THE ALASKA MINER JOURNAL: The publication is member-only news mailed to AMA members, eight times a year, in months when the Magazine is not published. The Alaska Miner Journal is dedicated to those who work in and support the mining industry in Alaska, its commitment to the people, and the resources of our state. Our goal is to disseminate information on responsible mineral development, educating the public about the value of mining, providing information for our membership and the general public, and providing policymakers the information they need to understand the mining industry and monitor political and regulatory processes affecting mining in Alaska.
VOLUME 54 / NUMBER 5
MAY 2026
AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION BY THE ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION
Coeur Alaska Raises Funds for Juneau Students
John Shively Earns Prestigious Honor from NANA
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Celebrating Alaska Mining Day! PAGES 4-9
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A Message From The Executive Director
Dear AMA members, friends and mining family: Happy Alaska Mining Day! May is a time to be thankful to work in Alaska’s mining industry, surrounded by amazing people who stand together to grow and better our state. The next page will detail the origin of Alaska Mining Day, which in a nutshell, gives us a day each year to brag about our performance and benefits that result from mining activity from across the state. Designated by law in 2013, Alaska Mining Day is a day to reflect, and be proud. We were especially proud to stand together with our partners in all of Alaska’s business industries in Washington, D.C. last month, at the third annual Alaska on the Hill. 150 Alaskans who are part of 15 organizations from mining, fishing, forestry, oil and gas, tourism, Alaska Native Corporations, and other business groups descend- ed upon our nation’s Capital City and boy, did we make a splash. United, we presented a message that everyone back home already knows: we are a pillar of the nation’s prosperity, and we can bolster all sectors of the economy, while protecting the great state we love. I often remind literally anyone who will talk to me: in Alaska, we just do it better! It is not a story you will hear in traditional media. And certainly not in the Wild West of social media. Sometimes it seems we in the industry are the only ones who have anything good to say about mining. But I am here to tell you, that is no longer the case. There is a lot to be proud of about Alaska mining, and society is quickly realizing it. Alaska mining is among the most precise, mon- itored, careful, clean and responsible resource industries in the world. On Pages 7 and 9, you will see exact numbers that back up what makes Alaska mining vital. Please share them with anyone and everyone you meet! It is a fact: Alaska can produce the minerals and materials needed for every technology source planned for the future. That includes the key components of communication and military tools to keep America safe. Call it patriotism or national pride or duty, but the better we do mining in Alaska, the stronger our national economy is. And the less dependent we are on regimes that do not make good neighbors. In 2026, we celebrate our 87th anniversary as the Alaska Miners Association. Over those several lifetimes, we have been committed to Alaska miners and the critical role we play in our state and our nation. In this 87th year, you will see AMA and our members con- tinuing to travel to meet with those who make important decisions for our state and our nation, sharing everything that we simply do better in Alaska. We also look forward to another busy summer season of wonderful events in Alaska. You can see a list of these on Page 26. I hope to see you soon, and thank you for your continued support. It
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This is the official journal of the Alaska Miners Association, published eight times a year exclusively to our members. It is published in partnership with the Alaska Miners Association by Fireweed Strategies LLC, 4849 Potter Crest Circle, Anchorage, AK 99516.
We actively seek contributions from our members and the mining industry. Please email
A thousand factors impact your bottom line every day. Some in your control, some well beyond it. One thing you have the power to choose is who you work with, Our job is to keep you moving forward. Our machines are engineered with a "get it done" mentality and our After Sales Solutions are designed to keep you up and The tougher your job gets, the easier it is to see we're here when Kirk Currey Korey Day Anchorage Branch Anchorage Branch Sales Rep. Sales Rep. you need us most.
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ADVERTISING RATES AND NEWS TIPS For advertising information, or to submit news, story ideas and photos, contact Lee Leschper at 907-957-6025 or Lee.Leschper@FireweedStrategies.com. ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION STAFF Deantha Skibinski, Executive Director Jennifer Luiten, Membership & Fundraising Director Carin Currier, Projects & Communications Manager Darlene Strickland, Bookkeeper/Membership
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Challenges with noise and dust? For us it’s no problem.
Then-Gov. Sean Parnell signed the first Alaska Mining Day proclamation in 2013 recognizing the annual honor for Alaska miners first sponsored by Sen. Cathy Giessel. As we celebrate Alaska Mining Day, there is much to be thankful for ahead
A laska minerals are building Alaska and America, just as they have done for more than 100 years. Our minerals are enabling technology that has gone from construction of components for train steam engines to Star Trek-imagined devices! Alaska mines are winning awards for land reclamation innovation and skillful execution. Now, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is positioning as the national hub for critical minerals innovation, strengthening U.S. supply-chain security while expanding mineral production, high-wage jobs and state revenue. Our Department of Natural Resources and Depart- ment of Environmental Conservation continue to simultaneously support responsibly regulated mining activities. Our lands, water and air are protected. In short, we do it right! The jobs created allow Alaskans to live prosperously here with family supporting wages and professional careers, just as mining began to do over 100 years ago in our majestic, bountiful state. I’m grateful for all the people and companies that work in our state’s mining industry, contributing to thriving families, prosperous communities and a vigorous Alaska. — Sen. Cathy Giessel
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$92 million in state government revenues for services like education, highways and airport $240 million in royalty payments to Alaska Native Regional and Village Corporations across the state; totaling $3.6 billion since 1989
Alaska mining industry today ... $1.1 billion spent on goods and services with 500+ Alaska businesses $47 million in local tax revenues to support services like libraries, schools, road maintenance and public safety
Figures from September 2025 McKinley Research Group Report on Alaska Mining Industry
Alaska Mining Day ... through the years Usibelli Coal Mine hosted the Alaska Mining Day event in Healy in 2024. The day was an opportunity for AMA members and community members to get a firsthand look at the Interior coal mine's operations.
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Thanks to our sponsors, we teach Alaska youth about the vast natural resources and possibilities within our state, encouraging them to pursue careers at home and continue Alaska’s bright future.
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Alaska mining industry today ... 85 communities have mining industry employees $122,500 average annual wage paid to mining employees 12,400 total jobs supported
$1.2 billion in wages statewide $465 million spent in 2024 on exploration and development by Alaska’s mines and projects $13.4 billion spent on exploration and development since 1981 Figures from September 2025 McKinley Research Group Report on Alaska Mining Industry
Alaska Mining Day ... through the years The Governor's annual Alaska Mining Day proclamation has made its rounds across the state through the years!
GROWING OPPORTUNITY. ROOTED IN RESPECT.
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UAF students share design project at Pogo mine with Fairbanks Branch
A MA's Fairbanks Branch its breakfast meeting in late April. Students presented their senior design project on the Star deposit at Northern Star’s Pogo mine. UAF's mining engineering program is one of only 13 ABET accredited mining programs in the United States, and the only one of its kind in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Whereas the majority of larger schools focus mainly on coal, UAF's is a hard-rock focused program and uniquely positioned to prepare mining engineers for working in the Arctic. UAF gradu- ates quickly find employment or go on to pursue advanced degrees. Thank you to our Fairbanks Branch for welcoming future mining engineers who are set to do great things for our industry! welcomed UAF mining engi- neering program students to
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NANA honors John Shively for his 'exceptional dedication' to communities
J ohn Shively was honored recently by NANA as the recipient of the 2026 Richard A. Baenen Award. This award is a special recognition that honors the vital role of partnership in collective success in Alaska. According to NANA: "This award is presented to a non-shareholder who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to NANA, our region and our people through meaningful contributions and service. It celebrates individuals who, though not shareholders themselves, have aligned their work with our values and committed themselves to improving our communities. By recog- nizing these outstanding partners, we acknowledge that our strength is often amplified by those who stand alongside us, sharing a vision for a prosperous future. "NANA has presented this award to John in recognition of his profound commitment to our people and region. For more than five decades, John has dedicated his career to serving rural and Alaska Native communities. His journey began in 1965 as a VISTA volunteer and led to key leadership roles, including at the Alaska Federation
of Natives and as Commissioner of the Alaska Depart- ment of Natural Resources. "A defining part of his career was his work as a senior executive at NANA, where he was instrumental in planning and developing the Red Dog Mine. Guided by the principle that 'Development must serve the people who live closest to the land,' John helped to ensure the project was built on a foundation of Iñupiat priorities and cultural values. His advocacy for shareholder hire, training, and education created lasting economic oppor- tunities and reinforced his unwavering dedication to advancing the well-being of the Iñupiat people." At the NANA awards banquet, John expressed his gratitude to NANA and the people of our region. He also extended a special thanks to the Native Village of Kotze- bue Tribal Council and said, "They gave my wife and I the greatest gift anyone ever could when they allowed us to adopt our daughter, Natasha." Congratulations, John, from AMA, and thank you to NANA for recognizing a man who has left a lasting impact across the state and touched so many lives!
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Putnam honored for her service by UAF Lisa Putnam, Vice President of Public Relations for Usibelli Coal Mine, was honored with the Meritorious Service Award by UAF during its recent commencement ceremony. "This recognition isn't just about me. It reflects the strong connection between this university and our Fairbanks community, a relationship I'm proud to support and advocate for." Congratulations, Lisa, and all of our exceptional advocates who make our mining and higher education communities stronger!
Riedel welcomes UAF's Class of 2026 Meadow Riedel, external affairs manager for Kinross Alaska, took part in the May commencement ceremony at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Riedel, a 2000 graduate of UAF, was selected as the 2026 Alumni Commencent Representative to lead graduates in the meaningful tradition. Riedel served on the UAF Alumni Associ- ation board from 2021-24. Con- gratulations to Meadow and to all the new graduates ... especially the ones set to pursue a career in the Alaska mining industry!
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AMA members support Interior
Coeur Alaska raises over $34,000 for new endowment fund for Juneau students
T he Juneau Community Foundation is pleased to share that Coeur Alaska raised over $34,000 to support their Coeur Alaska Kensington Mine Juneau Schools Endowment Fund. The funds were raised through the third annual Coeur Alaska Kensington Mine Silent Auction fundraiser held this spring. The annual event brings together Coeur Alaska employees and contractors to support Juneau’s K-12 student activities through creativity, generosity and collaboration. The silent auction featured an impressive and diverse collection of handcrafted items created by talented Coeur Alaska employees, along with generous donations from community partners. Thanks to strong participation and community sup- port, the auction exceeded its fundraising goal, raising more than $17,000. With Coeur Alaska’s dollar-for-dollar company match, the total impact of the fundraiser will exceed $34,000. All proceeds directly benefit the Foun- dation’s Coeur Alaska Kensington Mine Juneau Schools Endowment Fund to support extracurricular programs
and enrichment opportunities for Juneau students. Cre- ated by Coeur Alaska in 2024 to establish a sustainable funding source for Juneau’s students, the fund made its first allocation in 2025, benefiting 28 Juneau School District extracurricular groups and activities. “Events like this demonstrate the incredible impact that employees, contractors, and local business partners can have when they come together for a shared cause,” said Amy Skilbred, Executive Director. “We are grateful to Coeur Alaska and everyone who contributes their time, talent, and generosity to support Juneau’s students.” The Community Foundation extends its appreciation to Coeur Alaska, its employees and the following com- panies for supporting this fundraiser: AGGPRO, Alaska Aggregate Products, Alaska Miners Association, Alaska Seaplanes, Alaska Marine Lines, Capital Embroidery, Coastal Helicopters, Dawson Construction, Goldbelt, Inc., Jennmar, Mader, NC Machinery, Northwest Mine Supply, RAM Enterprise, Resource Development Council, Sand- vik, Thyssen Mining, Inc. and Timberline Drilling.
science fair AMA members including Naomi Mitchell and Dave "Zoom" Szumigala were in attendance in March for the Interior Alaska Science Fair at the Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts in Fairbanks, helping judge entries and mentor students. Thank you to the Alaska mines including Usibelli Coal Mine and Kinross Alaska that also helped sup- port the event and community awards!
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Graphite Creek permitting on track with targeted decision by September COURTESY OF GRAPHITE ONE
Ambler Metals submits federal permitting application for Arctic project COURTESY OF AMBLER METALS
G raphite One Inc., a developer of a complete U.S.- based advanced graphite supply chain, provided an update in late April on the permitting progress of its flagship Graphite Creek Project under the FAST-41 federal permitting program. The Graphite Creek Project — planned as an open-pit graphite mine and associated mineral processing plant located approximately 37 miles north of Nome — was accepted as a FAST-41 “covered project” on June 2, 2025, becoming the first Alaska mining project to be listed on the FAST-41 Federal Permitting Dashboard. Following the 60-day Coordinated Project Plan (“CPP”) process, the detailed permitting timetable was publicly posted on August 5, 2025. The CPP established a clear 13.5-month schedule for the required federal environmental reviews and autho- rizations, with a projected completion date of Sept. 29, 2026.
A mbler Metals announced April 20 that it has sub- mitted an application for a Clean Water Act section 404 permit to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, thereby initiating federal permitting to build and operate the Arctic mining project. Ambler Metals also plans to request an eligibility review for coverage under the program established by Title 41 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41) which is administered by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (FPISC). FAST-41 coverage would provide a comprehensive, integrated permitting timetable, bring greater transparency and allow for dispute resolution. Discovered in the 1970s, Arctic is one of the world’s high- est-grade copper deposits with an estimated grade of 5% copper equivalent. The deposit is 0.4 square miles and holds an estimated 46.7 million tons of probable mineral reserves, including copper, lead, zinc, gold and silver. “Alaska has a very strong track record of responsible resource development while protecting the surrounding
As of the latest dashboard update, the project remains “in progress” under the leadership of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Company continues to advance all required federal reviews on schedule, with full transparency provided to the public via the Federal Permitting Dashboard. “FAST-41 has delivered exactly what it was designed to do — improved timeliness, predictability, and account- ability across multiple federal agencies without chang- ing any environmental or regulatory standards,” said Anthony Huston, President and CEO of Graphite One. “By establishing a coordinated, publicly posted time- table and bringing all agencies together early, FAST-41 is accelerating our ability to develop America’s largest graphite deposit and establish a secure, domestic supply chain for lithium-ion battery anode materials and other critical graphite products across a range of technology sectors.”
communities and wildlife,” said Kaleb Froehlich, Ambler Metals Managing Director. “We’re looking forward to working closely with the federal government, the State of Alaska, the Northwest Arctic Borough, and the com- munities in the project area to advance the Arctic proj- ect which will help power the nation’s economy, con- tribute to our national security and bring much-needed jobs and economic growth to Alaska, particularly to nearby villages. Ambler Metals continues to affirm that any future mining in the Upper Kobuk must have lasting support from the people who live there, and as we move through the permitting process, we will con- tinue to build this trust and keep regional stakeholders informed at every stage of the process.” Ambler Metals has an established partnership with NANA, known as the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects (UKMP), to explore mining in the area. Development of the Arctic deposit would lead to an estimated 1,000 jobs in both construction and operations, $407 million in State revenue, and $300 million in labor income.
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H oward Adams spent a lifetime digging into the earth and tinkering under the hood — but what he really uncovered was a life full of stories, laughter and a legacy that’s anything but buried. After a short battle with a variety of compounding health issues, on Wednesday, April 1, our beloved mountain man became part of the strata — yet remains a gem in all our memories. From a young age, Howard — or Joe(y), as he was known through childhood and college — was never one to sit still. His work ethic took shape early, delivering newspa- pers in the quiet hours before dawn. Years of paper routes led to his first great love: a 1957 grey convertible Chevy. That ’57 Chevy sparked a lifelong passion for muscle and classic cars. If you knew Howard, you knew his classic car enthusiasm was contagious — he could happily talk your ear off about his latest project or prized find. His most treasured ride was his 1968 Dodge Charger, once the family car and later lovingly restored in retirement. Wheth- er cruising around town or showing it off at Reno’s Hot August Nights, it was a reflection of his hands-on spirit. Howard had a mechanical mind — whether rebuilding engines, outfitting Hard Rock Wheels trucks, or working in the field, his hands and mind were always in sync. Geology proved to be the perfect fit. It fed his curiosity, challenged his problem-solving skills, and gave him a life outdoors that truly grounded him. With a remarkable 44-year career in geology augmented by 42 years building Hard Rock Wheels, Howard lived a life that was nothing short of rock solid. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Kent State University in 1969 — putting himself through school by moving furniture — he began a journey that would take him across mines, mountains, and continents. From his early days at Homestake Mine in South Dakota, to roles in Washington, Montana and Idaho (Inspiration Development), Nevada (Battle Mountain, Turquoise Ridge and Bald Mountain), and Alaska (Union Carbide & Taiga Ventures), his career was rich with adventure and dis- covery. Like many geologists, his work also took him to international borders to include Mexico and Myanmar. But it was in Alaska where inspiration struck bedrock. In 1984, while working at Taiga Ventures in Fairbanks, recognizing the rugged demands of the mining industry, he transformed a simple F-150 into an off-road solution — launching Hard Rock Wheels. What began as a single cus- tomized truck grew into a thriving business that continues to roll forward today, carried on by family in his honor. Even when the geology field hit a fault line in the late ’80s, Howard never stayed sedentary for long. He returned to Ohio for a stint to work alongside his father at Adams Brick Howard Joseph Adams July 6, 1943 – April 1, 2026 IN MEMORIAM
Howard and the late Mike Tolbert of Taiga Ventures
& Stone before ultimately settling in Reno in 1989, where his career continued to evolve. His final projects included Bald Mountain and Turquoise Ridge, where he “retired” in 2013 from Barrick — though, like any true geologist, he simply shifted layers rather than stopping altogether. In later years, he focused on growing Hard Rock Wheels and restoring his beloved ’68 Charger — proof that his drive and passion never eroded. Howard was a man of strength, depth and quiet generos- ity. A husband, father, grandfather, and brother he loved traveling — especially to national parks and destinations abroad — though he could also be persuaded into family trips to Disneyland and Disney World. He showed up for life’s important moments, attending graduations and cherishing time with his grandchildren, including a special summer spent mostly outdoors together with his grand- son during COVID in 2020. Though he was larger than life in presence, those who knew him best understood his softer side — steadfast, kind, and always there when it mattered most. He didn’t know a stranger and treated everyone with genuine respect, often turning acquaintanc- es into lifelong friends. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sandi Adams; his daughters, Teri Whitmore (Michael) and Niki Adams; his grandchildren, Kiersten, Kimberly, Katherine (Teri), and Chase (Niki); and Daisy, his shared loyal cattle dog–border collie companion. He also has four sisters, Rita, Linda, Susie and Marsha and one brother, Steve, who all reside in Ohio. Please join us as we celebrate a life well-lived — full of grit, heart and a legacy that will stand the test of time. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, May 17 from 1-4 p.m., followed by Famous Dave’s barbecue catering. The event will be hosted at the Western Heritage Interpretive Center at Bartley Ranch Regional Park, 6000 Bartley Ranch Road, Reno, Nev., 89511. Please RSVP by Thursday, May 14 with your name and number of guests through one of the following methods: https://evite.me/ZTCzvptsXy; hardrockwheels@yahoo.com; or call 775-852-2622 (feel free to leave a voicemail). While Howard knew rocks inside and out, it was his humor, grit, character and heart that made him a true gem to all who knew him. Join us as we honor a man who truly left his mark — layer by layer — on the world he loved.
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AMA Corporate Members
Cyr Drilling USA Inc. Dawson City Chamber of Commerce Delta P Pump a Beckwith & Kuffel Company Denali Industrial Supply Desert Air Alaska DGI Geoscience Dorsey & Whitney LLP DOWL DXP Alaska Pump & Supply Eastern Oregon Mining Association Energy Laboratories Inc. Ensero Solutions Equity Exploration Consultants Ltd. ERM ESI Alaska ESS Support Services Worldwide Evergreen Environmental Lining Company LLC Everts Air Cargo Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation
ISCO Pipe JCM Industries Juneau Economic Development Council Kiewit Mining Group Klondike Placer Miners' Association Knight Piesold & Company Kuna Engineering Lignite Energy Council Loenbro Madison Lumber & Hardware Inc. Mascott Equipment Matanuska Susitna Borough Matanuska Telecom Association Matson MDF Global MES Mining Mitsubishi Materials USA Corp Modern Machinery Co. Montana Mining Association More Core Diamond Drilling Services Ltd. Motion & Flow Control Products Motion Industries MSI Communications National Mining Association NC Machinery
Republic Services Resource Development Council
Royal Gold Inc. SALA Medical Samson Tug & Barge Sandvik
Please support and thank these companies who have renewed their support and corporate membership in AMA. Their continued support makes possible all the work we do in and for the mining industry.
PIONEER/HIGH GRADE Construction Machinery Industrial LLC Hecla Greens Creek Mining Company PRODUCERS Coeur Alaska - Kensington Mine Contango Silver & Gold, Inc. Kinross Alaska NANA Regional Corp Northern Star Resources - Pogo Mine Ruen Drilling Inc. Usibelli Coal Mine Inc. MINERS AIDEA Calista Corporation Constantine Mining LLC Donlin Gold LLC Lynden NovaGold Resources Inc. Oxford Assaying & Refining Corp. Pebble Limited Partnership RESPEC Sundance Mining Group, LLC
Orica USA Inc. PolarX Limited
American Exploration & Mining Association Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Anchorage Sand & Gravel Inc. Arcticom LLC, a BSNC Company ARG Industrial Arizona Mining Association ASRC Energy Services Associated General Contractors of Alaska Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia Aurora Geosciences (Alaska) Ltd. Technical Center Backcountry EMS Barr Engineering Co. BDO USA Beacon Occupational Health and Safety Services Inc. Belzona Technology Northwest Automatic Welding & Supply AVTEC - Alaska Vocational
Schaeffer Specialized Lubricants SECON/Southeast Roadbuilders Shoreside Petroleum Inc. SKAPS Industries SLR International Corporation SMS Equipment Inc. Society For Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration Soloy Helicopters LLC Solvest, Inc. Sourdough Express Southeast Conference SRK Consulting Stantec Consulting Inc. State Fire Stoel Rives LLP Storm Exploration LLC
Silver 47 South32
Tectonic Metals Inc. Trilogy Metals, Inc. U.S. GoldMining Inc United States Antimony Corporation
BUSINESS MEMBERS 3-Tier Alaska A & D Drilling LLC Acrow Corporation of America (Acrow Bridge)
ACZ Laboratories, Inc. Advanced Supply Chain International LLC Agnico Eagle Airgas USA, LLC
Sullivan Water Wells T & J Enterprises Inc. TDL Staffing Inc. TDM Drilling LLC Temsco Helicopters Inc. The Alliance The Silver Institute Thyssen Mining Inc. TOTE LLC Tyler Rental Inc. Tyree Oil Ucore Rare Metals Inc. Udelhoven Oilfield System Services University Redi-Mix Utah Mining Association Valdez Creek Mining
Fairweather LLC Far North Supply Ferguson Industrial First Things First Alaska Foundation
Alaska Aggregate Products LLC Alaska Air Carriers Association Alaska Airlines Alaska Business Alaska Chamber Alaska Drilling and Completions Alaska Forest Association Alaska Garden & Pet Supply, Inc. Alaska Industrial Hardware Inc Alaska International Business Center Alaska Minerals Inc. Alaska Mining & Diving Supply, Inc. Alaska Motorsports and Equipment Alaska Oil and Gas Association Alaska Power & Telephone Alaska Resource Education Alaska Rock Products Association Alaska Roteq Alaska Steel Co. Alaska Trucking Association
NES Fircroft/ Bedrock PCL Nevada Mining Association
Benthic GeoScience, Inc Better In Our Back Yard Big Ray's Alaska Inc. Black Gold Transport Boart Longyear Bobcat of Juneau
Frontier Supply Company GBA Assaying & Refining Global External Grainger Grande Portage Resources Ltd. Graymont Great Basin Industrial, LLC Great Northwest Inc. Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce Greenstone Station Inc HDR Heli-Dunn Horst Expediting & Remote Hy-Tech Drilling USA Inc. Idaho Mining Association IMA Financial Group IMDEX Industrial Pumps of Alaska Institute of Northern Engineering Integrity Environmental Operations Inc. Hyak Mining Co.
New Mexico Mining Association NewFields Mining Design and Technical Services North Star Terminal & Stevedore Co. LLC Northern Industrial Training, LLC (Anchorage) Northern Permafrost Consulting Northern Sonic Alaska, Inc. Northwest Mine Supply Northwest Pump Northwest Territories & Nunavut Chamber of Mines P & C Recruiting and H.R. Perkins Coie LLP Petro Marine Services Pilot & Index Mining Solutions Piton Exploration LLC Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada
Taiga Mining Company Tower Hill Mines Inc.
Boreal Environmental Services Brice Equipment - Industrial Division CalCIMA CarWil LLC Chamber of Mines of Eastern British Columbia Charles Tennant and Company Coastal Helicopters Colorado Mining Association Commonwealth North CONAM Construction Company Consumer Energy Alliance ControlChem West Cruise Lines International Alaska Cummins Sales & Service Cyclone Services
EXPLORERS Alaska Energy Metals Alaska Frontier Constructors Inc. Alaska Railroad Corporation Alaska Silver Ambler Metals LLC Chugach Alaska Corporation ConocoPhillips Alaska Inc. Doyon, Ltd Falcon Copper Corp. Freegold Ventures Limited GCI Business Graphite One Inc. NMS Nova Minerals Limited Nuna Geologic Services LLC
VEGA Americas Visit Anchorage Weir Minerals
Wells Fargo Bank Alaska Women's Mining Coalition Woodland Ridge Tiny Home Crafters WSP USA Inc. Wyoming Mining Association Yukon Chamber of Mines Zonge International Inc
Aleut Corporation Alloy Drilling LLC ALS Minerals American Coal Council
Redpath USA Corporation Remote Site Services Inc.
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MAY 2026 | WWW.ALASKAMINERS.ORG
Thank you to all the AMA corporate and individual members who joined or renewed their membership to the association in February. You make AMA possible! New and Renewing Members
Pelham Jackson Jesse James Bryan Johnson
Mu Li Miles Macdonald Neil & Charity MacKinnon
Josh Parks Shaun Patterson Michelle Pearson Willa Perlmutter Chloe Peterson Larry Peterson Jessica Pickett
Craig Smith Tim Smith Sam Soloy Adrienne Stolpe Cole Sullivan Walt Thomson Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse Thomas Veseth Scott & Renetta Villella Bill Vivlamore Janice Walker Robert & Renae Wall Terry Waschke George Whiteley Sidney Wood Alina Wyatt Hollie Wynne Frank & Mary Yates Jesse Billmeier & Betsy Young Varina Zinno
Gregory Johnson Randy Johnson Rosita Johnson Kerry & Gwyneth Jones Just-Jeff Steve Kemble Chris Kennedy Steve Kikendall Russell Kirkham Anna Kohl Noelle Kompkoff Ray & Lee Ann Kreig John Lamborn Kelly Lantz Dave Larimer Dave & Vanessa Larimer
Daniel Mahlberg Sally Marinucci Francis Marley Sam Mazzeo Lara McClintock Heather McClung Mac Meiners John Miscovich Tyler Mitchell Houston Morris William Morris Kyle Moselle Avadh Nagaralawala Graham Neale
Curtis Christensen John Cioffoletti James Clark James Cloud Ryan Cooper Cal Craig Lee Cruise Carolyn Curley Craig & Gia Currier Brad Deweese Chris Dillingham Jon W Dufendach Jim Duffield Desmond Duffy William P Dunlevy Darrin Edson John Ellsworth Mark Farrar Liam Ferguson Melissa Fiorina Eric Fjelstad Stanley & Sally Foo Veronica Friend Kaleb Froehlich Terri Froese Evan Gearity Bill Gottmeier Todd Greimann Karl Greninger Zach Grimac Kaylen Hall Maureen Hall Ralph D Hamm Philip Hanke Raesha Hartz Timothy Hayes Chuck Heath Lucas Hile Peter Hjellen Kaye Holowatch Seth Hooper Steven Howell Jeremy Huffmann Sarah Ingram
CORPORATIONS A & D Drilling LLC Advanced Supply Chain International LLC Alaska Frontier Constructors Inc. Ambler Metals LLC ARG Industrial Aurora Geosciences (Alaska) Ltd. Backcountry EMS Black Gold Transport Brice Equipment - Industrial Division Calista Corporation
PROFESSIONALS Marisa Acosta Sam Amato Melissa Arnold Samuel Billin Lena Brommeland James Dickey Brianna Force Peter Frantz Kirsten Fristad Michael Galicki Sonia Henrick Patrick McCann Gabe Moses Harold J Noyes Mike & Sarah Satre Jordan Scheremeta Robert Siedman James Spriggs Jusdi Warner
Carl Portman John Proffett Kei Quinn
Robert Ragar Jim Robinson Jim Robinson Michael Robinson Dwayn Ross David Ruf Bill Schnabel Dominic Shallies Patrick Shanley Dennis Shepard Ernie Siemoneit
Case Nelson Dustin Olson John Onofrey Kurt Parkan
Chugach Alaska Corporation Contango Silver & Gold, Inc. ControlChem West
Vanessa Larimer Charles Layman
Cummins Sales & Service Denali Industrial Supply Equity Exploration Consultants Ltd.
Not yet a member of the Alaska Miners Association? Or have not yet renewed your membership? Renew today so you don’t miss a single issue of The Alaska Miner or the 2026 Alaska Miners Handbook and Service Directory, available only to AMA members.
Everts Air Cargo Fairweather LLC Ferguson Industrial Frontier Supply Company Greenstone Station Inc HDR Hyak Mining Co.
MAKING FUEL, FREIGHT & PASSENGER TRANSPORT EASY THROUGHOUT SOUTHERN SOUTHEAST ALASKA.
INDIVIDUALS Kevin Adler Peter Andersen Michael A Belowich Brian Benson Frank Bergstrom Curtis Bernard George Merritt & Roberta Berry Mike Bethe Eleanor Black Jack Blackwell Jennifer & Nikolai Bolshakoff Steven & Marilyn Borell
Hy-Tech Drilling USA Inc. Industrial Pumps of Alaska Madison Lumber & Hardware Inc. Northern Sonic Alaska, Inc. Northwest Pump Nuna Geologic Services LLC Perkins Coie LLP Sullivan Water Wells TDL Staffing Inc. TOTE LLC Tyler Rental Inc.
Call or email Jennifer Luiten, Membership and Fundraising Director at 907-270-9232; jennifer@AlaskaMiners.org.
Solutions Beyond Expectations.
North American Graphite Poised to become the top North American producer of artificial and natural anode active materials, integrated with the largest natural graphite resource in the United States
Wescott Bott Robert Boyle Alba Brice Bonnie Broman Jason Brune Steve Buckley Ryan Burnham David Butherus Allegra Cairns Elizabeth Cannon
907-228-7783
U.S. GoldMining Inc Valdez Creek Mining Wells Fargo Bank Alaska OPERATORS Douglas & Kathleen Clark David T & Kate Johnson John Khoury John Tack
7559 N Tongass Highway | Ketchikan, Alaska 99901 www.remotemadeeasy.com
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THE JOURNAL - AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION BY THE ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION
MAY 2026 | WWW.ALASKAMINERS.ORG
On the Horizon AMA Membership Calendar
Aug. 4, 2026 AMA's 87th Anniversary
GET THE MOST FOR YOUR GOLD!
Sept. 22-24, 2026 Southeast Conference Annual Meeting, Ketchikan
Oct. 14-16, 2026 Alaska Chamber Alaska Business Summit, Girdwood
May 10, 2026 Alaska Mining Day
June 20-21, 2026 Juneau Gold Rush Days
juneaugoldrushdays.com
May 19-21, 2026 Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, Anchorage
June 17-19, 2026 American Exploration & Mining Association Summer Summit, Spokane, Wash.
alaskasustainableenergy.com
www.miningamerica.org
We need your safety submissions!
July 23-26, 2026 Southeast Alaska State Fair, Haines
We’d like to include ongoing safety achievements and milestones, safety tips, safety shares, etc. in this Rock Talk and other AMA publications. Please share those, as they cross your desk/ mind, with carin@alaskaminers.org
Nov. 2-5, 2026 AMA Annual Convention, Dena’ina Center, Anchorage
seakfair.org
AMA STATEWIDE BRANCH MEETINGS ARE ON ZOOM: Join us online at 9 a.m. for statewide Branch Meetings. All members and guests are welcome to participate!
www.oxfordmetals.com 1.907.561.5237
Next Statewide Zooms: May 8, May 22
Visit www.alaskaminers.org/ama-member-branches for more information
In-Person Branch Meeting Schedules will be posted on the AMA website under Branch Meetings. We look forward to seeing everyone in person!
PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Anchorage, AL Permit #537
Alaska Miners Association 121 W Fireweed Ln. Ste. 120 Anchorage, Alaska 99503
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