Notice of Decision Denial of Release of State Interest, GS-5241

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued a formal decision denying a request to relinquish State surface‑estate interest in State Selection File GS‑5241 (approximately 160 acres near the Denali Highway, Matanuska‑Susitna Borough). The request was tied to a Dingell Act Native Vietnam‑Veteran allotment (AA‑97942). After a public notice period (Jan 27 – Feb 27 2026), agency reviews, and five public comments (four opposed, one supportive), DNR elected to retain both surface and subsurface rights (Alternative 2). Key points include: • Location: ~5 mi west of Denali Highway mile‑marker 76, Section 30, T‑21 S, R‑1 E, Fairbanks Meridian. • Stakeholders: DOT & PF, ADF&G, DPOR, DOG, DGGS, RADS, PAAD, Mining Section, local residents, Native Village of Cantwell. • Concerns raised: loss of public hunting/recreation access, potential split‑estate mining complications, un‑permitted trail that could be blocked, wildlife habitat impacts. • Agency positions: ADF&G and most agencies had no objection; RADS and Mining Section opposed due to management‑plan conflicts and mineral‑development risk. • Decision (8 Aug 2026): Maintain State selection; no relinquishment of surface or subsurface estate.