President’s Message From Bartly Kleven
On Alaska Mining Day, we celebrate our efforts
“Today, almost 10,000 Alaskans work in mining, earning an average wage of more than $115,000 a year — even more than three years ago.”
H appy Mining Day 2022! As we gather in Fairbanks and celebrate Alaska Mining Day on May 10, I am reminded again how thankful I am to work in this amazing industry. On the Mining Day Celebration on May 10, 2019 Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued an Executive Proclamation. I have summarized it here: “Mining was the primary driving force for early development of Alaska and has continued to play a vital role in our economy. From the Alaska Natives who historically mined and traded jade to today’s mining professionals who produce rare- earth critical minerals for advanced-technology products, mining has provided precious resources and desirable jobs. “A secondary result of mining has been the establishment of infrastructure including roads, airports, and harbors; power generation and transmission systems and telecommunications. On May 10, we recognize the importance of the mining industry and the individuals who played a role in the development of the state and the ongoing contribution to the economy of Alaska.” Since then, there have been many world events that bring mining into even sharper focus: n Regulatory standards have only increased since 2019 — and Alaska mining continues to be the most precise, monitored, careful, clean, and responsible mining in the world. n Mining payed millions of dollars annually to state and local governments three years ago — and now we pay even more.
n Today, almost 10,000 Alaskans work in mining, earning an average wage of more than $115,000 a year — even more than three years ago. There has been an increased focus on reducing greenhouse gas — Alaska can produce the critical minerals needed for every renewable technology source planned for the future. And, sadly, we are buying more energy and critical minerals from countries who do not share our values of basic human rights and environmental protection. Regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum this should be a call to action. That energy and those minerals are available in abundance in Alaska where we protect our workforce and environment and where we contribute to our communities. While we may not hear about it in the traditional media, the truth is, there is a lot to be proud of about mining and mining in Alaska, in particular. In this issue of our magazine read Bob Loeffler’s research into both the economic power and future potential for Alaska mining — and the way we give back to our state by a factor of 10.We do mining better than anyone in the world. Cleaner. Safer. With respect for the land and culture and rights of those upon whose land we mine. Bartly Kleven became president of the Alaska Miners As- sociation in November. See Page 10 for a profile on Bartly and her perspective on Alaska mining and her goals for AMA.
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The Alaska Miner
Spring 2022
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