What is the Ambler Access Project (AAP)?
The Ambler Mining District is a potential source of copper, zinc and other metals. AAP is a proposed 211-mile industrial-access road that would connect the Ambler Mining District in Northwest Alaska and the Dalton Highway at milepost 161. The district is near the villages of Ambler, Kobuk and Shungnak, and currently lacks the transportation infrastructure necessary for the development of any potential mineral resources.
Does NANA support the AAP?
NANA’s values require us to diligently evaluate whether the benefits of AAP would outweigh any impacts to our lands, subsistence resources and Iñupiat way of life. Before considering a position on AAP, NANA is currently assessing all the information learned from a variety of sources including the administrative review process regarding the potential project led by BLM.
AAP would be a significant undertaking, and communities across our region have unique perspectives about what the project would mean to them. NANA has urged federal, state and local government stakeholders to maintain a transparent public process, with meaningful Tribal and ANC consultation.
Additionally, we encourage shareholders to participate in the BLM and the AIDEA ongoing visits to the region to discuss AAP. It is important that shareholder voices are at the table and heard during this process.
Why is NANA considering a position on AAP?
NANA is committed to protecting and advancing the Iñupiat way of life, which requires carefully balancing traditional subsistence activities with responsible economic development. Undeveloped resources in our region could maintain a sustainable economy, improve regional connectivity and lower the cost of living for generations into the future.
Our diligent review of the proposed project, which will include careful evaluation of the draft and final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) from BLM, is aimed at evaluating whether the benefits of AAP would outweigh any impacts to the lands, waters, plants and animals that are at the heart of our subsistence way of life.
Is NANA participating in the BLM or AIDEA studies?
NANA issued AIDEA a three-year land use permit, which expires at the end of 2024, to allow for further evaluation of the proposed project. The permit allows AIDEA to be on NANA lands for a limited period and is not a right of way or an easement. NANA approved the permit because the results of AIDEA’s study will provide helpful information that will advance the evaluation of AAP.
Additionally, NANA has been participating in regional discussions held by BLM regarding the proposed project. We look forward to reviewing BLM’s SEIS in draft and final form, as it will provide crucial information to aid in our assessment of the project and proposed roadway.
What is the next step in NANA’s evaluation of the project?
NANA anticipates the completion of the SEIS by BLM on or about Dec. 31, 2023, and we will review the document in draft (Sept. 30, 2023) and final forms. BLM publishes documents and opportunities for public comment on its website, www.blm.gov. NANA does not endorse any position or information provided on third-party websites.
As NANA evaluates its position on the AAP, where can I find the latest information?
The best way to stay up to date on the latest information regarding NANA’s evaluation of AAP is by visiting this page on nana.com.
Shareholders are encouraged to participate in the BLM and AIDEA’s ongoing visits with in-region communities and Tribal Councils to discuss the AAP directly with those agencies and to continue learning about these important proposed projects. NANA appreciates hearing from all shareholders on this matter.
Where can I learn more about the Ambler Access Project?
More information can be found at the links below. NANA does not endorse any position or information provided on these third-party sites.
Bureau of Land Management: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/57323/510
Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority: https://ambleraccess.org/
Contact us: news@nana.com
