Diesel Fuel Spills in Gambell After Pipeline Fails
An estimated 2,500 gallons of diesel fuel spilled in late June, but the problem was only discovered last week. It’s the second fuel spill on St. Lawrence Island this year.
Environmental Concerns Are Cited in Opposition to Mining Projects Like ‘Rivers of Gold’
Norton Sound Economic Development Corporation (NSEDC), Kawerak Inc., and Bering Straits Native Corporation (BSNC) released a joint statement opposing large placer mining in Safety Sound, the Bonanza Channel, and Golovnin Lagoon. ADEC is waiting on more information and data from the mining company, and until that is received, Rivers of Gold is not allowed to operate or discharge in U.S. waters.
E. Coli Outbreak Comes to Alaska: First Confirmed Cases Are Nome Inmates
State-wide, all eight confirmed cases of E. coli infection are inmates currently residing in Nome’s Anvil Mountain Correctional Center (AMCC). As of Wednesday, no additional E. coli cases have been reported by AMCC or elsewhere in Alaska. The Center for Disease Control recommends Alaskans avoid eating any romaine lettuce unless you can verify it is not from Yuma, Arizona.
Cleanup Continues for Fuel Spills in Savoonga and Nome
An unknown volume of diesel fuel has spilled in Savoonga, and Nome has seen several leaks in recent weeks. Some of these spills are likely connected to extra snow this winter.
Gambell Sewer Main Remains Unfixed After Months; Bypass in Place
A sewer main in Gambell that was damaged in September remains unfixed heading into winter. A bypass is in place and can be winterized if immediate repair of the line is impossible. Permanent repairs may have to wait until May 2018 or even later.
Boil Water Notice Issued For Emmonak; Water Pressure Loss Sparked Contaminant Concern
As of Tuesday, a boil water notice was issued for Emmonak and will remain in effect until the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation confirms there are no contaminants in the water system due to the loss of water pressure.
For Now, Nome’s Junked Cars to Remain Where They Lay, City Council Decides
During last night’s City Council meeting, the one piece of unfinished business on the agenda was an ordinance to prohibit storing junk motor vehicles in any zoning district except for the Industrial District. After two separate votes to amend the ordinance, the motion was ultimately tabled until September 25th.
City Employee Contracts, ADEC Loans on Nome City Council’s Agenda
Nome’s City Manager, Tom Moran, could be employed with the City for another one-year term, if a resolution is passed during tonight’s regular City Council meeting. Also, Bryant Hammond could become City Treasurer while retaining his duties as City Clerk.