§3147 Arctic Research Study

Summary

Three federal officials must start and finish a study of the Naval Arctic Research Laboratory (NARL) at Point Barrow, Alaska. The study must look at NARL’s mission, buildings, and management and review what work it has done for Arctic science. It must assess future uses in five areas, including making useful Arctic science for public services and protecting Native culture, studying effects of oil and gas activities, improving design and transportation for safer Arctic energy work, studying ice and spill responses, and helping shape a Federal Arctic policy that balances development with the needs of the environment and Native residents. After the study, the officials must recommend changes to NARL’s mission and management, say which Federal agency should run it, suggest ways to let State and private groups take part, and recommend the proper level of Federal funding for Arctic research. The officials must talk with the Navy, NOAA, NSF, the Smithsonian, the State of Alaska, local governments, Arctic research groups, and Native Village and Regional Corporations in affected areas. They must let the public see and comment on a draft report and include local community recommendations before finishing. The study and recommendations must be sent to Congress no later than one year after December 2, 1980. Until that report is sent, the President must keep NARL operating at the funding level provided for in fiscal year 1979.