Key Performance Indicators

Department of Natural Resources

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Mission

Develop, conserve and maximize the use of Alaska's natural resources consistent with the public interest. Alaska Constitution Article 8; AS 03, AS 27, AS 38, AS 40, AS 41, AS 43.90, AS 14.30.740

Key Performance Indicators

• Target: Publish reports or maps providing improved assessment of geologic hazards that could pose significant risks to public safety or infrastructure.

• Target: Contain more than 90% of wildland fires at less than 10 acres within Alaska's heavily populated areas (Critical and Full Management Options) in accordance with the Alaska Interagency Wildland Fire Management Plan.

• Target: Provide wildland fire training to agency personnel, fire departments, and urban and rural communities.

• Target: Fill the firefighting needs for the average fire season with Alaskan firefighters.

• Target: Provide safe, cost effective wildland fire protection services to the State of Alaska.

• Target: Reduce the impact of wildfire smoke on the public by working to mitigate smoke concerns from fires near communities.

• Target: Minimize lost work days for firefighters.

• Target: Process a minimum of 90% of new land use applications received.

• Target: Process a minimum of 90% of new water use applications received.

• Target: Receive lands essential to the state's economic development and for maximum public benefit, including lands rich in natural resources, selected for municipal entitlements, necessary for settlement, and to eliminate federal inholdings.

• Target: Provide accessible, clean, safe, and well-maintained park facilities for Alaska residents and visitors by reducing deferred maintenance needs in park units.

• Target: Collect fees necessary to reach authorized program receipt funds in the Parks Management and Access budget; annually evaluate and if necessary, raise fees in order to reach program receipts authorization.

• Target: Publish airborne geophysical survey data for Alaska's minerals-interest lands.

• Target: Publish reports on energy-related geology that assist the energy industry and state agencies in exploring for and managing energy resources on state-interest lands.

Performance Detail

Target #1: Offer 200 parcels of land at auction. Analysis of results and challenges: The annual sealed bid auctions were held July 10, 2019, October 30, 2019 and June 24, 2020 offering a combined total of 355 parcels. Auction parcels are a mix of new subdivision lots and reoffers of previous sales. NOTE: In calendar year 2013, the annual auction was moved from June, 2013 to July, 2014, which accounts for the fact that there was no auction in 2013. In addition, hundreds of "lost parcels" were found and offered in FY2012 and a special discount auction was offered in FY2014, accounting for the high parcel numbers in FY2012 and FY2014.

Target #2: Facilitate and improve regulatory and lease compliance monitoring of AS.38.35 pipelines. Methodology: Commencing 2019, decrease is a result of metrics consolidation. Compliance & Oversight Monitoring Actions of AS 38.35 Pipelines Fiscal Year YTD Total FY 2020 155 +8.39% FY 2019 143 -28.5% FY 2018 200 -28.83% FY 2017 281 -13.54% Analysis of results and challenges: The Pipeline Section (SPS) applied a systematic approach to lease compliance inspections based on lessee annual reports and proposed work plans. Each field inspection is conducted according to a project mission developed around lease stipulations and the lessee's work plans, or other lease related actions such as amendments, releases of interest, and renewals. SPS implemented a Geospatial Information System (GIS) platform for gathering field data and pipeline system data while conducting inspections. This GIS platform serves as a database by which pipeline, environmental, health, and safety data is aggregated and used to communicate concerns and progress to the lessees via inspection reports.

Target #3: Coordinate the review, permitting, and monitoring of natural and renewable resource development, transportation, and other specialized projects consistent with the missions of the department and participating state agencies. Methodology: Graph illustrates the number and types of projects OPMP Coordinators manage. OPMP Coordinated Projects Fiscal Year Mining Oil and Gas Transportation Renewable YTD Total FY 2020 12 4 3 1 20 FY 2019 11 5 2 0 18 FY 2018 11 6 1 0 18 FY 2017 12 6 1 1 20 FY 2016 14 7 1 1 23 Analysis of results and challenges: OPMP's large project coordination core service is a networked program that builds on the combined regulatory authorities and expertise of state, federal, and local government agencies. OPMP's coordination service provides a consistent and predictable permitting process for large, complex natural resource development projects while reducing potential conflicts and redundancies for regulatory agencies. The number and types of projects coordinated by OPMP annually indicates relative demand for the program; it also provides OPMP insight into industry and market trends in Alaska. For example, the decrease in coordinated mining projects from FY2016 to FY2018 represents a slowdown in mineral exploration activities statewide, as well as OPMP's completion of coordinated reviews for two proposed mines in the Transboundary Region of British Columbia. OPMP anticipates a modest upward trend in the number of coordinated mining projects in the near-term (3-5 years) due to positive economic trends within the industry and growing interest in critical and strategic minerals sourced domestically. The number of coordinated oil and gas projects are expected to remain relatively flat in the near-term due to depressed oil prices globally and optimization efforts in Alaska's oil and gas industry. OPMP's principle challenge for providing permit coordination is maintaining sufficient organizational capacity (i.e. staffing, budget resources, etc.) to adjust to fluctuations in coordinated project workloads. Such fluctuations are often driven by factors outside OPMP's control (i.e. economic conditions, regulatory changes, commodity process, investment trends, etc.), but are an important metric used to gauge relative demand for large project coordination services. Related links:    • See DNR Office of Project Management and Permitting

Target #4: Provide stable or increasing economic benefit from the use of trees and forests on state land by selling state timber to twenty or more Alaskan businesses. Methodology: Division of Forestry Alaskan Firms Purchasing State Timber Sales Fiscal Year YTD Total FY 2020 24 FY 2019 25 FY 2018 21 FY 2017 21 FY 2016 27 FY 2015 26 FY 2014 34 FY 2013 35 FY 2012 40 FY 2011 42 FY 2010 51 Analysis of results and challenges: The number of purchasers of state timber sales has stabilized after a sharp drop (28%) during the 2010 to 2014 time period and has stabilized for the past six years in the mid-twenties. In Southeast the number of firms purchasing state timber sales has declined dramatically due to a number or reasons, but the primary factor is the lack of a consistent federal timber supply from the Tongass National Forest (TNF). The Division has been engaged in number of ways to help improve this situation, including administering two Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) timber sale projects on the TNF in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. State timber supply continues to be critical to the remaining purchasers in southeast, particularly the Viking Lumber mill in Klawock, the last remaining mid-sized mill. Commercial sawlog demand in Southcentral has fallen dramatically due to the spruce bark beetle outbreak and the amount of wood available to mills from private landowners. In the Interior, demand remains steady, however, the commercial firewood market has shrunk and consequently the number of firms participating has decreased. There were 31 new timber sales sold to 24 Alaskan firms in FY2020 and there are currently 41 firms with active timber sale contracts throughout Alaska, mostly smaller fuel wood sellers in the interior.

Target #5: Increase awareness of Alaska Grown products and market options, and expand gross farm product sales. Methodology: Reported on an annual basis from Alaska Agricultural Statistics. Monetary Value of Agriculture Products Sold (in millions) Year YTD Total 2019 $38.4 2018 $37.9 2017 $34.8 2016 $33.9 2015 $33.8 2014 $31.9 2013 $30.0 2012 $30.8 2011 $31.7 2010 $30.8 2009 $31.9 2008 $32.4 Analysis of results and challenges: The data provided comes from surveys conducted throughout the year by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services. Core services continue to demonstrate growth in monetary value of Alaska agricultural products sold.

Target #6: Operate the Forest Resources and Practices Act program to achieve 100% implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs). Methodology: BMP implementation compliance is measured as the percentage of BMPs rated four or higher out of a perfect score of five in field inspections of forest operations. *FRPA data compiled based on Calendar Year. Forest Resources & Practices Act Program: Displayed as the Rating of Best Management Practices Implementation by Region per Year Year Coastal Southcentral Interior 2019 90% 93% 94% 2018 93% 93% 85% 2017 97% 93% 100% 2016 93% 99% 99% 2015 97% 97% 94% 2014 96% 93% 85% 2013 96% 98% 80% 2012 98% 98% 92% 2011 100% 90% 91% 2010 95% 100% 93% 2009 92% 100% 70% 2008 95% 98% 92% Analysis of results and challenges: BMPs are designed to prevent adverse impacts from forest operations on fish habitat and water quality, and to ensure prompt reforestation following harvest. Compliance with the BMPs is high statewide. Decreased scores in the interior reflect record rains in the summer of 2018 which damaged forest roads in the Tanana Valley State Forest. The lower score in southcentral for 2017 is confined to BMPs addressing road construction and road maintenance. The division uses compliance monitoring results to identify training needs. Training emphasizes specific BMPs with relatively low ratings and targets operators with a history of compliance issues. BMPs for maintenance of active and inactive roads are a current training focus.

Target #7: Promote safer boating behaviors on Alaska's waters. Methodology: Average percentage of adult life jacket wear rate 2015-2019 Adult Life Jacket Wear Rate Percentages Powerboats National vs. Alaska (2015-2019) Year National Average Alaska Average YTD Total Average 6.5 13.5 20 Analysis of results and challenges: Results of observational life jacket wear rate studies conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard shows adult life jacket wear is now higher in Alaska than it is nationally.

Target #1: Publish reports or maps providing improved assessment of geologic hazards that could pose significant risks to public safety or infrastructure. Methodology: Number of peer-reviewed reports or maps published during the fiscal year assessing geologic hazards that pose significant risks to public safety. Published New Reports on Geologic Hazards that Pose Significant Risks to Public Safety Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Total Target FY 2021 34 FY 2020 40 34 FY 2019 31 18 FY 2018 32 12 FY 2017 16 12 FY 2016 18 16 FY 2015 18 12 FY 2014 12 16 FY 2013 13 18 FY 2012 12 12 FY 2011 9 5 FY 2010 4 4 Analysis of results and challenges: Preventing economic losses and threats to public safety from natural disasters is closely tied to our understanding of the risks presented by Alaska's complex geology. Mitigation of these risks can only come about through detailed geologic investigations that increase our understanding of natural hazards, and timely distribution of that information. Growing population and increasing development in Alaska create significant demands for acquiring new geologic data and distributing it in a timely fashion. In FY2020, DGGS authors published 40 new reports and peer-reviewed publications on geologic hazards. Key publications of the Engineering Geology Section include final updated tsunami inundation maps for Homer and Seldovia; regional tsunami assessments for False Pass, Perryville, Shemya, and selected communities of the Kenai Peninsula, Kodiak Island, Bristol Bay, Pribilof Islands, and Southeast Alaska; lidar surveys in the western Susitna basin and Chilkat Ridge near Haines; photogrammetry data for the Yukon River crossing, Valdez Glacier ice-dammed lake, Barter Island, and a series of focus areas in and near Anchorage that were affected by the 2018 Anchorage earthquake; and information circulars about a potential earthquake early warning system for Alaska and the science and hazards of naturally occurring holes in ice. Other published engineering-geologic studies on the geomorphology and geologic hazards of the Parks Highway-Minto Flats-Dalton Highway infrastructure corridor and potentially active faults in the area of the Yukon River bridge contributed to the understanding of geologic hazards in Alaska. Additionally, Engineering Geology Section staff were authors or co-authors of eleven scientific papers published in national and international journals, on topics ranging from glacier outburst floods and sea ice to landslides, permafrost, and coastal flooding and erosion. The Volcanology Section, working in conjunction with federal U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and University of Alaska Fairbanks partners, published ten reports including a post-eruption study of gases and thermal waters at Okmok volcano, version 2 of the Alaska Volcano Observatory geochemical database, geochemical data on rock samples from Little Sitkin volcano, and a report detailing the chronology and impacts of the 2016-2017 Bogoslof eruption. During FY2020, DGGS Volcanology section staff responded to volcanic unrest at Cleveland, Semisopochnoi, Shishaldin, Veniaminof, and Great Sitkin volcanoes. Extensive upgrades to volcano monitoring equipment were accomplished in the Cook Inlet, on the Alaska Peninsula, and on Unimak Island. Our field teams completed the transfer of operation of stations on Unimak and Akutan Islands from UNAVCO (a university research consortium) to AVO, as well as the transfer of four Alaska Transportable Array (TA) seismic sites to AVO operation. The upgrades in ground-based instrumentation includes seismometers, infrasound sensors, and web cameras, significantly improving the Alaska Volcano Observatory's ability to detect unrest, forecast eruptive activity, and issue timely alerts of volcano hazards. Related links:    • Alaska Volcano Observatory    • DGGS Engineering Geology Program    • Alaska Geologic Hazards Information

Target #2: Contain more than 90% of wildland fires at less than 10 acres within Alaska's heavily populated areas (Critical and Full Management Options) in accordance with the Alaska Interagency Wildland Fire Management Plan. Methodology: Division of Forestry Protection Areas only. False Alarms not included. Source: Integrated Fire Management System and Alaska Interagency Coordination Center Predictive Service fire spread sheet. Percentage of Fires Successfully Contained at Less Than 10 Acres Year # of Fires in Critical Success-Critical # of Fires in Full Success-Full Overall Success 2020 126 98% 42 89% 96% 2019 202 95% 107 70% 86% 2018 111 98% 47 83% 90% 2017 102 98% 39 77% 87% 2016 179 99% 108 84% 91% 2015 223 99% 130 65% 86% 2014 235 99% 51 99% 98% 2013 286 98% 76 91% 93% 2012 257 99% 61 84% 95% 2011 261 99% 65 91% 95% 2010 223 97% 63 86% 95% Analysis of results and challenges: Fire Management Options (Critical, Full, Modified, Limited) are areas that have been predesignated by federal and state fire managers in Alaska to geographically prioritize initial protection actions. The Fire Management Options help allocate available firefighting resources, optimize agency land use plans, and keep fire suppression costs commensurate with values at risk. The Critical and Full management option areas respectively receive the first and second highest priority for fire suppression, and are usually found surrounding communities or other areas with numerous values at risk. A key goal of the division is to contain 90% of wildland fires at less than 10 acres within Critical and Full management option areas. In 2020, 98% of fires in the Critical management option and 89% of fires within the Full management option were contained at less than 10 acres. Several of these fires had potential to threaten structures and other urban values if they were not suppressed and kept small. One notable exception was the early-season Trumpeter Fire in the Kenai, which ignited in late April in a Critical suppression area and grew to 139 acres, before being contained. The Any Creek fire in Fairbanks area was ignited in a Full suppression area and was limited to 44 acres after having received extremely aggressive initial attack with aircraft and fire personnel. Any Creek had started in the area of Shovel Creek fire from 2019, which grew to over 22,000 acres, necessitating evacuations and eventually costing over $20 million dollars

Target #3: Provide wildland fire training to agency personnel, fire departments, and urban and rural communities. Methodology: performance measures: local offices: total students refresher, red card; statewide: 300 level, OSHA, Safety Analysis of results and challenges: A broad range of training is provided to firefighters, ranging from introductory classes for first year firefighters to advanced training for returning firefighters and fire managers. Efficient, cost effective, safe, and successful initial attack relies on the highly trained seasonal firefighters, structure/volunteer local fire departments, local Emergency Firefighters (EFF) and crews. Annual training and certification ensure the availability of this workforce when needed during fire activity and meets national standards which qualify them for further fire assignments. In 2020, DOF provided 64 training sessions and physical fitness tests to more than 945 personnel including EFF, volunteer fire department and State of Alaska personnel. This number is lower than average due to the pandemic, but reformatted training venues and increased use of virtual platformed enabled DOF to meet minimal numbers for a qualified workforce in 2020. The challenge for the division is to ensure that the training provided is meeting the needs of firefighters and managers on Alaska fires. This challenge is currently met with a training staff that plans, coordinates, and provides specific fire courses designed to develop Alaska's firefighters for the future. These courses are provided to the inter-agency fire community which provides leverage for the Division to provide extensive opportunities to its employees and cooperators. Related links:    • Division of Forestry Firefighting Resources

Target #4: Fill the firefighting needs for the average fire season with Alaskan firefighters. Methodology: Alaska Interagency Coordination Center from IROC reports. Resource Ordering Support System - only those individuals placed on a resource order are counted. Individuals utilized locally on initial attack are generally not placed on a resource order. Percent of Alaskan Crews & Individuals Assigned to Alaska Fires / Total Needed Year AK Indiv. Assigned % AK Individuals AK Crews Assigned % AK Crews 2020 849 59% 48 81% 2019 1,522 41% 76 29% 2018 548 92 31 100% 2017 1,484 95% 70 100% 2016 1,797 94% 116 66% 2015 2,634 50% 448 48% 2014 320 66% 31 75.6% 2013 1,521 74.7% 94 81.2% 2012 725 95.3% 65 100% 2011 2,017 83.5% 122 89.1% 2010 484 55.8% 83 85.3% Analysis of results and challenges: Department Order 017 identifies that the Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry provide a strong initial attack, management and support capability to assure maximum efficiency is achieved for an average fire year based on the historical fire occurrence. As the complexity and length of the fire season increases, the need for experienced personnel to manage these fires has become even more critical. Extensive knowledge and training are necessary to make timely decisions about strategy and tactics. This is more critical as the urban interface environment and the responsibilities to protect lives, homes and communities continues to grow. A successful program requires a trained, experienced Alaskan firefighting workforce combined with infrastructure, equipment, and logistical support. Within DOF Fire Management Areas, there has been a consistent turnover of fire managers, Type 3 Incident Commanders, Division Supervisors as well as dispatch and aviation personnel. Recruitment and retention of a qualified firefighting force within the DOF has been challenging due to the short season of employment combined with more competitive wages and benefits in the private and Federal sectors. Despite the slower than average Alaska fire season, Alaska still needed to order 344 single resource overhead, 9 crews and 13 aircraft to be mobilized from the L-48 for assistance. The division's need for Lower-48 firefighting resources (agency crews, contract crews, and individuals with advanced training to meet initial and extended attack suppression objectives) should be replaced with increased in-state capacity to provide jobs to Alaskans. The division hired fifteen short term non-permanent positions (STNP) for thirty days each. These STNPs were divided among the DOF areas and helped to fill basic firefighting personnel needs such as engine and helicopter crewmembers and wildland fire dispatchers. 30 task books were issued for these positions, and by the end of the season 5 were certified as "full qualified". A five person STNP helitack module with was formed in McGrath, providing the area with additional capacity to provide helicopter supported initial attack in the area, while providing the STNPs with valuable fire experience. Related links:    • Division of Forestry Employment Opportunities

Target #5: Minimize lost work days for firefighters. Methodology: 2020 information from Safety Officer # of employees non-perm, perm, EFF from Admin Firefighter Safety: Total Days Lost Year Employees Total Hours Worked Total Days 2020 650 1,250 21 2019 1,037 5,589 209 2018 598 1,250 166 2017 895 1,250 293 2016 1,196 1,876 216 2015 1,496 2,094 236 2014 930 3,051.3 159 2013 434 910.6 391 2012 764 1,050.1 107 2011 720 993.2 409 2010 767 1,114.3 105 2009 749 1,000.8 326 Analysis of results and challenges: The inherit risk in all firefighting activity was made clear this year with the unfortunate aircraft accident that occurred during a mission to transport three emergency firefighters from Hooper Bay to Soldotna for training. 909AK, DOF's logistics "Shrike" fixed wing aircraft, lost power on take-off out of Aniak due to incorrect fuel, and crashed in a shallow pond just beyond the airstrip. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but injuries to the passengers ranged from minor to serious, and the aircraft was destroyed. DOF aviation and safety managers are working with interagency partners to develop training and/or protocols to mitigate the chances of an accident like this happening again. The division is now looking for a way to replace 909AK in order to be able to efficiently complete its mission. Despite the challenges created by COVID-19, DOF continued to maintain a safe fire line operational record by emphasizing safety of firefighters and the public as the top priority. Some of 2020's decline in lost workdays (due to injury) is attributable to less employee hours worked with the slower than average Alaska season. Online safety training (SafetyHub) saved instructor travel expenses, and efficiently delivered training to DOF employees across the State when classroom training was not possible due to COVID-19. Mandatory training for all division personnel includes an annual Fireline Safety Refresher, CPR/1st Aid and defensive driving training, and complement of OSHA training related to general workplace safety. Initial certification and daily tailgate safety sessions include proper use of firefighting equipment such as chainsaws, engines, forklifts, dozers, and safety analysis of firefighting facilities to mitigate hazards.

Target #6: Provide safe, cost effective wildland fire protection services to the State of Alaska. Methodology: Critical management option was created to give the highest priority to suppression action on wildland fires that threaten human life, inhabited property, designated physical developments and structural resources. Full management option is for the protection of cultural and historical sites, private property, natural resource high-value areas, and other high-value areas. Modified management option provides a higher level of protection when fire danger is high, probability of significant fire growth is high, and probability of containment is low. An evaluation date occurs for consideration to convert to Limited option on July 10th when potential for fire danger and fire growth decreases. Limited management option recognizes areas where the cost of suppression may exceed the value of the resources to be protected, the environmental impacts of fire suppression activities may have more negative impacts on the resources than the effects of the fire or the exclusion of fire may be detrimental to the fire dependent ecosystem. Fire Starts and Acres Burned (thousands) - Statewide Year # of fires Limited Acres Modified Acres Full Acres Critical Acres Acres Burned 2020 340 162.0 9.7 9.2 .2 181.2 2019 722 2,260.5 220.1 176.8 14.8 2,578.2 2018 341 334.5 41.7 32.1 .17 408.5 2017 353 593.6 2.0 57.0 .16 652.9 2016 552 381.4 67.3 50.0 0.8 499.6 2015 766 3,465.4 552 1,057.5 70 5,144.9 2014 386 7.3 24.3 201.0 .2 232.8 2013 608 1,228.4 60.2 29.8 2.3 1,320.7 2012 422 243.5 14.6 9.7 2.8 270.6 2011 522 202.5 6.9 81.6 2.0 293.0 2010 696 841.6 211.4 53.9 18.6 1,125.5 Analysis of results and challenges: Long term trends show that Alaska's fire seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer, although there is significant and unpredictable variability in acreage burned from season to season, which creates challenges in determining pre-season preparedness levels and resource allocation. After one of the largest Alaska fire seasons on record last year, 2020 was below average in terms of number of fires and acres burned (340 fires for 181,253 acres), though the division was able to successfully respond and contain numerous potential "problem" fires in Critical and Full management option areas. The division's primary challenge of 2020 was in providing a qualified workforce with necessary procedures and equipment in place to safely respond to wildland fires in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Issues stemming from the pandemic began to arise just before the onboarding of the seasonal workforce and the wildland fire training season in early March. Travel restrictions necessitated the cancellation and rescheduling of firefighter training, which created difficulty in division personnel meeting mandatory training, as well as in the development needed higher qualifications. On-site readiness inspections had to be cancelled, and the interagency Spring Operations Meeting had to be postponed and was eventually conducted virtually. The dissemination of information and protocols for conducting standard business created a lag in 2020 fire season preparedness, but the assignment of a COVID-19 Incident Management Team within DOF was key in eventually getting protocols and information flow corrected. Another challenge was coordinating and developing standards within the framework of the interagency environment, which is key in the successful wildland fire management in Alaska. There were conflicting policies between Federal and State agencies, which created delays in being able to mobilize resources on several fires during the season. Related links:    • Division of Forestry Wildland Fire Program    • Alaska Interagency Wildland Fire Management Plan

Target #7: Reduce the impact of wildfire smoke on the public by working to mitigate smoke concerns from fires near communities. Methodology: AK Department of Environmental Conservation - Statewide Air Quality Advisories Issued Due to Wildland Fire Smoke Year Advisories Issued by DEC Acres Burned 2020 3 181,253 2019 40 2,578,272 2018 5 408,549 2017 6 652,904 2016 8 499,559 2015 69 5,144,880 2014 7 232,776 2013 20 1,320,644 2012 7 270,548 2011 2 293,526 2010 4 1,125,526 2009 25 2,951,614 Analysis of results and challenges: Wildland fire in the boreal forest of Alaska is inevitable. If fires burn near communities, the smoke from these fires may become a health issue for those community residents. The Division of Forestry has two potential opportunities to reduce the health impacts to those residents. The first is notification and education. In concert with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Alaskans are provided education of potential health impacts from wildland smoke. In addition, DEC issues Air Quality Advisories (AQA) when wildfire smoke may impact a community. Residents armed with this information can make decisions for themselves on whether they should leave the area, take precautions in place, or not be concerned. The second potential opportunity to reduce health impacts from wildland smoke is to make fire management decisions on fires that can impact the amount of smoke produced. Examples of the range of actions that could be implemented include early season suppression on an ongoing fire to inhibit fire growth to the suppression of new starts within a defined geographic area in proximity to a community. In 2020, air quality due to wildfires was not a major issue for residents within Alaska. DEC issued three wildfire related air quality advisories between June 5th and June 15th for the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding communities in response to several early-season fires burning on the refuge. There was some concern from the public about smoke at several points throughout the summer, but this was determined to be drift smoke coming from fires in Siberia. Related links:    • DEC, Division of Air Quality Smoke in Alaska    • DEC Air Quality Advisories

Target #1: Process a minimum of 90% of new land use applications received. Methodology: Reporting has changed to split water and land authorizations into separate reports. There may be differences in numbers from past performance measure reports. Land use applications received are for permits, leases, easements, material sales and sites, and interagency land management assignments authorizations. Analysis of results and challenges: The numbers reflected in the chart as issued are not a direct subset of the new applications because some cases are issued from applications received in previous years. DMLW continues to steadily process new land use and resource applications. Staff time has, however, been diverted to work on complex cases that are resistant to solution, and politically sensitive cases which required significantly above average staff and manager time per case to bring to completion. Staff time has also been diverted to assistance on draft regulation and statute projects, and with policy and procedure development for implementation of new fee regulations which were adopted in July 2018, efficiencies in authorization of fiber optic cable projects, implementation of special purpose material sale statute adopted in 2012, special land use permits and performance guarantee guidance. Not included in the above numbers are trespass cases which do not start with an application, but require the adjudicatory work. The numbers are not reflective of entry authorizations that allow applicants to use and construct on state land before final issuance of easements and leases. Each new authorization issued creates a new workload of contract administration, assignments, amendments, name changes, sub-lease agreements, billing, monitoring, compliance and close out, all of which is not reflected in these numbers. The division expects there to be more applications in future years as the state strives to bring in additional entitlement acres with high development potential each year, and the division moves to improve tracking and resolution of previously unauthorized uses which could be legitimately permitted. The division's stewardship responsibilities that do not involve issuing an authorization are constant. The substantial amount of time staff spends on these issues takes them away from their duties to process authorizations. Despite necessary diversion of stewardship responsibilities, policy development, and the additional challenges (need for rapid adoption, training and widespread use of new collaboration/communication technologies to accommodate telework) in the face of Corona virus pandemic response, in FY2020, the number of land use authorizations issued by DMLW staff exceeded new applications received. In general, many types of businesses received authorizations that allowed use of state land for financial gain. Authorizations in this component benefit utility, oil and gas, mining, commercial recreation, tourism, fishing, construction, and other development industries by giving them legal access to the state owned and managed land, water and resources. If the division is not able to issue these authorizations in a timely manner, these same industries are adversely affected. Often businesses cannot plan their operations, get investment capital, insurance, or loans if they do not have required land authorizations.

Target #2: Process a minimum of 90% of new water use applications received. Methodology: The water and land information has been split. These numbers may vary from previous performance measure reports. Water resource applications include water rights certificates, temporary water use authorizations, and instream flow reservations. Analysis of results and challenges: The use of state water resources is primarily managed through issued water rights and temporary water use authorizations. During FY2020 a combined total of 482 applications were received and 436 authorizations were issued, providing a 91% processing rate. It is noteworthy that progress was made with reducing the historical backlog of water right applications with 171 new applications in FY2020 and 179 certificates issued during the same timeframe. An intentional lag in processing a subset of temporary water use authorizations was requested by some applicants as their work is either delayed or suspended longer term, accounting for the differential between applications received and authorizations issued.

Target #3: Receive lands essential to the state's economic development and for maximum public benefit, including lands rich in natural resources, selected for municipal entitlements, necessary for settlement, and to eliminate federal inholdings. Methodology: Reporting methods were altered in 2019. Numbers prior to 2019 may not match previous Performance Measures Reports. Acres of Statehood Entitlement Lands Received Fiscal Year New Confirmatory FY 2020 30,132 735,488 FY 2019 101,676 983,253 FY 2018 7,819 296,853 FY 2017 1,806 13,480 FY 2016 13,881 740,323 FY 2015 28,556 649,283 FY 2014 1,177 361,681 FY 2013 80,815 1,310 Analysis of results and challenges: The state has acquired approximately 101 million acres of the 106 million acres to which it is entitled under the Alaska Statehood Act and various other federal laws. The Realty Services Section (RSS) worked with the Mining Section and the Regional Land Offices to convert 15 federal mining claims to state ownership, along with additional lands in support of the Graphite One mineral project. The state's entitlement was credited 439 acres due to Native allotment reconveyances and corrections to prior federal deeds. In reviewing and approving over 735,000 acres of confirmatory title, RSS staff confirmed that approximately 20,000 acres of previously tentatively approved lands were, in fact, navigable or meanderable waters or overcharged acres. These 20,000 acres were credited to the states' remaining entitlement. In FY2020, RSS worked with BLM to remove Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Sec. 17(d)(1) and (d)(2) Public Land Order (PLO) withdrawals within the 40 Mile and Bering Glacier Regional Management Plan (RMP) areas. Removal of these PLOs in FY2020 opened approximately 1.1 million acres of land to state selection and mineral entry. The state requested title to 20,000 acres within this area. In FY2020, RSS began working with BLM to remove ANCSA Sec. 17(d)(1) withdrawals in the Seward Peninsula/Kobuk RMP; once removed approximately 1 million acres will be open for selection and mineral entry. In FY2021, RSS will continue to work closely with BLM on lifting additional ANCSA and non-ANCSA withdrawals in the Goodnews Bay and Ring of Fire RMPs, opening more lands to state selection, conveyance, and mineral entry. RSS will also request conveyance of high priority and value lands within the Chugach and Tongass National Forests, along the Denali Highway, and in support of infrastructure projects like the Ambler Road.

Target #4: Provide accessible, clean, safe, and well-maintained park facilities for Alaska residents and visitors by reducing deferred maintenance needs in park units. Parks Deferred Maintenance Fiscal Year DM Funding DM Backlog FY 2021 0 64,374.5 FY 2020 400.0 60,647.5 FY 2019 0 63,393.0 FY 2018 100.0 65,270.0 FY 2017 0 66,631.5 FY 2016 0 59,584.6 Analysis of results and challenges: The division continues to work on the highest priority deferred maintenance projects affecting life, health, and safety. Historic data shows that an annual investment of about $3,000,000 per year is needed to keep the deferred maintenance backlog in check. Deferred maintenance funding has decreased dramatically over the past six fiscal years resulting in an increasing trend in the backlog. Sustained deferred maintenance funding continues to be a challenge, which the division is actively trying to find a solution.

Target #5: Collect fees necessary to reach authorized program receipt funds in the Parks Management and Access budget; annually evaluate and if necessary, raise fees in order to reach program receipts authorization. Methodology: *Other revenue represents Commercial Use Permits, Park Use Permits, Boat Launch Fees, and Boat Launch Decals. Revenue Collected on Park User Fees (In Thousands) Fiscal Year Camping Cabins Parking Other Rev.* GF/PR Auth FY 2020 561.4 798.4 1,505.9 1,837.8 4,740.5 FY 2019 659.8 717.5 1,420.1 1,369.2 4,434.2 FY 2018 594.9 620.1 1,277.5 1,316.0 3,858.9 FY 2017 642.3 550.8 1,436.3 1,445.0 3,429.9 FY 2016 571.5 569.9 1,272.0 1,276.8 3,426.6 FY 2015 373.2 561.5 1,145.3 1,136.8 3,336.1 FY 2014 329.5 445.1 996.9 978.1 2,822.2 FY 2013 284.7 420 779.5 1,113.3 2,618.4 FY 2012 292.1 401.5 866.3 1,108.9 2,466.3 FY 2011 304.5 375.5 703.7 904.5 2,381.7 FY 2010 315.8 356.6 761.9 916.5 2,323.8 FY 2009 305.6 341.8 611.5 1,028.4 2,269.4 Analysis of results and challenges: The division will continue reviewing fee structures and adjust fees with the goal of raising fee revenues to match the cost of providing services and better support park operations. Any new investments in the division's infrastructure will be reviewed with the idea of sustainability and revenue producing potential in mind. Investments in public use cabins, electronic fee stations, and similar infrastructure have revenue producing potential and fill a demonstrated public demand.

Target #1: Publish airborne geophysical survey data for Alaska's minerals-interest lands. Methodology: Number of square miles of new airborne geophysical surveys of minerals-interest lands published during the fiscal year. Square Miles of Published Minerals-Related Airborne Geophysical Data Fiscal Year Square Miles Target FY 2021 12,800 FY 2020 0 4,200 FY 2019 5,477 5,566 FY 2018 0 5,500 FY 2017 0 3,430 FY 2016 4,552 4,500 FY 2015 2,318 2,300 FY 2014 2,176 2,500 FY 2013 1,267 1,200 FY 2012 850 800 FY 2011 742 700 FY 2010 653 640 Analysis of results and challenges: Much of Alaska's lands with high mineral-resource potential have poorly exposed geology due to tundra and tree cover. Airborne geophysical surveys measure physical properties of the earth; these properties correspond to various geologic features and measurements are not affected by vegetation. Airborne geophysical survey data are invaluable for guiding subsequent ground-based geologic mapping, sampling, and associated mineral-assessment work. Only about 28 percent of prioritized mineral-bearing state lands have been geophysically surveyed, and the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) is committed to acquiring data in remaining areas of the state that have high mineral-resource potential, subject to availability of funding. In FY2020 and FY2021 1,000 square miles of helicopter magnetic and radiometric data were collected. Funding for these data was provided by the State of Alaska (40%) and mineral industry contributions (60%). These data will be published in FY2021. The federal Earth MRI critical minerals program was funded by the U.S. Congress in FFY2019, and it is anticipated to be a 10-year project to acquire airborne geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, and lidar over areas of the nation with critical minerals potential. DGGS has been contracted by the USGS to manage the federal geophysical contracts covering large portions of Alaska's mineral districts. USGS Earth MRI funding from federal fiscal year 2019 will support the collection of 7,500 square miles of fixed-wing magnetic and radiometric data in FY2021. BLM resource-assessment and USGS Earth MRI funding from federal fiscal year 2020 will allow the state to collect and additional 8,500 square miles of fixed-wing magnetic and radiometric data during FY2021. Publication of these federally funded surveys are planned for early FY2022. Contractors for the federally funded Earth MRI 2019 and 2020 fixed-wing surveys were unable to travel to Alaska in summer 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions, so this work has been rescheduled for summer 2021. Initial surveying of about 7,500 square miles is planned for spring/summer 2021 in the Yukon-Tanana Uplands, and publication of survey data in early FY2022. Related links:    • DGGS geophysics program

Target #2: Publish reports on energy-related geology that assist the energy industry and state agencies in exploring for and managing energy resources on state-interest lands. Methodology: Number of new reports published on energy-related geology during the fiscal year. New Reports Published on Energy-Related Geology Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Total Target FY 2021 6 FY 2020 4 6 FY 2019 11 7 FY 2018 4 7 FY 2017 4 8 FY 2016 16 12 FY 2015 17 11 FY 2014 9 9 FY 2013 9 5 FY 2012 6 7 FY 2011 2 1 FY 2010 9 7 Analysis of results and challenges: Publicly available detailed geologic knowledge is important for energy resource development and management. This information must result from the most modern analyses and incorporate all available data in order to identify frontier areas of energy exploration and encourage investment on state lands. A critical component of this effort is the publication of geologic reports on a wide range of energy sources. During FY2020, the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys published 4 reports providing new geologic data to assist oil and gas exploration throughout Alaska. The publication total is two less than the target, reflecting the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in many contract analyses being delayed by closures at vendor laboratories, hindering efforts to synthesize information in a timely manner. The summer 2020 field season was also canceled, resulting in a lack of new field data. Despite these challenges, two major digital products were published, both the result of large structure-from-motion surveys. This photogrammetric method produces very high-resolution digital surface models and ortho-imagery of important outcrops and serves as a base for mapping reservoir-scale sand bodies. One survey was of the Usibelli Group type section in Suntrana Creek, and represents a potential analogue for fluvial reservoir geometry in the nearby Nenana Basin subsurface. The other survey is from key exposures of the Nanushuk and Torok Formations at Slope Mountain on the North Slope. This data will be used to inform seismic and reservoir models, including at the newly discovered oil fields at Pikka and Willow. The other two publications are companion papers than report very high precision stratigraphic ages using U-Pb geochronology. The first paper was published in an influential peer-reviewed journal and focused on the novel techniques and protocols developed in collaboration with Boise State University. The second paper was published through DGGS and focuses on an application of these new methods to important potential reservoir units in Cook Inlet. During FY2020, Energy Section staff collaborated extensively with geologists from the U.S. Geological Survey, most notably through planning and permitting efforts to drill multiple stratigraphic test-cores on the North Slope. This program was postponed due to COVID-19. Collaborations with the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology (BEG) were funded by industry and involved new assessments of important Brookian reservoir intervals on the eastern North Slope. Related links:    • DGGS Energy Resources program

Current as of November 19, 2020