Description
This notice records the State of Alaska’s decision to partially relinquish two State‑selected land parcels (GS‑4513 and GS‑5712) in the Kauk River area—approximately 25,461 acres located about 32 mi northeast of Buckland—to the University of Alaska under the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023. The relinquishment will enable the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to convey the lands to the University, facilitating the University’s land‑grant entitlement. The process involved agency reviews (Nov 21‑Dec 12 2025), a public notice period (Feb 19‑Apr 3 2026), and comment collection (13 comments received). The lands are classified as medium priority (rank 3) for statehood selections, contain potential sand‑and‑gravel resources, continuous permafrost, and limited mineral potential. No active mining claims exist, and public access for hunting, subsistence, and recreation will be permitted under University‑managed programs.
• Relinquishment of State selections to satisfy the University of Alaska Fiscal Foundation Act.
• Total area: ~25,461 acres across two selection files.
• Agency reviews completed; public comment period closed.
• No known RS‑2477 rights‑of‑way or major trails; public access allowed.
• Potential sand/gravel resources, but material quality uncertain.
• Permafrost, low seismic hazard, medium‑high radon potential.
• No bid or contract award; this is an administrative land‑transfer decision.