Notice of Decision Partial Release of State Interest, GS-2325, GS-4954, and GS-4959(Pediment Creek)

This decision authorizes the State of Alaska to relinquish three State‑selected land parcels (GS‑2325, GS‑4954, GS‑4959) totaling approximately 15,329 acres in the northern Brooks Range foothills (Pediment Creek area) so that the Bureau of Land Management may convey them to the University of Alaska under the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act. The land is high‑priority for oil‑and‑gas potential (Priority 1) but also contains wildlife habitat, caribou winter range, and anadromous fish streams. Agency reviews (ADF&G, DOT&PF, DOG Leasing, DGGS, etc.) raised concerns about research access, future mineral leasing, and public use, which were addressed through permit assurances and the acknowledgment that the University must honor existing federal and state permits. Public comments (14 total) opposed the relinquishment on grounds of hunting, fishing, subsistence, and traditional use, but the Department concluded that relinquishment serves the public interest by fulfilling the University’s land‑grant mission and potentially generating future revenue for the state. The decision was approved on 9 Oct 2026, with a 20‑day reconsideration window for affected parties. • Relinquishment of ~15,329 acres to the University of Alaska. • Intended to satisfy the University’s land‑grant entitlement under CAA 2023. • High priority for oil‑and‑gas (Priority 1) but geology deemed over‑mature for commercial production. • Wildlife considerations: caribou winter range, salmon‑bearing streams, and habitat for moose. • Agency comments addressed through permit continuity (e.g., ADF&G caribou study permit ADL 422555). • Public comment period: Feb 19 2026 – Mar 26 2026; all comments opposed. • Decision: Conditional relinquishment approved; effective upon BLM conveyance after reconsideration period.