Coastal areas still open for tundra travel

Kristen Nelson

Petroleum News

The state's eastern and western coastal areas remain open for tundra travel, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources' Division of Mining, Land and Water said in a May 6 update.

The areas were sampled the week of April 29 through May 3. "Weather patterns and ambient temperatures have been consistent with the Freeze Thaw Cycle, which is common this time of year," the division said.

The eastern area opened Jan. 11 and the western area Jan. 16.

"Road dust and vegetation are leading to some snow-pack deterioration in heavily trafficked areas," the division said, so areas with high density roads may no longer be suitable for off-road travel, although winter off-road travel is still appropriate in most areas.

The lower and upper foothills areas remain closed to off-road winter travel.

The division said staff will sample areas again the week of May 6, and will issue closing announcements as needed.

--Petroleum News