manager General Contractor contracting method, to make sure we continue to dialogue with the community of Nenana as we begin repair work on to the existing road. Repair work to the existing road will begin in January of 2023 to avoid weight restriction impacts. https://dot.alaska.gov/mscve/pages/weightrestrictions.shtml

DOTPF
What is the purpose of the Nenana-Totchaket road project?

The purpose of the existing 12-mile Totchalket Road Project (Phase One) is to make necessary repairs to the road. This work includes re-leveling in areas that have experienced settling, flattening of embankment side slopes, resurfacing, and clearing of vegetation. We are also proposing to replace or rehabilitate three bridge crossings (East Middle, West Middle, and Little Nenana Rivers), construct an armored high water crossing in a seasonal flood area, and improve drainage through culvert replacement and reestablish ditches. Existing turnouts will also be improved, as well as the construction of new turnouts, as needed to support construction. If you are interested in connecting with the team about ideas for the existing road, please email DOT.Nenanatotchaketproject@alaska.gov.

The proposed full project for the Nenana-Totchaket Road is funded through reappropriated funds that the legislature and Governor Dunleavy identified as a priority to support additional food security to Alaskans by improving access to agricultural development, as well as increased access for substance lifestyles in the region. The new road beyond the 12-mile existing road (Phase Two) is to support the identified development needs as planned by the community of Nenana and the State of Alaska. 

DOTPF
Why is this project broken into Phase 1 and Phase 2?

The Nenana-Totchaket project became a phased approach after listening to the community of Nenana. Phase one work focuses on repairing the existing road and phase two focuses on building a new road with the community.

DOTPF
Is this the Road to Nome?

The Totchaket Road is not part of the Western Alaska Access Planning Study from January 2010 which evaluated alternative corridors connecting the existing road system in the Fairbanks area to Nome and the Seward Peninsula. The study recommended the Yukon River Corridor as the road to Nome, which is an approximately 550-mile route from Manley Hot Springs to the Nome-Council Highway and does not include the Totchaket Road. https://dot.alaska.gov/nreg/westernaccess/

DOTPF
Why does the road project end at the Kantishna?

Ending the project at the Kantishna River with the proposed road extension supports the purpose and need identified through the reappropriated funds from the legislature and Governor Dunleavy, which is to improve potential public access to recreation, substance lifestyle and other developments identified by planning efforts with the community.

DOTPF
Where is this project in the STIP?

This project is fully State funded and does not appear in the 2020-2023 STIP. The STIP covers all system improvements for which partial or full federal funding is approved and that are expected to take place during the four-year duration of the STIP. This project is in the budget here: https://omb.alaska.gov/ombfiles/23_budget/Trans/Enacted/2022proj64400.pdf

DOTPF
Is there any future funding that will be coming for additional projects within Nenana?

Yes, there are future funding opportunities for the community of Nenana. We would like to listen to what projects the community is interested in and follow the communities lead on other road improvement projects. There is a proposed FHWA funded project to Reconstruct the Parks Highway from Milepost 319 to 325 and replace Little Goldstream Creek Bridge at Milepost 315 after 2023 to improve safety and enhance commercial and recreational function of this Interstate route.

DOTPF
Who will maintain the road?

We are very interested in a maintenance agreement with the community of Nenana and welcome those discussions. If there is no established maintenance agreement, the State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities will maintain the road unless we can have a maintenance agreement with the community.

DOTPF
How will drainage be improved by this project?

We welcome the communities input to drainage issues and have planned to work the existing drainage structures at Little Nenana River, East Middle River, and West Middle River are in poor condition, narrow, and potentially inhibit flow and fish passage during high water events.  DOT&PF proposes to reconstruct each bridge and relocate abutments outside of the river channels at each location. At 5-mile Slough, the road often floods and washes out during spring melt because the culverts are insufficient to handle the floodwater. Several large culverts will be installed at this location and will be designed to handle seasonal floodwaters, while also promoting the passage of fish without entrapping them on one side of the road.

DOTPF
Is the wetlands permit comment period closed?

The comment period for the Corps permit has ended, but we’re committed to continued discussions and feedback beyond this specific permit schedule. We welcome comments to be sent email DOT.Nenanatotchaketproject@alaska.gov for further discussions with the project team.

DOTPF
When did planning for this project begin?

There have been many different discussions about these projects for many years, and here are some of the DOT&PF project timeline plans:

• 1984 Road right-of-way was applied for and granted by DNR to the City of Nenana.
• 2006 Long-Range Community Master Plan included thepromotion of improved access to the Nenana Totchaket Area to “promote continued development of natural gas in the Nenana Basin and Minto Flats,” “Promote development of large-scale agricultural projects in Nenana,” “Collaborate with Toghotthele Corporation in promoting the agricultural potential of the land around Nenana for possible large scale projects,”  and to “Collaborate with the State of Alaska to foster progress on existing plans for agricultural development within the Totchaket agricultural area.”
• 2009 Construction of the existing 12 mile Totchaket Road and associated bridges was a collaborative effort between multiple local stakeholders, including the City of Nenana, the Nenana Native Association (Tribe), the Toghotthele Corporation, and Doyon. The Nenana River Bridge was completed in 2020 through a closer partnership between the Tribe and City, opening up public access the Totchaket area year round.
• 2014 Alaska Division Natural Resources Yukon Tanana Area Plan designated 148,502 acres of the Kantishna Region K-32 for agricultural development and forestry activities.
• 2021 Funding for the current proposed project to improve the existing Totchaket Road and construct new road extension to the Kantishna River, was initiated.

DNR
The Alaska Mapper will be helpful for community members with specific questions about land ownership in the region: https://mapper.dnr.alaska.gov/map#map=4/-16632245.12/8816587.34/0

DNR
What farming board opportunities are there and how do I find upcoming meetings?

The Fairbanks Soil and Water Conservation District is the relevant organization for getting involved and receiving recommendations. District Coordinator Joni Scharfenberg is planning to share additional information and meeting dates with the Nenana community as a follow up to the December 12, 2022 community listening session. https://www.fairbankssoilwater.org/

DNR
Can we increase the Nenana Agriculture working day event to meet for frequently?

Yes! DNR’s Division of Agriculture and other State agencies would be delighted to work with the community on opportunities for additional farm demonstration days, educational events, and information sharing. The next Nenana Agricultural Education Day is tentatively scheduled for June 2, 2023.

DNR
What are the current and future economical natural resource development plans for this area?

DNR’s mission is to develop, conserve, and maximize the use of Alaska's natural resources consistent with the public interest. We will continue to evaluate responsible natural resource development opportunities across Alaska, including the Nenana-Totchaket area.

• The Yukon Tanana Area Plan, which was developed by multiple State agencies with public input and adopted in 2014, outlines the kind of development that could be considered in the region.
• The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection has published a summary of proposed harvests in the Five-Year Schedule of Timber Sales, which includes two Nenana-area sales potentially in 2026. The timber sales will also require a Forest Land Use Plan and Best Interest Finding – both which must go through a robust process that includes public input. Learn more about timber sales and planning on State land here: https://forestry.alaska.gov/timber/
• More information about timber in the Tanana Valley State Forest is available from the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development: https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/dcra/ForestProducts/SourcesofTimberSupply/TananaValleyStateForest.aspx
• The Alaska Mapper will be helpful for community members with specific questions about other land ownership in the region: https://mapper.dnr.alaska.gov/map#map=4/-16632245.12/8816587.34/0

DNR
How is this project impacting local agriculture and farming?

More farmers in the area will provide additional resources such as equipment sharing. Farms will provide opportunities for summer/fall employment. There will be opportunities for a local Nenana Farmers Market. Some of the apparent bid winners and over-the-counter purchasers for the Nenana-Totchaket Agricultural Project Phase 1A parcels are Nenana residents and current famers.

DNR
What are Alaska’s regulations on pesticides use?

• The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation regulates pesticides use and has some of the strictest standards in the U.S.
• Pesticide Control Program (alaska.gov)
• Certified Pesticide Applicators (alaska.gov)

DNR
With the agriculture project, what can people grow? Will you encourage biodiversity farming?

It is up to the farmers what agricultural purpose they develop the land for. The State is not encouraging one type of crop, livestock, or agricultural use over any other. Specialists with the Alaska Division of Agriculture are hosting weekly meetings with farmers to discuss the Nenana-Totchaket Agricultural Project, and these topics often come up like in a recent conversation: NenTot Tuesday 12/6/22: Crop Varieties and Suitability

The Alaska Division of Agriculture manages the Alaska Plant Materials Center (PMC) and is a resource for farmers. The 270-acre PMC near Palmer was established by the Alaska Legislature in 1972 to promote the state's agricultural industry. Grains, grasses, fruits, potatoes, shrubs, and trees are evaluated for the potential use in Alaska climates. Small quantities of these plant materials are released to Alaskan commercial growers who then increase the production of these materials and make them available for food, ornamental, and conservation purposes.

UAF’s Cooperative Extension Service, Tanana District Extension Office also offers assistance in agriculture and horticulture: https://www.uaf.edu/ces/districts/tanana/

DNR
Who has preference in agricultural land sales?

• The Nenana-Totchaket Agricultural Project Phase 1A offering was sold through sealed-bid auction (auction #494) and through over-the-counter sales. Currently DNR plans to continue future sales through this method.
• Alaska residents do not have preference in agricultural land sales. Residency requirements for State land sales vary based on the type of land being sold, and the method of sale. Detailed information about residency requirements can be found at: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landsales/info/
• When agricultural land is sold, an adjacent land owner or lessee may qualify for a first option to purchase that land. In order to qualify, the applicant must be an Alaska resident, and may be required to have not less than 50 percent of the potentially tillable land cleared or otherwise devoted to agricultural purposes. Relevant laws:
• AS 38.05.069. Preference to persons for agricultural purposes
• 11 AAC 67.167. Agricultural Preference Right
• DNR intends to phase offerings in the Nenana-Totchaket Agricultural Project over multiple years. This will allow for more opportunity to purchase parcels, and for the area to develop over time. This is a different approach from earlier agricultural land project sales, when all of the land was offered at once and created competition.
• More information about State land sales may be found here: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landsales/

In State agricultural land auctions there is no limit to the number of parcels an eligible bidder can purchase. Purchasers are not required to be an Alaska resident and businesses can participate in the auction. When agricultural land is sold, it is subject to a perpetual agricultural covenant. This covenant provides that the land may only be used for agricultural purposes, and places restrictions on future subdivision of the parcel. Other activities may occur on an agricultural parcel if they are incidental to and consistent with the primary use of the land for agricultural purposes.

DNR
Is there a map of what land parcels have been sold?

Yes. All of the parcels that were offered in the Nenana-Totchaket Phase 1A sale can be viewed on page 36 of the land sales brochure: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landsales/brochure/file/51/brochure

DNR
What additional soil studies are planned for the agriculture sales?

• Existing soil data was updated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in 2022, covering the Nenana-Totchaket Agricultural Project’s Phase 1 area. Phase 1 is anticipated to provide a land base for agricultural sales at auctions for the next 10 years.
• Updated soil survey work is expected to be contracted through the NRCS prior to the opening of additional phases (potentially in 2030).
• Further questions can be answered by soil scientists at the USDA
• Information on Phase 1 can be found here: Web Soil Survey - Home (usda.gov)

DNR
How was the land chosen to be sold that was sold?

• The Nenana-Totchaket (NenTot) region has been identified for agricultural development since the late 1970's. The Alaska Agricultural Action Council (AAAC) in 1982 reported "Nenana-Totchaket will play a particularly important role in the future of Alaskan agriculture" noting its access to the Parks Highway & Alaska Railroad; lower elevation than Delta; and not conflicting with other resource development.
• The area was classified Agricultural Land through the 1985 Tanana Basin Area Plan, and that classification was carried forward through the 2014 Yukon Tanana Area Plan.
• DNR selected the area for Phase 1A due to it’s location relative to the constructed Totchaket Road and the constructed road to the gas exploration pad.

DNR
Who can have access to the lumber?

• Alaskans can harvest firewood for personal use through a Division of Forestry and Fire Protection permit to cut trees on State lands: http://forestry.alaska.gov/wood/firewood
• The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection may offer timber sales on State lands as outlined in the Five-Year Schedule of Timber Sales. Any timber sale would also require an approved Forest Land Use Plan and Best Interest Finding – both which must go through a robust process that includes public input. Learn more about timber sales and planning on State land here: https://forestry.alaska.gov/timber/

DNR
How will the timbers being cut be monitored?

• The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection manages State Forests and sustainable timber harvesting – meaning that the amount of trees cut down on State land each year can’t be more than regrowth from previous harvests.
• The Division is responsible for making sure that the Alaska Forest Resources and Practices Act (FRPA, AS 41.17) is implemented and enforced. FRPA governs how timber access, harvesting, and reforestation occur on State, private, and municipal land. The Act ensures that both the timber and commercial fishing industries can continue to provide long-term jobs.
• The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection sells timber to private businesses through timber sale contracts. State Foresters lay out the timber sale units, administer the contracts, and monitor the loggers regularly to ensure compliance with the contract.

DNR
I am worried about pollutions running off onto my land from Agriculture projects, how do you manage this concern?

• Any generator of animal manure must manage it in a way that does not create polluting runoff, attract wild animals, or cause a nuisance odor to neighboring properties.
• The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for manure management that causes potential harm to human health or the environment. Learn more about the related statues and regulations: https://dec.alaska.gov/eh/solid-waste/how-do-i-dispose-of/manure-management/

DNR
How does DNR work with the community with topics like easements?

DNR welcomed public comments during the initial scoping process. Based on community feedback, a trapping line trail easement was increased from 100 feet to 200 feet.

Fish and Game
How will you monitor people who do not follow the hunting regulations?

The Department of Public Safety Wildlife Troopers enforce hunting and fishing regulations. The Department of Fish and Game will continue to monitor hunter harvest and wildlife populations in the area.

Fish and Game
How can community members have priority to hunting?

Under Alaska state law, subsistence users are defined as residents of the state of Alaska. Therefore, all residents regardless of where they reside are treated equally when considering hunting and fishing regulations.

Fish and Game
What are the hunting regulations?

The Nenana-Totchaket area is in Game Management Unit 20C. For moose hunting in GMU 20C during the 2022-23 season youth hunters can take one bull moose from August 25–August 31 and all other hunters can take one bull moose from September 1–September 25. These regulations and all other hunting regulation in Alaska can be found online (http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=hunting.main) or in paper version from vendors that sell hunting and fishing licenses.

Fish and Game
What is the process for changing hunting regulations?

Hunting regulations can only be changed by the Board of Game. Advisory Committees “advise” the Board of Game on local hunting and trapping issues. Nenana shares an Advisory Committee with the village of Minto, they meet a couple of times each winter, this would be a great place for the public to discuss potential regulation changes. The Board of Game will also accept proposals from any member of the public as well. The next Board of Game meeting for Interior Alaska will occur in Spring 2024 and proposals for that meeting are due May 1, 2023. You can learn more about the Board of Game process at http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=gameboard.main.

Fish and Game
Are there changing migration patterns for all animals in the area?

Alaska Fish and Game is not aware of changing migration patterns of animals in the Nenana-Totchaket area, but we are monitoring the area.

Fish and Game
What are animal trends across the state for the past few years? Are there trends?

We have documented that Dall sheep numbers are lower than normal. When focusing more on the Nenana-Totchaket area (Game Management Unit 20C) moose appear to be stable and potentially increasing in response to some large fires the past 15 years.

Fish and Game
How does fish and game regulate the amount of hunters in a region?

The Department of Fish and Game does not regulate the amount of hunters in this area. The Board of Game has the authority to adjust regulations to limit hunting by method of transportation (ATV, boat, airplane, etc.) or gear type (firearm, archery, muzzleloader) when necessary. The Board of Game follows a public process and anyone can submit proposals directly to the Board of Game or they can go through a local Advisory Committee process. To learn more about this process go to: http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=gameboard.main.

Extra
How will DNR, the construction contractor and DOT&PF mitigate invasive species?

DOT&PF Statewide Environmental Management Office is responsible for the development and implementation of environmental policy and procedures, including invasive species: https://dot.alaska.gov/stwddes/desenviron/resources/species.shtml and we work closely with the contractor during construction and DNR’s Plant Materials Center has developed a strategic plan to address the threat of invasive weeds and agricultural pests to Alaskan agriculture and natural resources through the Invasive Plants Program.