Juneau man named to Arctic commission

President Obama on June 14 announced his intent to appoint David Benton, of Juneau, to the U.S. Arctic Research Commission.

Benton, a self-employed marine resource consultant, was deputy commissioner of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game from 1994 to 2000. He is known for his long involvement in Alaska commercial fishing issues.

U.S. Sen. Mark Begich, D-Alaska, recommended Benton to the White House. Established in 1984, the Arctic Research Commission works to develop and recommend an integrated national Arctic research policy and facilitate cooperation among U.S. and foreign governments.

Benton fills a seat for private industry previously held by Michele Longo Eder of Newport, Ore., Begich’s office said. Terms are for four years.Fran Ulmer, formerly lieutenant governor, chairs the seven-member commission, which has Anchorage and Washington, D.C., offices.

—Wesley Loy