Building Ports Without Whacking Whales: Alaska's Mammal-Safe Makeover
Published Date: 7/15/2025
Rule
Summary
The Port of Alaska is updating its cargo terminals in Anchorage over the next 5 years, and this work might accidentally affect some local marine mammals. New rules let the port do this safely while keeping an eye on the animals and their homes. These steps make sure the project moves forward without causing big harm to sea life.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Five‑Year LOA Authorization for Port Work
The rule lets the Don Young Port of Alaska receive Letters of Authorization (LOAs) to incidentally take marine mammals while doing the Cargo Terminals Replacement project in Anchorage, Alaska for a period of 5 years. This authorizes project activities that might affect marine mammals, subject to the conditions of those LOAs.
Required Methods to Limit Harm
The regulations prescribe permissible methods of taking and other measures to achieve the "least practicable adverse impact" on marine mammal species and their habitat during the Anchorage cargo‑terminal work. Project operators must follow those specified methods while carrying out construction activities.
Monitoring and Reporting Obligations
The rule requires monitoring and reporting of any incidental taking of marine mammals during the Port of Alaska Cargo Terminals Replacement project in Anchorage over the 5‑year period. Project operators must collect data and submit reports as specified by the regulations.
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Key Dates
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