President’s Message From Bartly Kleven
Welcome to another season, and thank you
"The mining industry’s ability to reduce emissions and diversify its energy supply will have a large impact on our ability to attract capital for exploration and mine development." W elcome to spring and a productive and safe summer season. And, also in advance, Happy Mining Day 2023!
forward for our way of life. Since the first Mining Day celebration, there have been many global events that bring min- ing into even sharper focus for a variety of reasons, including: Regulatory standards, which have only increased each year — and Alaska mining continues to be the most precise, monitored, careful, clean and responsible mining in the world; Mining has provided millions of dollars an- nually to state and local governments, a figure which also continues to increase each year; Today, roughly 10,000 Alaskans work in mining, earning an average wage of more than six figures annually, again another steady and positive increase. There also has been an increased focus on reducing greenhouse gas, and Alaska can produce the critical minerals needed for every renewable technology source planned for the future by this and successive administrations. By now you know, energy transition will require an increase in critical mineral mining. Alaska will be at the forefront of this increase if the United States wants to ensure a secure supply. Many of these minerals are mined in undeveloped countries by the Chinese.
On the Mining Day celebration on May 10, 2019, Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued an Executive Proclamation to mark the celebration honoring our vital industry. In summary: “Mining was the primary driv- ing 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 ad- vanced-technology products, mining has provided precious resources and desirable jobs. A secondary result of mining has been the establishment of in- frastructure including roads, airports, and harbors; power generation and transmission systems and telecommunications." On May 10 — and in all reality, every day — we recognize the importance of the mining industry and the individuals who have played a role in the development of the state and the ongoing contribution to the overall economy of Alaska. We also highlight the current and future miners of Alaska who will help carry the torch
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The Alaska Miner
Spring 2023
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