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 auction was held December 16, 2020 offering 110 parcels. Auction parcels were 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. On a calendar year basis the number of sales is consistent. However, due to an auction occurring a few days prior to the end of FY2020, the results show an increase to FY2020 and a decrease to FY2021. Current fiscal year is on track for normal sales.

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 2021 99 -36.13% FY 2020 155 +8.39% FY 2019 143 -28.5% FY 2018 200 -28.83% Analysis of results and challenges: The Pipeline Section 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. The Pipeline Section 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 2021 16 5 3 2 26 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 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 33 percent increase in coordinated mineral projects from FY2020 to FY2021 reflects increased mineral exploration activities driven in part by strong mineral prices. 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. OPMP's principal challenge for providing permit coordination is maintaining sufficient organizational capacity (i.e. staffing, training, expertise, budget resources, etc.) to adjust to fluctuations in coordinated project workloads and deliver timely, coordinated project reviews. Such workload 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 2021 28 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 30 new timber sales sold to 28 Alaskan firms in FY2021 and there are currently 38 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 2020 $38.5 2019 $37.8 2018 $37.9 2017 $34.8 2016 $33.9 2015 $33.8 2014 $31.9 2013 $30.0 2012 $30.8 Analysis of results and challenges: Despite leveling of Agricultural sales in FY2019, there was an increase in sales in FY2020, demonstrating Alaskan Agricultures resiliency despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. 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 2020 90% 0% 97% 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. No BMP ratings occurred during 2020 in southcentral, a reflection of staff vacancies and budget reductions. 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 2015-2020 Adult Life Jacket Wear Rate Percentages Powerboats National vs. Alaska (2015-2020) Year National Average Alaska Average YTD Total Average 5.2 15.7 20.9 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 2022 34 FY 2021 32 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 FY2021, DGGS authors published 32 new reports and peer-reviewed publications on geologic hazards. The Engineering Geology Section published 16 hazards-related DGGS reports and datasets in FY2021, including an information circular of frequently-asked-questions (FAQ) on tsunami hazards, 10 LiDAR datasets, one ortho-image with accompanying photogrammetry-derived elevation dataset, three coastal hazards reports, and a major professional report on the surficial geology and geohazards of the Alaska Highway corridor that summarizes results of a multi-year project evaluating surficial geology, permafrost, engineering geology, and active faulting along the Alaska Highway between Delta Junction and the Canada Border. Engineering Geology section geoscientists authored or co-authored an additional 15 papers in peer-reviewed journals and other non-DGGS publications, covering a wide range of geohazards including permafrost, landslides, snow avalanches, and climate change. The Volcanology Section, working in conjunction with federal U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and University of Alaska Fairbanks partners, published two reports summarizing volcanic activity in Alaska in the years 2016 and 2017. These reports include a detailed account of Alaska Volcano Observatory response to volcanic events and serve as both a record of activity and a resource when forecasting future events. A new report on the petrology and geochemistry of three Early Holocene eruptions from Makushin volcano has shed new light on the age and source of magma at Makushin volcano and related vents near Dutch Harbor/Unalaska. This new information helps guide AVO's interpretation of seismic events and gas measurements as they relate to magma movement and eruption potential in the region. 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. 3 fires greater than 10 ac. in "Full" were not counted as they were treated as "non standard" and were purposefully not suppressed. 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 2021 177 99% 48 83% 95% 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 2021, 99% of fires in the Critical management option and 83% of fires within the Full management option were contained at less than 10 acres with a combined success rate of 95%. Several of these fires had potential to threaten structures and other urban values had they not been suppressed and kept small. The Haystack (927 ac.) and Yankovich fires (3.5 ac.) in the Fairbanks Area both ignited near subdivisions, and were aggressively suppressed utilizing retardant and water scooping aircraft, helicopters and ground based personnel. The About Mountain fire near McGrath ignited in a Full suppression area, though due to high initial attack fire activity around the State, sufficient resources to catch the fire were not available. The fire grew to over 2000 acres, and required staffing for several weeks to control as resources became available.

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. The number of EFF, Fire Department and Forestry personnel trained in 2021 rebounded after a steep decline last year due to COVID, but was still slightly below average. There were still challenges in conducting training during the pandemic, and dealing with the various policies of each agency involved. 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 2021 1887 86% 87 94% 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 304 single resource overhead, 5 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 2021 750 0 86 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 number of lost workdays due to injury ticked up this year as compared to 2020's extremely slow fire season but was still below the 10 year average. One of the most dangerous aspects of firefighting is known to be transportation to and from incidents. Unfortunately, a single vehicle accident occurred when a DOF firefighter was mobilizing to the Munson Creek fire, causing the occupant significant injuries and extended hospitalization. Driving safety has been and will be further emphasized during refresher and tailgate safety meetings. In 2021, DOF took all precautions possible to prevent the spread of COVID, but some cases caused missed time. 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. 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.

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 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 potentn 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 impof 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. 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 2021 387 194.9 6.6 52.4 0.3 254.3 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: In terms of acreage burned Alaskan fire seasons could best be described as episodic, with a high degree of variability from year to year, though long-term trends point to longer seasons and larger fires, as is being experienced in the western United States as well as in other parts of the world. For instance, with latitudes similar to Alaska, parts of Siberia saw a record-breaking temperatures in 2021 and an estimated 40 million acres burned. Alaska was actually affected by this Siberian smoke through much of the summer. This season, Alaska saw an increase in acreage burned from 2020. but still below average with 254,318 acres burned by 387 fires. Even with the slower seasons, the expansion of communities into the wildland fire / urban interface continues to create challenges for the Division. DOF aggressively suppressed numerous fires near communities that had potential to cause significant damage to private property and infrastructure, and kept them to a small size (under 10 acres). There were also several fires in the Interior during a June/July warm and dry spell that grew to significant size, threated communities and businesses, and necessitated point protection of values at risk. Related links:    • Division of Forestry Wildland Fire Program

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 2021 8 254,318 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. DEC issued eight wildfire related air quality advisories throughout the 2021 fire season, one of which was related to smoke produced by fires in Canada. All of the other advisories were triggered by smoke from larger fires in the Interior, including Munson Creek and the Haystack fires. DOF coordinated with DEC and kept the public informed through various media outlets. Suppression efforts also reduced the probability of smoke effects to communities around Alaska. 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 and has increased percentage processed in FY2021 over that achieved in FY2020. 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, development of new Over the Counter (OTC) permit programs, and development and update of improved web pages, fact sheets, and forms for improved public availability and information. Not included in the above numbers are trespass cases which do not start with an application, but require 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, as federally-approved infrastructure initiatives generate new projects, 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 FY2021, the number of land use authorizations issued by DMLW staff continued to exceed 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 FY2021 a combined total of 443 applications were received and 356 authorizations were issued, providing a, 80% processing rate. 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. Not all temporary water use applications result in an authorization due to project changes. A record of this is reported under casefile administration, along with other actions, which amount to 358 transactions in FY2021. A total of 170 water right applications were received in FY2021 and 160 certificates (or permits) were issued, yielding a 94% processing rate for water rights.

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 2021 132 714,557 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 state's entitlement was credited 160 acres due to Native allotment reconveyances and corrections to prior federal deeds. In reviewing and approving over 714,000 acres of confirmatory title, Realty Services Section (RSS) staff determined that approximately 3,600 acres of previously tentatively approved lands were, in fact, navigable or meanderable waters. RSS staff also confirmed that approximately 15,600 acres were overcharged when Tentatively Approved; these acres were corrected when final patent was issued and were credited to the states' remaining entitlement. In FY2021, RSS staff reviewed all high priority and value lands within the Tongass National Forest and Southeast and requested conveyance of suitable lands. In FY2022, RSS will continue to work with BLM on lifting additional ANCSA and non-ANCSA withdrawals which will open more lands to state selection, conveyance, and mineral entry. RSS will also request conveyance of high priority and value lands within the Chugach National Forest, 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 2022 2,584.0 69,598.0 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 FY2016 through FY2021 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 2021 623.5 1,031.8 1,736.8 905.4 4,748.9 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 2022 0 5,800 FY 2021 1,000 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 were 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 7,300 square miles of fixed-wing magnetic and radiometric data. BLM resource-assessment and USGS Earth MRI funding from federal fiscal year 2020 allowed the state to collect 8,900 square miles of fixed-wing magnetic and radiometric data during FY2021, and publication of these surveys is planned for early FY2022. USGS Earth MRI funding from federal fiscal year 2021 will support the collection of 5,800 square miles of fixed-wing magnetic and radiometric data. Contractors for the federally funded Earth MRI 2019 and 2021 fixed-wing surveys were unable to travel to Alaska in summer 2020 and 2021 due to Covid-19 restrictions, so this work has been rescheduled for summer 2022. 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 2022 6 FY 2021 6 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 FY2021, the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys published 6 reports providing new geologic data to assist oil and gas exploration throughout Alaska. Although the target was achieved, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted productivity through delayed contract analyses and the cancellation of the 2020 field season, both of which hindered efforts to acquire and synthesize new information in a timely manner. Despite these challenges, new data and interpretations were published for basins across Alaska, including a geophysical gravity survey of the Holitna Basin, three papers on North Slope stratigraphy, and two papers relevant to Cook Inlet petroleum geology. The North Slope contributions include some of the first outcrop observations of a potentially important reservoir target. Another North Slope paper was published in the journal Basin Research and was the culmination of a multiyear, industry funded collaboration with the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology. The Cook Inlet papers included a major compilation of Cenozoic thermal maturity and palynology data as well as a detailed sedimentology paper on an important, but under-explored potential Jurassic reservoir unit. During FY2021, 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 and ultimately canceled due to the loss of USGS project funding. Related links:    • DGGS Energy Resources program

Current as of December 16, 2021