BLM sets NPR-A scoping meetings

The Bureau of Land Management is holding six public scoping meetings in October to amend its 1998 integrated activity plan covering 4.6 million acres in the northeast portion of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska.

The meetings began in Anchorage Oct. 7, and include: Fairbanks, Oct. 8; Nuiqsut, Oct. 14; Barrow, Oct. 16; Atqasuk, Oct. 27; and Anaktuvuk Pass, Oct. 28.

All meetings begin with an open house at 6 p.m., followed by a presentation at 7 p.m.

BLM said issues raised at the meetings regarding possible environmental and social effects of different management alternatives for the federal lands within the planning area will be evaluated in an environmental impact statement being prepared by ENSR International under contract to the agency.

Public scoping comments will be accepted through Oct. 31 and should be sent to: NE NPR-A Amendment Planning Team, Bureau of Land Management, Alaska State Office (930), 222 W. 7th Ave., Anchorage AK 99513-7599.