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RES 0 U R C E. B I B L I 0 GRAPH Y
SUSITNA RIVER BASIN
OCTOBER 1977
State of Alaska
Department of Natural Resources
Planning & Research Section
In Cooperation
With the U.S. Department
Of Aqriculture
(Soi I Conservation Service, Forest Service, Economic Research Service)
This project was supported by federal Alaska
Rivers Cooperative Studies funds (P.L. 83-566)
Granted to the State of Alaska by the U.S. Department
of Agriculture
ARLIS
Alaska Resources
Library & Infonnatton Servtces
Anchorage, Alaska
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PREFACE
This resource bibliography is in partial fulfillment of a Cooperative
Agreement between the State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources
and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soi I Conservation Service dated
September 30, 1977. The Cooperative Agreement (Section A-4) states·that
the Department shal I collect alI resource data on the Susitna Basin
Cooperative Study area and provide readable copies and/or annotations of
alI data to the Service by January I, 1978. The resource bibliography
has been prepared directly for use in the cooperative study on the
Susitna River Basin, the first in a series of federally funded Alaska
Rivers Cooperative Studies.
Research and preparation work for this document began in June 1977 and
was completed September 1977.
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Sections
I.
II.
II I •
IV.
V.
VI •
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
')
INTRODUCTION &
Study Area ~~ap
GEOLOGY
HYDROLOGY
SOILS
VEGETATION
FISH & WILDLIFE
SUSITNA RIVER BASIN
RESOURCE BIBLIOGRAPHY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUMMARY
RECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY
LAND USE & LAND STATUS
CLIMATE
MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
fage
1
7
8
105
184
201
217
;c
239
269
287
304
introduction
& summary
Sect ion I
··']
1_)
Purpose
The purpose of this resource bib I iography is to collect and describe
existing published information, and to annotate ongoing projects relevant
to natural resources in the Susitna Basin. The collection of information
wi I I serve as a reference point for future data inventory in the Susitna
area and as a foundation tool for planning and resource management by
state, ·borough, local and federal agencies. Resource areas and geographic
areas lacking data suitable for management and planning needs are identified
here and may be addressed by future field investigations. The result:
data fulfi II ing planning needs rather than duplicating information.
The bibliography is a direct product of the USDA-DNR Cooperative Study
of the Susitna River Basin, the first in a series of federally funded
projects cal led Alaska River Cooperative Studies. Input on bibliography
form and content has been provided by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Planning Department. Publications collected by this effort are applicable
to the Borough Comprehensive Plan update, and wi I I be shared with the
Borough Planning Department.
Approach
To prepare this document, resource I ibraries, bibliographic retrieval
systems, federal, state and local government personnel and I ibraries and
private business were. contacted and used. More detailed accounts of
sources are given in subsequent pages.
Organization
Bib I iographic entires are arranged by resource category. These categories
include (in order of priority): geology, hydrology, soi Is, vegetation,
fish & wildlife, recreation & archaeology, land use & land status,
climate and miscellaneous references. Within resource categories,
annotations are broken down according to whether they are pub I ished
information (reports or maps), or ongoing programs. In certain cases,
as for geology and hydrology, a further breakdown has been made to
group similar kinds of published reports. Examples of annotated entires
of: I) pub I ished information, and 2) ongoing programs follow.
DESCRIPTIVE EXAMPLE: Published Information (Report or Map)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Title of pub I ication is underlined. Author; agency,
(date), (number of pages, illustrations).
The geographic area description locates the research,
first in one or more of the six State priority areas,
and/or four river sub-basins. Then specific sites within
the region may be referenced for further clarification.
For example, "State priority area I; Wi I low." (See Study
Area map for clarification.)
Each publication is assigned a I, 2, or 3 level of interest
based on a varying set of criteria and depending upon the
resource category. Entries are rated according to the
interest and relevancy of the source to regional planning
concerns. Those items ranking first (I) are thought to
be of primary interest. Those items ranking second (2)
are judged to be of general, indirect interest. Those
items ranking third (3) are thought to be of lesser
interest for purposes of regional planning. The level of
interest category in not intended as judgement of the
quality of sources. Specific criteria for interest level
ratings are given in the introduction to each resource
subject. References are rated individually, or as they
reI ate to a I I data co I I ected on one category. (So i Is
data was not rated against climate information, for
examp I e.)
Titles of alI relevant maps are I isted with scales included.
Map descriptions are given if necessary.
Relevant tables are I isted or summarized.
The description, or explanatory annotation, summarizes
the contents of the publication, and sometimes gives
critical evaluation of the report's uti I ity to regional
planning.
Availability: Thisexplains restrictions of data availability. If
the avai labi I ity is not cited, at least one copy of the
referenced pub I ication has been collected, and is contained
in a special "Susitna Collection" shared by the USDA Soi I
Conservation Service and State of Alaska Department of
Natural Resources. When avai labi I ity is cited, copies of
documents may be obtained as indicated.
2
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Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Maps:
Tables:
Status:
Duration:
J
DESCRIPTIVE EXAMPLE: Ongoing Pro.ject
Project identification, (not necessarily the formal
project name) is I isted.
Name, address and phone number of person to contact
for further information is indicated.
The geographic area description locates the research,
first in one or more of the six State priority areas,
and/or four river sub-basins. Then specific sites within
the region may be referenced for further clarification of
location. For example, "State priority area: Wi I low."
(See Study Area map for clarification.)
A short explanation of intent, scope methodology and
expected results of the project is given.
Relevant maps and their scales are listed.
Relevant tables are listed and explained if necessary.
The project progress to date is given.
The anticJpated completion date or length of study is
given.
3
Summary of Findings
A large quantity of resource information has been pub I ished for the
Susitna River Basin area; enough references are avai !able to fi I I volumes
twice this size. An attempt to compile alI this information however,
wi I I show it to be of I imited use to comprehensive regional planning.
Information has been collected at generalized or inconsistent scales and
at different levels of detai I. In some cases it has been continually
updated; in other cases it has never been updated. Areas of greatest
historical concern have been covered most intensively, areas of future
concern have often been given little comprehensive coverage. The lack
of comprehensive data coverage is not unique to the Susitna River Basin
area. Because the Susitna area is in great need of regional planning
due to recent growth and resource development activity, many attempts
(including the Susitna Cooperative Study) wi I I be made at strengthening
the data base --at fi I I ing gaps and updating old information to make
sound regional planning possible. Further studies and inventory are
certainly necessary. A number of recently completed studies or ongoing
projects wi I I fi I I some data voids by providing information such as
surficial geology maps, tectonic studies, water chemistry sampling,
wildlife inventories, spawning areas, and new soi I surveys. Certain
data voids wi II remain as wi II the need for analysis and evaluation of
new data.
Information is notably inadequate for regional floodplain delineation;
determination of extent, thickness and location of aquifers; specific
critical habitat (including seasonal or migrational route habitat);
occurrence of subsurface permafrost and comprehensive vegetative inventory.
Detailed summaries of the adequacy of existing information for each
resource precede the resource sections. A brief summary of adequacies
and/or inadequacies, revealed by the data search, is given below by
resource subject.
Geology -This section references over 100 reports, maps, or ongoing
projects on earth sciences in or near the Susitna River Basin published
within the last 25 years. Approximately one third of the pub I ished
information is considered of primary interest (level I) because of its
useful lness; identifying such factors as depth to bedrock, areas of
instabi I ity and faults, surficial features, land forms, land contours,
mineral deposits, and fossi I fuels. The quantity of information in the
mineralogy and economic geology subsections suggests the emphasis by
private and government entities on identifying and evaluating energy and
mineral resources. (No attempt was made to include exploration activities
of the private business sector in this document.)
4
Hydrology - A diversity of hydrologic-related data exists and several
extraordinary water-related studies are underway in the Susitna River
Basin. The following are of particular importance and their progress
should be monitored:
-The Southcentral Alaska Water Resources (Level B) Study.
-Upper Susitna River Hydroelectric Development Project.
Studies authorized by the Federal Water Pollution Control Act,
(Public Law 92-500, Section 201, 208, and 303E Studies).
-Floodplain Information Studies.
Soi Is-Extensive soi I surveys are underway or planned in priority areas
of the Susitna Basin, (including the Wi I low capital site). These and
other Soil Conservation Service projects wil I supplement existing soi I
surveys of the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys.
Vegetation -Inadequate information exists at a regional level on
detailed vegetation and forestry resources. Ongoing and planned
application of remote sensing techniques and high altitude photography
may assist in providing additional necessary information. Agricultural
potential and commercial timber have been analyzed but not at a consistent
level of detail adequate for alI land management and land classification
decisions.
Wildlife and Fish -Quantifying fish and wildlife information in a
bibliographic format was difficult. Data has been collected for many
years on fish and game harvests in Alaska. Available information
includes fish escapement studies, spawning areas, wildlife inventories
at generalized scales, water chemistry, habitat studies and migration
routes. There is a pressing need for data at a scale larger than 1:250,000,
particularly for summer habitat and activity information, and for studies
on sma I I game.
Recreation & Archaeology ~ Most information on existing parks or land
areas planned for inclusion in the State park system is of uniform
scale. Archaeological investigations at various locations within the
Sustina River Basin have been conducted and more field studies are being
initiated as development pressures increase in the area. One important
need is to identify potential recreation areas in order to keep pace
with val ley population pressure.
Land Use & Land Status -Little effort was directed toward collection of
land use and land status information, yet products discovered while
researching other resource topics are included in the bibliography. The
land status and land use section should not be considered an adequate
survey of area land use-related studies, however. The work tasks underway
Cas part of the Susitna Cooperative Study) by Alaska Department of
Natural Resources CDNR) address existing land use and land status in
more detai I than any previous studies.
5
The first is a cultural land use mopping project uti I izing aerial photographs -~~
and field verification. The second is a land status mapping project _ }
showing land ownership patterns and surface and subsurface uses.
Climate-A substantial amount of climatic information is avai !able for
the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys. Climatic data is constantly being
compiled and monitored, but I ittle work has been done, thus far to map
area conditions, e.g. wind direction, isotherms, inversion areas, etc.
Miscellaneous References-Other bibliographies and references sources
discovered and used in the course of this regional information search
are included in this section. These sources may prove useful in update
of this bib I iography, or for other resource studies. A collection of
miscellaneous but relevant information that did not fit the subject
categories established, or the format of the bib I iography, is also
included here. Socio-economic information for example, was not included
as a separate resource subject because the data search was focussed on
natural resources, but a few socio-economic references were discovered
and are therefore included in this section. Finally, a summary of
aerial photography avai !able fr-om a pr-ivate business finn is noted in
this section.
As evidenced from the above qualifications, this document does not
provide a complete I isting of~ reports, maps and projects ever completed
or underway within the Susitna River Basin region. It is however, the
most comprehensive resource bib I iography of the area to date. The
intention is for this document to be continually updated, augmented and
strengthened to become more useful in the future.
6
SUSITNA RIVER BASIN
COOPERATIVE STUDY
ALASKA
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Section II
CONTENTS:
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY
II. INDEX
I I I. CROSS INDEX
IV. PUBLISHED INFORMATION
A. Coal Studies
B. Mineralogy
C. Geochemistry
D. Glacial Geology
E. Paleontology
F. Stratigraphy
V. MAPS
A. Geochemical
B. Geophysical
C. Reconnaissance Geology
D. Mineral Resources
VI. ONGOING PROJECTS
8
GEOLOGY
9
12
17
18
18
41
54
60
63
66
74
74
77
81
88
96
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY
_)
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: GEOLOGY
The subject of geology, even for a defined geographic area, is quite
complex. Due to the volume and complexity of reports and maps dealing
with the earth sciences, the Geology Section is organized into subtopics.
Geology subtopics and a brief description of their contents follow.
Pub I ished information on geology is broken down as indicated below.
COAL-Because of the large, known coal deposits found in most parts of
the Susitna River Basin region, economic studies of coal reserves have
been conducted periodically for many years. Only the more recent coal
studies are included in this bibliography.
MINERALOGY-Resource evaluations and investigations of a variety of
mineral occurrences are annotated in this section. Gold, copper, chromite,
antimony, zeolite and uranium are examples of minerals described.
GEOCHEMISTRY-This section includes studies involving investigations of
distribution and amounts of chemical elements, minerals, and ores in
rocks, soils and water.
GLACIAL GEOLOGY-This section includes studies of glacial patterns and
their chronologie succession as determined by physiographic provinces.
PALEONTOLOGY-These specialized studies examine fossil remains to
determine geologic occurrences.
STRATIGRAPHY -These studies investigate form, arrangement, geographic
distribution, chronologie succession and correlation of rock strata.
Other studies dealing with configuration of the land's surface and its
relationship to underlying structures are actually geomorphology. The term
geomorphology has come to replace the term physiography and is usually
considered a separate report section for purposes of this bibliography.
Maps of geologic information are organized by the subtopics: geochemical,
geophysical, reconnaissance geology, and mineral resources.
CROSS INDEX-The Cross Index of the Geology Section includes titles of
studies discussing geology, but not as the primary topic found in other
resource sections. Geohydrology for example, is found in the Hydrology
section of this bib I iography.
SOURCES-The primary agency contributors to Alaskan geologic investigations
are the Department of the Interior's U.S. Geologic Survey and U.S.
Bureau of Mines; and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division
of Geological and Geophysical Survey. Several other agencies contributing
to Alaska's geology information include: Army Corps of Engineers,
Palmer Seismological Observatory, University of Alaska, Geophysical
Institute and School of Mineral Industry.
9
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS -Reconnaissance geology studies of lode and placer
deposits, and investigations of glaciation in the Susitna Basin began as
early as 1898. Investigations of coal deposits and metal I ic mineral
sites were carried out shortly after the turn of the century. These
studies continued sporadically for the next 40 years, depending on
world-wide energy/mineral needs and local military and civil ian demands.
When the market for coal (temporarily) vanished after World War II and
the price of precious metals fel I, so did the number of geologic investigations
in Alaska. Since the 1960's, interest in Alaska's mineral and fossi I
fuel resources has continued to rise.
The geology bibliography is notal !-inclusive of historical publications,
but includes early work of such geologists as Stephen Capps, A.H. Brooks,
G.H. Elridge and others which stilI serves as the groundwork for many of
today's geologic investigations. The following subject areas, or named
publications briefly summarize some fo the more pertinent data found in
this bibliography section.
I. Numerous investigations have been completed or are currently underway,
on the various coal resources of the Susitna River Basin on State,
federal or native lands. The following three, and several other reports,
provide valuable information on coal reserves in the State priority area
known as the Beluga region:
Geology and Coal Resources of the Beluga-Yentna Region.
Geology and Mineral Deposits of the Chul itna-Yentna Region.
Coal Reserve Study, Chitina-Beluga-Capps Area.
Other investigations cover these areas: a) the Wishbone Hi I I District,
Little Susitna District, Moose Creek District, and Houston deposits, alI
part of the Matanuska Coal field; b) the Willow Creek Mining District;
c) Knik Val ley chromite deposits; d) Coste! lo Creek and Broad Pass coal;
e) Denal i-MaCiaren River Area; and f) Diana Lakes area, Upper Talkeetna
River.
2. Lode and placer deposits are indicated on the "Metal I ic Mineral
Resource Maps" for all quadrangles that comprise the Susitna River Basin.
3. Seismic hazards and areas of instability may be inferred from these
maps:
Reconnaissance Geologic Map along Bruin Bay and Lake Clark Faults
in Kenai and Tyonek Quadrangles.
Surface Geology and Holocene Breaks along the Susitna Segment of
the Castle Mountain Fault.
Geoloqy and Surface Features along Part of the Talkeetna Segment
of the Castle Mountain-Caribou Fault System.
Most other comprehensive geology maps indicate inferred faults of areas
of instabi I ity.
10
)
4. Reports of maps of specific areas may be referred to for data on
surface contours, subsurface materials (sand and gravel), physiography,
topography, etc. if no other data is avai !able.
LEVEL OF INTEREST-The level of interest rating is meant to assign some
other order of priority to the review of the collected documents, and
suggest some relevance in their applicability to regional planning
tasks. The following are examples of criteria considered for rating
geology publications and maps: I) level of detai I of mapping units;
2) specificity to the geographic areas of State concern, (Wi I low geology
would be considered of greater interest than Upper Susitna sub-basin
geology); 3) comprehensive and current publications, and; 4) geologic
investigations providing information on bedrock, materials, seismic
hazards, mineral deposits, fossi I fuel deposits, out crops, and ground
instability.
11
I I. INDEX: GEOLOGY
:J
I I. INDEX: GEOLOGY
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
A. COAL STUDIES
I. Coal Reserve Study, Chitina-Beluga Capps Area Alaska.
2. Mineral Resources of Alaska and the Impact of Federal Land Policies
on Their Avai labi I ity; Coal.
3. Cook Inlet Basin Subsurface Coal Reserve Study.
4. Economic and Geologic Studies of the Beluga-Capps Area and
Geologic Resource Occurrences in Other Areas of the Proposed
Cook Inlet Land Trade.
5. The Wishbone Hi I I District, Matanuska Coal Field.
6. Geology and Coal Resources of the Beluga-Yentna Region Alaska.
7. Geology and Coal Resources of the Little Susitna District Matanuska
Coal Field.
8. Coal Prospects and Coal Exploration and Development in the Lower
Matanuska Val ley, Alaska, in 1950.
9, The Little Tonzona River Coal Beds Near Farewel I, Alaska.
10. Investigation of the W.F. Dunkle Coal Mine Coste! lo Creek,
Chulitna District.
I I. Carbonizing Properties; British Columbia, Matanuska Val ley, and
Washington Coals and Blends of Six of them with Lower Sunnyside
CUtah )_ Coa Is.
12. Sampling and Coking Studies of Coal From Castle Mountain Mine,
Matanuska Coalfield, Alaska.
13. Investigations of Subbituminous Coal Deposits in the Beluga River
Coalfield.
14. Moose Creek District of Matanuska Coal Fields.
15. Investigation of Subbituminous-Coal Beds Near Houston, Westward
Extremity of Matanuska Coalfield Ajaska.
12
PUBLISHED INFORMATION-COAL STUDIES (contJ
16. Bituminous Coal Deposits of the Matanuska Coalfield, Alaska:
Central and Western Parts, Wishbone District.
17. Washabi I ity of Coals from the Matanuska Val ley and Beluga River
Fields, Alaska.
18. Investigation of Subbituminous Coal Deposit Suitable for Opencut
Mining, Beluga River Coalfield, Alaska.
B. MINERALOGY
I. Geology and Ore Deposits of the Wi I low Creek Mining District.
2. Geology and Mineral Deposits of the Chul itna-Yentna Mineral Belt,
A I aska.
3. Occurrences of Gold and Other Metals in The Upper Chulitna District,
AI aska.
4. Geochemical Investigation at Antimony Creek, Antimony Prospect,
Northern Talkeetna Mountains.
5. Potential Mineral Resources in Selected D~2 Lands.
6. Investigation of Knik Val ley Chromite Deposits, Palmer.
7. Sedimentary Zeal ite Deposits of the Upper Matanuska Val ley.
8. Investigations of Alaska's Uranuim Potential.
9. Geology and Mineral Deposits of the Dena I i MaClaren River Area.
10. Stratabound Copper-Gold Occurrence, Northern Talkeetna Mountains.
I I. The Mineral Industry of the Kenai-Cook lnlet-Susitna Region.
C. GEOCHEMISTRY
I. Geology and Geochemistry Diana Lakes Area Western Talkeetna Mountains.
2. Geochemical Investigations of Selected Areas in Alaska, 1964.
3. Geochemical Investigations along Highway and Secondary Roads in
Southcentral Alaska.
4. Geochemical Investigations Wi I low Creek Southerly to Kenai Lake Region
Southcentral Alaska.
13
PUBLISHED INFORMATION-GEOCHEMISTRY (cont)
5. Preliminary Geochemistry and Geology
Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle.
Little Fal Is Creek Area,
6. Geology of an Area on the Upper Talkeetna River, Talkeetna Mountains
Quadrangle.
D. GLACIAL GEOLOGY
I. Quaternary Geology of the Kenai Lowland and Glacial History of
Cook Inlet.
2. East of Mount McKinley Reconnaissance Glacialogical and Geological
Survey.
3. Late Wisconsin and Recent History of the Matanuska Glacier, Alaska.
E. PALEONTOLOGY
I. Early Cretaceous (Albian) Ammonities from the Chitina Val ley and
and the Talkeetna Mountains.
2. Tertiary Stratigraphy and Paleobotany of the Cook Inlet Region, Alaska.
3. Lithology and Palynology of Tertiary Rocks Exposed Near Capps Glacier
and Along Chuitna River, Tyonek Quadrangle.
F. STRATIGRAPHY
I. Variation in Rank of Tertiary Coals in The Cook Inlet Basin.
2. Geochronology a Generalized Geology of the Central Alaska Range,
Clearwater Mountains and Northern Talkeetna Mountains.
3. Regional Gravity Survey of Beluga Basin and Ad,jacent Area, Cook Inlet
Region, Southcentral Alaska.
4. Preliminary Report on Stratigraphy of Kenai Group, Upper Cook Inlet.
5. Guidebook to the Quarternary Geology Central and Southcentral Alaska.
6. Reconnaissance Geologic Investigation in the Talkeetna Mountains.
7. An Analysis of Earthquake Intensities and Recurrence Rates in and
near Alaska.
14
~J
MAPS
A. GEOCHEMICAL
I. Geochemical Anomalies in the Wi I low Creek Mining District,
Talkeetna Mountains Mat-Su Borough.
2. Map Showing Geoloqy, Wildcat Wei Is, Tertiary Plant Fossi I Lo~al ities,
K-AR age dates, and Petroleum Operations, Cook Inlet Area, Alaska.
B. GEOPHYSICAL
I. Aeromagnetic Maps for Talkeetna, Talkeetna Mountains and Tyonek.
2. Topographic and Geologic Map of the Knob Creek Area of the Wishbone
Hi I I District, Matanuska Coak Field.
3. Surface Geology and Holocene Breaks along the Susitna Segment of
the Castle Mountain Fault.
4. Geology and Surface Features Along Part of the Talkeetna Segment of
the Castle Mountain -Caribou Fault System.
C. RECONNAISSANCE GEOLOGY
I. Reconnaissance Engineering Geology for Selection of Highway Route
From Talkeetna to McGrath, Alaska.
2. Reconnaissance Geologic Map Along Bruin Bay and Lake Clark Faults
in Kenai and Tyonek Quadrangles.
3. Reconnaissance Geology Southcentral Talkeetna Mountains.
4. Geologic Map of Talkeetna Mountains (A2) Quadrangle, and the
Contiguous Area to the North and Northwest.
5. Geologic Map of Talkeetna Mountains CA-l) Quadrangle, and the
South Third of Talkeetna Mountains tB-1) Quadrangle.
6. Geologic Map of Lower Matanuska Val ley.
7. Generalized Geologic Map of the Alaska-Aleutian Range Batholith
Showing Potassium-Argon Ages of The Plutonic Rocks.
D. MINERAL RESOURCES
I. Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of the Mount McKinley Quadrangle.
2. Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of the Talkeetna Quadrangle.
3. Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of the Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle.
4. Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of the Tyonek Quadrangle.
15
MAPS -MINERAL RESOURCES (cont)
5. Meta II ic MineraI Resources Map of the Healy Quadrangle.
6. Meta IIi c MineraI Resources Map of the Anchorage Quadrangle.
7. Meta II ic MineraI Resources Map of the Mount Hayes Quadrangle.
8. Meta IIi c MineraI Resources Map of the Gu I kana Quadrangle.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program (AMRAP).
2. Alaska Geochemical Analysis.
3. Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle, Geologic Mapping.
4. Talkeetna Quadrangle, Mineral Resource Evaluation.
5. Beluga Coal Fields, Reserves on State Lands.
6. Analysis of Faults in the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys.
7. Evaluation of Bedrock Geology and the South Side Matanuska Val ley.
8. Mineral Exploration, Cities Service Minerals Corporation.
9. Surficial Geology of the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys.
16
I I I. CROSS INDEX: GEOLOGY
At times, studies and the resultant reports, encompass more than one
natural resource subject included in this annotated bib! iography.
Because of this, a cross index has been prepared to faci I itate the
reader in locating other reports that discuss geology, but in a secondary
manner. An attempt has been made to include reports in the section_most
closely related to the bulk of the report's content.
See HYDROLOGY SECTION for annotations of the following:
Geology and Ground Water Resources of the Matanuska Val ley
Agriculture Area. USGS Water Supply Paper 149.
114
Salinity Study, Cook Inlet Basin. DGGS, Geologic Report No. 54. 129
Upper Susitna River: An Inventory & Evaluation of Environmental
Aesthetic and Recreational Resources. By Jones and Jones for
The Corps of Engineers.
See SOILS SECTION for annotations of the following:
Contributions to Clay Mineralogy and Petrology, Cook Inlet Basin.
DGGS, Alaska Open File Report No. 102.
See VEGETATION for annotations of the following:
Dena I i Remote Sensing Pro.ject
17
149
194
211
IV. PUBLISHED INFORMATION: GEOLOGY
..
A. COAL STUDIES
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
CoaJ Reserve Study, Chitina-Beluga
Capps Are~ Alaska. McGee, D.L.; DGGS Alaska
Open File Report #30, ( 1973), (7 p. 5 plates).
Priority area 4a.
Interest level 1.
I) Location Map (statewide; no scale).
2) Geologic Map Cl :63,360) west side Cook
Inlet Basin. tncludes recent, Tertiary, Jurassic
and/or Cretaceous formations and other.
geologic information.
3,4 & 5) Cross sections of coal regions.
The area covered by the investigation is
approximately 468 square miles., The study area
is between Beluga River and Nikolai Creek, bounded
by Beluga Lake on. the north. and Cook Inlet on
the south.
A geologic description includes the following sections
on general stratigraphy: Tertiary age rocks, Quaternary
rocks, pyroclastic deposits; intrusive rocks, Castle
Mo~ntain fault and folding. Economic considerations
(such as physical aspects and reserve calculations
of coal), coal reserves (In short tons); and references
are also given.
18
Tit I~:
Area:
Interest;
Maps:
Tables:
Miner~! Resources of Al~sk~ ~nd the lmp~ct
of Feder~! L~nd Pol leles on Their Av~l l~bl I lty: Co~ I.
McGee, D.L. ~nd O'Connor, K.M.; DGGS
Al~sk~ Open Fl le Report 51, (M~rch 1975), (26
p • I I I us. ) •
St~tewlde, Including known and hypothetical
resources of coal.
Interest Level 2.
All Maps are reduced, Series E, 1"=150 miles,
approximately, color overlays.
I) Map of Alaska showing known and hypothetical
coal areas In Alaska.
2) Map of Alaska showing present use of coal
potential land In Alaska.
3) Proposed ultimate use of coal potential
I and I n A I as ka •
4) Coal potential areas with proposed lands
of high adverse Impact.
5) Map of Alaska showing multiple use lands.
6) Coal potential areas and state lands.
7) Coal potential areas with Native Land.
I) Estimated known and hypothetical resources
of coal In Alaska.
21 Present (Bnd estimated) Impact of previous and
proposed public land withdrawals on coal potential
land In Alaska (onshore> ..
3) Effect of lands of high adverse Impact on
coal development.
4) Effect of multiple use lands on coal
potential areas.
5) Effect of State land on coal potential
areas.
6) Effect of Native lands on coal potential
areas.
19
Description: The report is divided into two parts. Part I
indicates where ~nown and hypothetical coal
resources are located and estimates how much
of the resource can be econo~ical ly produced.
The second part discusses the avai labi I ity of
coal in Alaska with regard to present and
proposed land use policies.
The known and hypothetical coal resources of the
Matanuska Coal fields, the Susitna Coal Field
(Bel~ga~Yentna area) and the Kenai offshore
coal areas are who! ly within or offshore of
the Susitna River Basin.
Recommendations and references of other reports
used in making the estimates used in this report
are i ric I uded, ·
20
Title: Cook Inlet B~sln Subsurf~ce Co~l Reserve
Study, McG~e, D.L. ~nd O'Connor, K.M.; DGGS
Al~sk~ Open File Report #74, (April 1975).
( I 9 pI I I I us I) I
Priority Are~s 4~ ~nd 4b.
Interest Leve I I.
I) Cummul~tlve Co~l M~p, Surf~ce to 2,000 1
( I """4 m I I e~) •
2) Cummulatlve Coal Map, 2,000' to 5,000 1 ,
( I ""'4 m I I e~) •
3) Cummul~tlve Co~l Map, Surface to 10,000 1
( I "=4 m I I e~) •
I) Ll~t of Control Wei Is for d~ta points
( 86 we I Is) .
lllustr~tlons: I) Aerl~l loc~tlon of~ co~ I bed or bed~,
e~ch thIcker th~n 20 1 , In the I nterva I I, 000 1
to 2, 000 1 , ( Sc~ I e I "=4 m I I es) ,
2) Aerial loc~tlon of ~ coal bed or bed~,
each thicker th~n 20 1 , in the lnterv~l 2,000 1
to 3, 000 1 ( sc~ I e I "=4 m I I es) •
3) Aerl~l location of~ coal bed or beds,
e~ch thicker th~n 20 1 , In the lnterv~l
3, 000 1 to 4, 000 1 (sc~ I e I """4 m I I es) •
4) Aerl~l loc~tlon of~ coal bed or bed~,
e~ch thicker th~n 20 1 , In the lnterv~l 4,000 1
to 5, 000 1 , (sea I e I "=4 m I I es) •
5) Aerl~l location of ~ co~l bed or beds,
each thicker th~n 20 1 , In the lnterv~l of
5, 000 1 to I 0, 000' , (~c~ I e I "=4 m I I es) •
Description: The contents of the report ~re divided Into
these sections: Introduction, geology by
stratlgr~phy, Tertiary and Ou~tern~ry ~ge
rocks, procedures, physic~! ~spect~ of the
co~ I, conclusions, expl~n~tlon of ex~mple
dl~gr~m, ~nd references.
Data from explor~tory ~nd production wei Is
h~ve been ex~mlned to est~bl Ish subsurf~ce
co~l reserves. Co~l trend~ ~nd ~re~s of
f~vor~ble deposition ~re de~crlbed. Much of
the coal de~crlbed In thl~ report I~ not
recover~ble by known method~ ~nd technologle~,
but new method~ of recovery m~y cre~te ~
need for lnform~tlon cont~lned In this report.
21
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps;
Tables:
Description:
Economic and Geologic Studies of the Beluga -
Capps Area and Geologic Resource Occurrences
in other areas of the Proposed Cook Inlet
Land Trade. Dobey, P.L. and McGee, D.L.;
DGGS, Alaska Open File #94, (January 1976),
( 86 p. i I I us. ) .
State Priority Area 4a and 4b.
Interest Level 1.
The report includes an index map, a map of
the trade area; and a classification diagram
by economic, identified or undiscovered
resource occurrence.
The following map also accompanies the report:
"Proposed Land Trade, Capps,
Glacier-Beluga Areas, Land
Evaluation and Coal Reserve
Study." (I :63,360, 50 foot
contour intervals).
I) "Theoretical estimates of State Royalty
Income from trade area coal years 1971-2025."
2) Theoretic production schedules.
3) Potential real value of royalty income from
coal.
4) Present values of coal based on three inflation
rates.
5) Theoretic royalty income projected to 2025.
This economic and geologic study is organized
into three sections:
I) Coal Resource Appraisal of the Beluga-
Capps Glacier area.
2) Potential revenues from coal royalties in
the Capps Glacier area.
3) Resource appraisal of land exchange outside
of the Beluga-Capps Glacier area.
22
Description:
Appendix:
Area:
The third section gives a brief appraisal of
the oi I and gas, coal, metal I ic minerals,
uranium, geothermal and gravel resources of
each of these areas: Point McKenzie and
Knik-Wi I low; Kashwitna area; Chickaloon area;
Alexander Creek; Salamatof; and South Kenai.
These are land areas involved in trades between
the State and the Cook Inlet Region, Inc.
The third section also gives a resource
appraisal for the I I iamna, Talkeetna Mountains,
Kamishak and Tutna Lake areas. These are
land areas involved in trades between the state
and the federal government.
"The Potential for Developing Alaskan Coals
for Clean Export Fuels". Office of Coal Research, USDI,
Stan ford Research Institute ( 18 p. inc I uded in
Alaska Open File #94).
Priority Area 4.
Avai labi I ity: Included in Alaska Open File #94 for
reproduction only.
Description: The report examines the economic feasibi I ity
of a coal conversion faci I ity using the Beluga
coal reserves as an example. In order to
demonstrate the feasibi I ity of this coal con-
version project four major areas are investigated:
I) coal reserve size, quality, mining costs, etc.;
2) coal conversion plant; 3) product transportation
port survey in Alaska; and 4) market survey.
23
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
The Wishbone Hi I I District, Matanuska Coal
Field. Barnes, F.F. and Payne, T.G.; USGS
Bu I I et in I 016 ( 1956), ( 88 p. 20 maps) .
Matanuska Val ley.
Interest Leve I 2.
Twenty plates (maps) and four tables are
included in the report. Technical data
i I lustrated on these maps and tables
includes geology, structure cross sections,
coal bed sections, graphic logs of dri I I
holes, temperature and precipitation,
coal production and estimated rema1n1ng coal
reserves in the Wishbone Hi I I District.
Four of the maps most pertinent to other
studies in the Matanuska-Susitna area
are:
I) Geologic map of eastern part of Wishbone
Hi I I district, Matanu~ka coal field. (I :12,000,
with 25 foot contour intervals).
2) Geologic map of western part of Wishbone
Hi I I district (I :12,000 with 25 foot contour
i nterva Is).
3) Geologic map of Eska mine and vicinity.
tl :3,000 scale, with 100 foot contours).
4) Geologic map of Evan Jones mine and
vicinity~ tl :6,000 scale, with 20 foot
contours).
Geo~ogic features, including faults and
thrust zones are shown on these maps.
The report is a historical tool helpful
to understanding the coal resources
of this coal field, (which in 1953 contained the
only producing bituminous coal mines in Alaska).
24
------------------------------------------------------------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Geology and Coal Resources of The Beluga -
Yentna Region Alaska. Barnes, F.F.; USGS
Bu I I et in 1202-C ( 1966) , (54 p. i I I us. ) .
Includes alI of State Priority Areas 4a
and 4b.
Interest Leve I I .
I) (In Pocket) Geologic Map of Beluga-
Yentna Region. (Scale I :250,000 with 200
foot contour intervals.) Colored map indicates
various deposits, formations, faults, antic! ine,
sync I ine, and strike and dip of beds. The
map keys geographic areas covered by more
deta i I ed maps.
2) (In Pocket) Geologic maps and sections of
the principal coal-bearing areas in the
northern and central parts of the Beluga-
Yentna region. Inc I udes the Fairview Mountain
area, Canyon Creek area, Johnson Creek area,
and Coal Creek area Cal I at I :63,360 scale,
with 100 feet contour intervals), Colored
maps for each area are included on this plate.
3) Sections of coal beds showing types of
coal, claystone, siltstone, sandstone, coal
and rock lenses, conglomerate and gravel are
included for the following locations: a)
Central part of Beluga-Yentna region, b)
Capps Glacier area, c) Beluga River area, and
d) Chuitna River area.
4) (In Pocket) Geologic map and section of
Beluga and Chuitna River areas. Map includes
the partial boundary of the Moquawkie (Tyonek)
Indian Reservation. (Scale I :63,360, contour
intervals 50 and 100 feet.)
5) The text includes a generalized map of
the Cook Inlet Basin indicating the location
of the Beluga-Yentna region and its relation
to other coal fields in south-central Alaska
(Reduced in reproduction, scale is approximately
I "=50 m i . )
25
Tables:
Description:
I) Analyses of coal from the Beluga-Yentna
region.
2) Estimated reserves of coal in the Beluga-
Yentna region.
The report abstract explains the fieldwork,
aerial photographs and supplemental aerial
reconnaissance work needed to study the
nearly 5,000 square mile area. The purpose,
scope, location and extent of study are
explained in the introduction.
Under the geography section heading, the
following are included: topography, drainage; climate,
vegetation, land use, settlement and accessibi I ity.
The geology section is divided into three
sections: a) rocks of Jurassic and/or Cretaceous
age, b) rocks of Tertiary age, and c) rocks
of Quaternary age.
The discussion of the region's coal includes:
a) the character and distribution of the coal
beds, b) their physical and chemical properties,
c) estimates of reserves, and d) coal occurrences
by townships.
The potential of oi I and gas in the area is
discussed, but is summarized as less than
encouraging.
26
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Geology and Coal Resources of The Little
Susitna District Matanuska Coal Field.
Barnes, F. F. and Sokol D.; USGS Bulletin
I 058-D ( 1959), ( I 7p. i I I us. ) •
State priority area 1.
Interest Leve I 2
I) Index map of south-central Alaska, showing
location of the Little Susitna district.
(Map shows generalized location of the region,
no determinable scale.)
2) Several other maps (or sketches) of
individual coal beds, dril I holes and outcrops
are included in the text.
3) (In Pocket) Geologic Map of the Little
Susitna District, (scale I :63,360), Contour
intervals 50 and 100 feet. Colored map showing
al luvlum, terrace gravels, morainal and
outwash deposits, coal-bearing formation
schist and other geologic information such as
tau It I i nes.
4) (In Pocket) Four maps and sections of coal
localities (scales vary from 1"=100 1 to
1"=300' with 10 foot contour intervals.)
Faults are shown on maps and cross sections.
I) Analyses of coal from the Little Susitna
district, Matanuska coal field, Alaska.
Various coal location samples are tested for
the following: moisture, volatile matter,
fixed carbon, ash, sulfur, and heating value
in b.t.u.
The following information about the Little
Susitna district is included in the report:
general features of the region; stratigraphy;
structure; character and distribution of
the coal; subsurface exploration equipment
and methods; description of four coal localities
including coal production near Houston. The coal
resources are summarized.
27
0
Description:
(cont)
The Little Susitna District of the Matanuska
Coal Field is located along the northern
border of the lower Matanuska Val ley. At the
west end of the district is the Alaska Railroad.
The district includes an area of coal-bearing
rocks ranging from I to 2 miles in width,
extending for about 22 miles along the north
side of the lower (west) end of the Matanuska
Valley.
28
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Coal Prospects and Coal Exploration and
Development in the Lower Matanuska Val ley,
Alaska, in 1950. USGS Circular 154, (1951 ),
(6 p. copy of original and sketch map),
State priority area I and Matanuska Val ley
area.
Interest Level 3.
I) Sketch map showing location of coal
and prospects of I ower Matanuska Va I I ey (I "=4
miles, approximate; poor quality map reproduction).
Sites examined as part of this incidental
field examination included alI the operating
coal mines in the lower Matanuska Val ley and
several isolated and I ittle-known coal prospects.
The geologic setting of the region is described.
Mines and prospects at Eska Creek (3), Moose
Creek (3), Little Susitna River t3) Wi I low
Creek (1), and the area of Granite Creek are
described with respect to mining or prospecting
activity, productivity and commercial potential.
The quality, with regard to moisture, volatile
matter, fixed carbon, ash, sulfur and heating
value is given for various samples.
References are cited at the conclusion of the
report.
29
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Table:
Description:
~~)
The Little Tonzona River Coal Beds Near Farewel I,
Alaska. Player, G.F., and Bannister, D.P.; USDI,
Bureau of Mines preliminary report for Open Files.
(No date, approximately January 1977), (16 p. i I Ius.).
North edge of the Alaska Range, 35 miles southwest
of Mt. McKinley (Denali) National Park.
Interest Level 3.
I) Little Tonzona River Coal Outcrop and Other
Occurrences of the Ra i I be It (I "=40 mi I es).
I) Comparison of analyses of coals from the Little
Tonzona River and other Alaskan Tertiary Coal Fields.
The report describes findings of investigations
of previously unreported thick coal beds cropping out
between Farewel I and Mt. McKinley Park recognized
and sampled as part of the Bureau of Mines investiga-
tion of mineral potential of D-2 lands. One sequence
of coal beds includes at least 120 feet of subbituminous
coal in a Tertiary exposure.
Report discusses location and accessibi I ity, general
geology, and investigations by contractors.
30
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Investigation of The W.F. Dunkle Coal
Mine Costello Creek, Chulitna District.
Rutledge, F.A.; USDI, Bureau of Mines, Report
of Investigations 4360, (October 1948), (9 p.
i II us.).
Upper Talkeetna Basin. The W.E. Dunkle
Coal Mine is in the Broad Pass region on the
south slope of the Alaska Range.
Interest Level 3.
I) Location map, W.E. Dunkle Coal Mine
(1"=5 miles).
2) Geologic and topographic sketch map of
Costello Creek coal basin Cl"=l mile).
Other maps include: underground workings,
dri I I hole locations, and cross sections of
the coal mine.
Because of the age of this report, the
information, even the physical description of
the area, have changed since 1948.
Report contents include: descriptions of the
location and its accessibility, physical
features and climate, history, production,
geology, description of deposits, calculated
coal reserves, mine workings, and analysis
of the mining products.
Avai labi I ity: USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office
has a copy of the original report available
for reproduction.
31
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Carbonizing Properties: British Columbia, Matanuska
Val ley, and Washington Coals and Blends of Six of
them with Lower Sunnyside (Utah) Coals.
Davis~ J.D. and others; USDI, Bureau of Mines
Bu I I et i n 5 I 0, ( I 9 51 ) , ( 42 p. ) .
Matanuska Val ley, Eska-Jonesvil le and Chickaloon areas.
Interest Level 3.
This report gives results of an investigation of the
carbonizing properties of 18 coals, including two from
Alaska. The Alaska samples were ranked as medium-volatile
bituminous and coked strongly.
Field work, testing and report preparation took place in
the late 1940s and '50s; since that time avai I able technology
and environmental requirements may have invalidated
conclusions drawn as a result of this coal carbon study.
Availability: USDI, Bureau of Minei, office file copy available for
reproduction.
32
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Tables:
Description:
Sampling and Coking Studies of Coal From
Castle Mountain Mine, Matanuska Coalfield,
Alaska. Warfield, R.S., Landers, W.S. and
Boley, C.C.; USDI, Bureau of Mines Open File
Report 7-66, (February 1966), (14 p.).
Castle Mountain, Chickaloon area of the
Matanuska Coal Field.
Interest Level 3.
Six tables are included showing results
of work by the Coal Research Laboratory,
Denver, Colorado. Laboratory work included
"cleaning" of samples to reduce ash
content, bench-scale studies, coke production
tests, and tests on the coke produced.
Although the remaining strip-minable
reserves at the Castle Mountain mine are
smal I, this study was undertaken because
the area was believed to be underlain by
coal of a quality equal to that mined. Coke
from the unblended coal was strong and was
considered of foundry quality according to
the report abstract.
Location and accessibi I ity were discussed,
as was geology of the vi~inity, actual
sampling and coking study process.
Availability: USDI, Bureau of Mines, office file copy
avai !able for reproduction.
33
---~~-------~-----~~~ -~-----~~~~~--~--~
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Photos:
Description:
,··J···
•.
Investigations of_Subbituminous Coal Deposits
in the Beluga River Coalfield. Warfield,
R.S.; USDI, Bureau of Mines, Open File Report
43-61 , (Feb. 1961 ) , ( 70 p. i I I us.) .
State Priority area 4a.
Interest level 1.
I) Location Map of Beluga River Project Area.
(I /2"=2 miles).
2) Plan of Beluga River Project Area (1"=1,000 1 ).
Indicates location of diamond dri I I hole,
test hole, muskeg and the bottom of the coal
seam contour.
3) Two cross sections of the Beluga River
Project area.
I) Pertinent dri 11-hole data. Includes 23
dri I I holes and indicates the following:
total depth, unconsolidated overburden
depth, coal section interval, and bedding
angle.
2) Analyses of Beluga River coal cores. The
following information is tabulated for 32
samples: interval, depth, core rejected, core
analyzed (all in feet); moisture, ash, volatile
matter, fixed carbon (percentages); and caloric
value (in btu).
I) Discovered outcrop area exposing 40 feet of coal.
2) Typical core dri I I operating in a muskeg area.
The report introduction describes dril I
holes made during the 1959 and 1960 summer
field seasons, and a bul !dozer trench made to
excavate unweathered coal for washability
studies.
Location, method of access and mode of transportation
used by the Bureau of Mines are explained, Conclu-
sions are drawn about accessibi I ity of the area
for commercial mining. Land, water and air routes
into the area east of Beluga Lake are noted.
34
De!:;cri pt ion:
(cont)
Topography of the vicinity, and overburden character
as it relates to mining methods are given. Core
dri I I ing procedures and results used in determining
character, attitude and extent of a 50 to
65 foot thick coal seam are shown.
Sampling procedures, laboratory examination and
results are discussed with regard to the economic
feasibi I ity of mining the deposit.
The reserves are described, but no estimates
are given for the smaller seam analyzed
because of the few Intersections and consequent
scant knowledge.
An appendix includes a detailed analysis of
each of the Beluga River dri I I holes.
Avai labi I ity: Avai !able for reproduction from the USDI,
Bureau of Mines.
35
J
Title: Moose Creek District of Matanuska Coal
Fields. Apell, G.A.; USDI, Bureau of Mines,
Report of Investigations 3784, (December
I 944) , ( 35 p. ) .
Area: Matanuska Val ley, Wishbone Hi I I area.
Interest! Interest Level 3.
Description: The Moose Creek coal field is defined as
to acessibi I ity, quality, production capability,
etc, but due to the date of study (1943-1944),
the data has become obsolete.
Availabi I ity: USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office
has original copy for reproduction.
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Investigation of Subbituminous-Coal Beds
Near Houston,_Westward Extremity of Matanuska
Coalfield Alaska. May, R.R. and Warfield,
R.S; USDI, Bureau of Mines, Report of Investigations
5350, (August 1957), (20 p.)
State Priority Area 1.
Interest Level 3 ..
Location map of Houston coal-dri I I ing
project. (I "=5 miles, approximately).
Preliminary examination of the Houston
strip-coal mine and a review of the avai I able
information resulting from early coal exploration
was undertaken because of the proximity of
the mine to the Alaska Rai I road. The report
concludes that some coal beds in the vicinity I ie
beneath a zone of pressurized gas and brackish
water. Continued development, it explains,
would depend on cheap mining methods and on
di I igent prospecting for strippable coal.
Location, accessibi I ity, topography and climate
(as it affects mining operations) are described.
Production history, area geology and results
of coal sampling, analyses and methodology are
given.
Avai labi I ity: USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office has a
copy of the original report available for
reproduction.
37
... ·····-······ ----·-..• -·--·----------·-----------·-----------·-------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Bituminous Coal Deposits Of the Matanuska
Coalfield, Alaska: Central and Western
Parts, Wishbone District. Warfield, R.S.;
USDI, Bureau of Mines, Report of Investigations
5950, (1962), (190 p. illus.).
Matanuska Val ley, Wishbone Hi I I.
Interest Level 3.
Two pocket maps indiccte plans for the central
and western parts of the Wishbone Hi I I coal
district (scale 1"=500 1 ).
Other maps indicate the location of the
Wishbone Hi I I district, and numerous core
sections of dril I holes.
I) Coal production from the Wishbone Hi I I
district through 1959.
Other tables include a summary of dri I 1-holes
for the western and central parts of the
district, estimated coal reserves remaining
in the district and an analysis of diamond-
dril I core samples.
This report describes the program conducted
by the Bureau of Mines from 1949 to 1958,
and briefly summarizes previous investigations,
(~he results of which have already been
published). The program provided additional
information on the nature of synclinal structure,
and determined the character and quality of the
coal over a much larger area than previously
explored. With additional data, coal reserve
estimates in the vicinity of the Buffalo, Baxter
and Premier Mines were increased and some reserves
were reclassified. The investigations conducted
by the Bureau of Mines and USGS, have been extensive
enough to serve as a adequate guide for private
exploration and development.
The report includes information on location,
accessibility, topography, climate and
vegetation. History of each of the mines
is given, and production and area geology are
described. Other work by the Bureau of Mines
is described in detai I.
Availability; USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office has
original copy for reproduction.
38
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Washabi I ity of Coals from the Matanuska
Val ley and Beluga River Fields, Alaska.
Greer, M.R. and Fennessy, F.D.; USDI, Bureau
of Mines, Report of Investigations 6017,
( I 962) , ( 33 p. ) .
State priority area 4a (Beluga River)
and Matanuska Val ley coal fields.
Interest Level 3.
The report synthesizes alI coal washabl I ity
data avai I able (as of date of pub I ication)
on coals of the Matanuska Val ley and Beluga
River fields. Data from earlier studies as
I isted below is included in the report:
I) Bituminous-Coal Deposits~ the Vicinity
of Eska, Matanuska Val ley Coal Field, Alaska.
(Feb. 1952) Report of Investigations 4838.
2) Washabi I ity Characteristics and Washing of
Coals From the Matanuska Field of Alaska. ----(January 1946) Report of Investigations 3840.
3) Reconnaissance of the Beluga River Coalfield,
Alaska. (June 1958), Report of Investigations
5430.
The summary report describes each mine and
mining area. Numerous coal bed cross sections
are depicted. Most of the report is devoted
to tabulations for each of the mines, (float
and sink tables).
Avai labi I ity: All reports, inc! uding the summary and individual
investigations, are avai !able from the USDI,
Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office for reproduction.
39
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Avai labi I ity:
()-
'~
Investigation of a Subbituminous Coc.ll
Deposit Suitable for Opencut Mininq, 8eluqa f<ivc;r_
Coalfield, Alaska. Warfield, R.S.; USUI, f~ureiJu (Jf
Mines Report of Investigations 6238, (1963), ( 100 p.
i I I us.) .
State Priority area 4a, Beluga River Area.
Interest Level 3.
I) Location map, Beluga River project
a rea. (Sea I e I "=4 m i I es) .
2) General Geology, Beluga River Coalfield.
(Scale 1"=10 miles approximately.) Shows
major coal outcrops and areas of general
geologic formations.
3) Plan, Beluga River Project Area. (Scale:
I"= 1500 1 approximately.)
Pertinent dri I 1-hole data, coal bed sections,
specific-gravity analyses of various sized
raw coal, analysis of raw coal and analysis
of coal cores.
The Bureau of Mines investigated a favorable
coal area (Bast of Beluga Lake) to determine
whether there were sufficient minable coal reserves
to meet projected thermal power needs of the Anchorage
area. Studies indicated that mechanical cleaning
would be of doubtful value. Drainage problems
which might complicate hydraulic methods of
mining were noted.
The Beluga River project area description includes
access and transportation, the region's physical
features, climate, vegetation and general geology.
The washabi I ity study was explained in detai I, and
detailed logs of dri I I holes are included in the
report appendix.
USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage office has
ori~inal copy for reproduction.
40
B. MINERALOGY
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Geology and Ore Deposits of The WI I low Creek
Mining District. Ray, R.L.; USGS Bulletin -1004
(1954), (85 p. itlus.).
State Priority area 1.
Interest Level 2.
I) Geologic map of the Wi I low Creek Mi~ing
District (2"= I mi I e.)
2) Structure map showing lineation and foliation,
Wi I low Creek Mining District (2"=1 mile).
3) Map showing joint system and general fol latlon
pattern in quartz diorite, Wi I low Creek Mining
District. (2"=1 mile).
4) Map showing general location of claims
surveyed for patent (vertical 1"=80 feet).
5) Map showing workings of Gold Cord mine.
(crosscut: I"= I 00 feet).
6) Map showing main workings of Independence
mine. (crosscut: 1"=100 feet).
7) Map showing workings of Fern mine. (crosscut:
I"= I 00 feet).
8) Map showing workings of Mabel mine. (crosscut:
I"= I 00 feet).
9) Map showing workings of Kelly-Willow prospect.
(crosscut: 1"=60 feet).
29 other illustrations are included which show mineral
occurrences; aerial views of the Wi I low Creek mining
area; photomicrographs of different minerals; and
maps of several mine workings including Lonesome,
Snowbird, Highgrade, and Thorpe mines.
I) Records of temperature and precipitation at
Wasi I Ia, 1945-1950.
2) Monthly mean high and low temperatures at
Wasilla, 1945-1950.
41
Tables:
Ccont)
Description:
3) Records of temperature and precipitation at
Palmer 1941-1950.
4) Monthly mean high and low temperatures at Palmer,
1941-1950.
5) Micrometric analyses of quartz diorite.
6) Lode gold production by years, 1909-1950.
The report contents are organized as follows;
The geography of the area includes a discussion of
the location and accessibi I ity. Topography, climate
and vegetation are described, including tables of National
Weather Service weather data since the Palmer and Wasil Ia
stations have been maintaining records.
General geology includes a discussion of metamorphic
rocks, igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks and structural
features of the area.
Economic geology includes a general history and
production discussion, and an analysis of the ore
veins in the area.
42
Title:
-~
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Table:
Description:
C)
Geology and Mineral Deposits of the Chulitna-
Yentna Mineral Belt, Alaska, Hawley, C.C. and
Clark, A.L; USGS Professional Paper 758-A
(1973), CIO p. illus.).
Upper Beluga sub-basin.
Interest Level I.
I) (Plates in Pocket) "Generalized geologic
map showing mineral deposits of the Chulitna-
Yentna mineral belt, Alaska," (1:250,000,
contour intervals 200 1 ). Color shaded geologic
map includes veins, deposits, placer gold
occurrences, the Pass Creek Fault, and other
mineral bearing geologic occurrences.
2) Maps showing distribution of metals and
mafic and ultramafic rocks in the Chulitna-
Yentna mineral belt.
Four maps of the same location indicate (by
means of color-shading), the occurrence of the
following: a) mafic and ultramafic rocks,
platinum, and chromium; b)copper, c) gold and
arsenic, and d)tin. (I :500,000)
Ore minerals of the Chul itna-Yentna mineral
belt. Includes relative abundance and indicates
whether prospects are of a placer or lode
nature.
In the report introduction, the mineral belt
is described as a "nearly linear feature 5-20
miles wide and at least 100 miles long ....•. "
Previous and present investigations of the mineral
belt are outlined.
The description of the geologic setting
includes the Upper Chulitna fault, the west
district fault, the Peters Hi I Is lineament,
the Pass Creek fault, and the Dutch Creek
I ineament. The relation of the mineral belt to
those major faults is discussed.
The mineral deposits
belt are described.
the distribution and
arsenic, copper, tin
43
and occurrences in the
Included are detai Is on
occurrence of gold,
and other metals.
Description:
(cant)
The Chul itna-Yentna mineral belt is compared--
in relation to faults, igneous intrusives, and
tectonic positions--to some other mineral belts
in other states.
Mineral resources and general suggestions
for prospecting are summarized in a concluding
section.
Report references are cited.
44
ntle:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Occurrences of Gold and Other Metals in
the Upper Chulitna District, Alaska. Hawley,
C.C. and Clark, A.L; USGS Circular 564,
(1968), (13 p. illus.)
Upper Beluga sub-basin.
Interest Level 2.
I) Index map showing location of the
Upper Chulitna district (localized area
indicator map for Healy Quad., I :250,000
series).
2) Location of four mineralized areas in the
Upper Chulitna district (1:63,360, contour
intervals 100 1 ).
3) Generalized geologic map of the Colorado
Creek a rea. (Poor qua I i ty rep rod uct ion,
reduced sea I e I"= 1, 000 1 approximate I y).
4) Generalized geologic map of the Golden
Zone mine area ( 1"=300 1 approximately, poor
quality reproduction).
5) Generalized geologic map showing assay
data, 100-foot-level Golden Zone mine.
6) Generalized geologic map of the Blind
Creek area (1"=1000 1 ).
7) Generalized geologic map of the Long Creek
a rea ( I"= I 000 1 ) •
8) Location and gold concentration of stream-
sediment samples, Upper Chulitna district.
( I I /2"=2 m i I es).
The main economic features of the four
areas containing deposits of gold or
other metals are described in detai 1. These
areas are, from north to south: Colorado
Creek, Golden Zone, Blind Creek, and Long
Creek.
Stream sediment samples are described with
regard to the amounts of gold and other
elements. A final paragraph of the report is
devoted to a district-wide summary of mineral
occurrence and recommendations for geophysical
prospecting.
45
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Geochemical Investigation at Antimony Creek,
Antimony Prospect,_Northern Talkeenta Mountains.
Hawley, C.C., Meier, A.L., Miller, R.L., U.S.
Geological Survey Open File Report 68-123 (pre! iminary
report) (1968), (8 p. illus. sketches).
Upper Talkeetna Sub-basin, near Antimony Creek
tributary to the east fork of the Chulitna River.
Interest Level 2.
I) Index map showing generlized geology near
Antimony prospect (1"=1 mile; sketch).
2) Metal anomaly maps at the Antimony prospect
(1"=100 feet; sketch map).
Analyses of samples from the Antimony prospect.
The report abstract states that a stibnite-quartz
vein near Antimony Creek contains as much as 0.18
ounces of gold per ton. Geochemical reconnaissance
suggests that the vein, although very smal I, is
more continuous than previously assumed, and zinc
probably exists in the area.
The history of the investigation of the prospect is
explained and the geologic setting briefly described.
The investigation took place prior to the completion
of Alaska Highway 3, which may have further influenced
prospecting in the region.
46
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Potential Mineral Resources in Selected D-2
Lands. Bottge, R.G.; USDI, Bureau of Mines
Open File Report 9-74, (June 1973), (51 p.
i I I us. ) .
Statewide D-2 lands. Of particular interest
to the Susitna River basin are the findings
for the Talkeetna and Mt. McKinley quadrangles.
Interest Leve I 2 .
I) Talkeetna and Mt. McKinley areas: Tracts
within 02 lands which should remain open for
mineraI and foss II fue I deve I opment. (I :250,000
scale.) Includes Chulitna-Yentna mineral
belt region. D-2 lands with relation to known
mineral, coal or oi I shale deposits are
shown.
(16 tracts throughout the state are shown but
the above is the only area indlcated within the
Susitna River basin suggested for multiple-
use, i.e. mining.)
This report discusses the need for A I aska 's
minerals, the need for surface transportation
corridors, and their relationship to planned
D-2 withdrawals.
A review of actions leading up to the
recommendations In the report Is Included In
the Introduction.
Generalized accounts are given of the need
for Alaska's minerals, and the questions:
"When wil I mining commence?" and "How long
will mining last?" are discussed. Transportation
of minerals, and multiple uses of D-2 lands
are discussed in a general fashion.
Each land tract has an accompanying data
sheet which gives: I) the location from Anchorage
to Fairbanks, 2) its present accessibility and
its nearness to future highway corridors, 3) its
proximity to labor and supplies, 4) the general
geology, and 5) the occurrence of mineral and
fule commodities known or likely to exist.
Finally, the mineral potential is assessed and
the potential mineral value estimated.
Availability: Available from the USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage,
for reproduction.
47
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Investigation of Knik Val ley Chromite
Deposits, Palmer. Bjorklund, S. and Wright,
W.S.; USDI, Bureau of Mines, Report of Investiga-
tion 4356, <October 1948), (5 p. i !Ius.).
South side of Knik River Val ley.
Interest Level 3.
This report is the result of studies of
two chromite occurrences on the south side of
Knik River Val ley. Because of the date of
the publication (1948), much of the information
is invalid or has altered over time.
Brief descriptions include the following:
location, accessibi I ity, cl !mate, vegetation,
ownership, ore deposits, occurrence of
chromite deposits, character of the ore,
sampling, and analysis.
Avai labi I ity: USDI, Bureau of Mines, Anchorage Office
has a copy of the original report for reproduction.
48
-------------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
----~-~--~------
Sedimentary Zeolite Deposits of the Upper
Matanuska Val ley. Hawkins, D.W., Department
of Natural Resources, Division of Geological
and Geophysical Surveys, Special Report #6
( 1963), ( I 7 p. i I Ius. ) •
Matanuska Val ley from Caribou Creek north
of Camp Creek.
Interest Level 3.
Location of areas studied, sample localities
and simplified geologic maps. (1"=1 mile).
Other i I lustrations include a Venn diagram,
various cross-sections, specimen descriptions
and mineralogy samples are tabulated. The
chemical test results for zeolite are given.
The purpose of this study was to investigate
the type and extend of zeolite in the
rocks of the Talkeetna and Matanuska formations
of the Upper Matanuska Val ley, and to determine
if deposits of economic significance were
present.
Zeolites are minerals structurally related to
the feldspars. The study search methods,
laboratory studies, economic potentials and
conclusions are included in the report.
Availability: Copies available from Department of Natural
Resources, Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys; price: $1.00.
49
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Figures:
Investigations of Alaska's Uranium Potential.
Eakins, G.R., DGGS Special Report No. 12
( 1976) (270 p. iII us. 2 part text).
Statewide, pertinent sections on Matanuska
Val ley and Susitna Lowlands.
interest Level 2.
I) Maps of the Granitic rocks and Tertiary
sediments of Alaska -Major faults and Cenozoic
Basins shown (I: 1,000,000) for each of these
regions: Central, Northern, Southwestern,
Aleutian Chain and Southeastern Alaska.
I) Stratigraphy near the lower end of the
Matanuska Valley (table).
2) Generalized geologic map of the Matanuska
Val ley showing approximate extent of Tertiary
sedimentary rocks and localities of fossi I
plants and mollusks.
3) Radioactive analyses of channel samples
from the Fishhook Creek-Archangel Creek
area of the Wi I low Creek mining district.
4) Comparison of I ithologic assemblages and
depositional environments in the eastern and
west-central Alaska Range. (p. 161).
5) Ore minerals of the Chuitna-Yentna mineral
belt (p. 178).
Description: For the Matanuska Val ley and Susitna Lowlands
descriptions are given of the following:
sedimentary rocks, igneous rocks, structure,
economic geology, and radioactive investigations.
Availability: This Special Report and mylars are
available for reproduction only from the
Division of Geologic and Geophysical Surveys.
50
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Availability:
Geology_and Mineral Deposits of the Denali-
Maclaren River Area. Kaufman, M.A,; Division
of Mines and minerals (now DGGS) Geologic
Report #4. (May 1964) (6 p.).
Near Denali, Northeastern corner Upper
Susitna River Basin.
Interest Level 3.
Geologic Map of the Denali-Maclaren Area
(1"=1 mile, contour interval 1,000 feet).
Shows the relationship between the minerals
occurrences and the regional geology.
The results of the study are a description of
alI known mineralized localities, and a
drainage geochemical study of the whole area.
Maps and descriptions are of a reconnais-
sance nature, mainly concentrating along
drainages where outcrops were relatively abundant.
Department of Natural Resources, Division
of Geological and Geophysical Surveys; price:
$1.00
51
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Stratabound Copper-Gold Occurrence, Northern
Talkeetna Mountains. Bundtzen, T.K. and
Tribe, T.C., Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys, Miscellaneous Paper 3, (1975), (7 p.
i I I us.).
Northeast corner, Talkeetna Mountains,
and southeast corner, Healy, quadrangles.
Interest Leve I I •
I) Generalized geologic map of area and
location of prospect indicated in eastern
portion of map (1"=4 miles).
2) Detailed location of prospect and sample
sites (no scale). Two tables indicate various
aspects of the analyses of samples from the
prospect site.
In 1973 an occurrence of copper and gold
bearing volcanic rocks were discovered in low
glaciated hi I Is of the northern Talkeetna
Mountains. This brief paper provides preliminary
data on this precious-metal occurrence. Regional
geology, minera·l occurrences and recommendations
for further field study are included in this
report.
Availability: Department of Natural Resources, Division
of Geologic and Geophysical Surveys; no
charge.
52
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Tables:
Description:
The .MineraI Industry of rhe. Kenai -Cook
lnlet-Susitna Region. Race, W.H. Departm8nt
of Natural Resources, Division of Mines and
Minerals, (now DGGS), (1962), (42 p.l.
AI I of Susitna Basin study area, also
Kenai and Lower Cook Inlet.
Interest Level 3.
Generalized area map of region (no scale,
for i I lustrative purposes only).
I) General Climatic Data, Kenai-Cook lnlet-
Susitna Region.
2) Wi I low Creek District Lode Mine Production -
1909-1961.
3) Matanuska Val ley Coal Production -1916-
1961.
4) Selected coal analyses for Kenai-Cook lnlet-
Susitna region. These regions are analysed:
Broad Pass, Tyonek, Beluga, Chickaloon U.S.
Navy Reservation, Eska, Jonesvi I le, Moose
Creek, Premier, and Houston. A variety of
tables also indicate wages, transportation
costs, power costs, potential water power and
selected mining industry taxes.
The report describes, for the entire region,
the following: physical features -size,
climate and topography, general geology,
mining history and production by mineral,
mineral resources, economic factors, water
supply power, and a bibliography.
53
C. GEOCHEMISTRY
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Avai labi I ity.
Geology and Geochemistry Diana Lakes Area
Western Talkeetna Mountains. Anderson, R.E.;
Division of Mines and Geology (now DGGS).
Geologic Report #34, (June 1969) (27 p.
i I I us.).
State Priority Area 2.
Interest Level 2.
Geology and Geochemistry Diana Lakes area,
Western Ta I keetna Mountains ( 5/8"= I /2 m i I e):
shows Granodiorite, Greenstone, Rhyolite,
sandstone, stream sediment sample sites,
rock sample sites and findings, and fault
and contact I ines showing direction of move-
ment. (Map has one color.)
I) Threshold and anomalous stream sediment
samples (38 samples).
2) Tabulation of geochemical stream sediment
samples with their threshold and anomalous
values.
Other tables are included.
The area of study is the western edge of the
Talkeetna Mountains between Sheep River on
the southwest and Iron Creek on the northeast.
Iron staining in the area is indicative of
a number of hydrothermal and porphyritic
mineral deposits. Another encouraging feature
for possible mineralization came from a study
of aerial photos indicating several major faults
near the iron stained sections.
Inc I uded are the fo II owing: I) Structura I geo I ogy
including faults and joints, 2) petrologic discussion
including metamorphic, intrusive, and volcanic rocks,
3) geochemical investigations of stream sediment
samples and rock samples, and 4) trend surface
analyses. Hydrothermal mineralization at several
locations were found as a result of the trend surface
analyses. These are viewed as possible target areas
for future ore mineral exploration.
Avai fable from Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geologic and Geophysical Surveys;
p r i ce : $ I • 00.
54
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Geochemical Investigations of Selected
Areas in Alaska, 1964. Jasper, M.W. Department
of Natural Resources, Division of Mines and
Minerals (now DGGS) Geochemical Report #4 (May
I 965), ( 31 p. i I I us. ) .
Selected areas within the Matanuska
Val ley and State Priority areas 1,2,and 3b.
Interest Level 2.
Illustrations: I) Vicinity map. Indicates location of
other selected area maps. (No scale, poor
qua I i ty. )
Tables:
Description:
1-A, 1-B & I-C) Glenn Highway Area. (Reduced
for reproduction, scale is approximately
1"=1 mile.) Shows anomalous sample sites.
2-A, 2-B) Anchorage-Fairbanks Highway Area
(reduced map, scale is approximately 1"=1
mile.) Non-anomalous sample locations.
3) WI I low Creek -Little Susitna River Areas,
Wi I low Creek Mining District (reduced map,
scale is approximately I"= I mile). Anomalous
and non-anomalous sample sites.
I) Presence of lead, copper, zinc, and molybdenum,
2) field tests for cold-extractable heavy metal,
3) color reaction, 4) bedrock, 5) creekfloat and
6) panned concentrations of minerals. Frequency
Distribution Graphs were prepared for each of the
above
elements in each area.
The summary section of the report suggests that
anomalies found are sufficient to encourage further
investigations in the following areas: I) Sheep
Mountain area, and 2) the moderately anomalous
copper and molybdenum locations in the Willow
Creek and the Little Susitna River Drainage areas.
The introduction explains the program to
sample sediments of accessible streams
and drainage systems. Types of exposed rock
and stream "float" were recorded at the
sample sites.
Results are interpreted for each of the four
selected areas. Geochemistry, geology
and mineralogy oj each is explained.
Avai labi I ity: Avai I able from Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys;
Price: $1.00.
55
~~-------------------------~---------·---------
'.~)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Geochemical Investigations along Highway
and Secondary' Roads in Southcentral Alaska.
Jasper, M.W.; Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Mines and Minerals, (now DGGS)
Geochem i ca I Report #7 ( J u I y 1966) , ( 32 p. i I I us. ) .
State Priority Area I, Matanuska Val ley
area as wei I as Kenai Peninsula.
Interest Level 3.
I I lustrations: I to 19) Sample location maps on topographic
quadrangles --scale, I "=I mile (estimated).
Description:
-Concentration frequency graph for copper,
lead, zinc, molybdenum, and nickel (Little
Susitna River area).
-Concentration frequency graph for copper
and lead (Matanuska Val ley to Kenai).
-Concentration frequency graph for zinc,
molybdenum and nickel.
-Table -Results of Analyses. For each site
the following information is given: I) presence
of lead, copper, zinc, molybdenum and nickel,
2) color reaction, 3) bedrock, 4) creekfloat,
and 5) concentrates.
The report includes a brief introduction,
summary, and descriptions of topography,
general geology, and mineral deposits.
Geochemical field investigation methods
are explained. Results of samples from
river and stream areas are described and
keyed to the maps.
Avai labi I ity: Avai !able from the Department of Natural
Resources, Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys; Price: $1.00.
56
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Geochemical Investigations Wi I low Creek
Southerly to Kenai Lake Region Southcentral
Alaska. Jasper, M.W., Department of Natural
Resources, Division of Mines and Minerals
(now DGGS), Geochemical Report #14. (June 1967),
(47 p. illus.).
State Priority Area I, Wi I low Creek South
to Kenai Lake.
Interest Level 3.
Illustrations: I) Diagram showing locations of figures
I to 14. CNo scale.)
2) Sample location topographic maps I to 14.
(No sea I e.)
3) Concentration frequency graph for copper,
lead, zinc, molybdenum and nickel.
4) Results of analyses. Table of mineral
occurrence for each sample, color reaction,
bedrock description, creekfloat, and other
mineral concentrates.
Description: The report Includes a summary of findings,
and an introduction to the geochemical stream
sediment sampling program. The program was part
of the state's search for trace amounts of metal I ic
minerals. Short descriptions of regional topography,
general geology, mineral deposits for the
Kenai Peninsula and Wi I low Creek Districts are
included. Geochemical field investigations are
explained and results are tabulated according to
mineraI va I ues.
Avai labi I ity: Avai I able from Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys; Price:
$1. 00. .
57
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Tables:
Description:
Avai labi I ity:
Pre I iminary Geochemistry and Geology -
Little Fal Is Creek Area, Talkeetna Mountains
Quadrangle. Anderson, R.E, Department of
Natural Resources, Division of Mines and
Minerals , (now DGGS) Geochemical Report #19.
<March 1969), (16 p. illus.).
Upper Talkeetna Sub-Basin.
Interest Level 3.
I) Geology of an area along the Talkeetna
River (3/8"=1 mile)
Tables include stream sediment samples,
occurrence of minerals (in parts per
m i II ion), rock samp I e sediments for each
sample site.
The report includes the following sections:
abstract of findings, introduction and
acknowledgement, geologic setting, petrology,
structural geology, stream sediment geochemistry,
rock sample geochemistry, capping investigations,
the Little Fal I Creek phyllite exposure and
conclusions of investigations.
Avai I able from Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys;
Price: $1 • 00.
58
--------------------------------------------------------------------~--------------~----------------
Title: Geology of an Area on the Upper Talkeetna
River, Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle.
Rose, A.W.; Division of Mines and Minerals
(now DGGS) Geologic Report #32 (Feb. 1967).
Area: State Priority Area 2.
Interest: Interest Level 3.
Map: Geology of an area along Talkeetna River
<1"=1 mile).
Description: The report contains short descriptions
of the following: regional geology; description
of nine rock units; structural geology;
economic geology; stream sediment geochemistry;
and some suggestions for prospectors.
Avai labi I ity: Department of Natural Resources, Division
of Geologic and Geophysical Surveys; Price
$1. 00.
59
D. GLACIAL GEOLOGY
Title:
/)
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Desert pt 1 on:
Quaternary Geology of the Kenai Lowland
and Glacial History of Cook Inlet. Karlstrom,
T.N.V.; USGS Professional Paper 443. (1964),
(68p. illus.).
Entire Sus i tna River Basin Area.
Interest Level 3.
Plate I) The extent of glaciation in Cook
Inlet and adjoining regions. (Scale 1"=50
miles, includes alI of Susitna Basin.)
Plate 2) Climatic zonation, regional snow! ine
and present and past distribution of glacial
ice in southwestern, southcentral and southeastern
Alaska (1:5,000,000; l"=approx. 80 miles).
Concentrated study is on Kenai lowland.
Cook Inlet lowlands are subdivided by major
physiographic provinces, i.e. Kenai lowland,
Kustatan lowland, Susitna lowland, and lower
Matanuska lowland.
The geologic history as it relates to glaciation
is discussed for each lowland area. Stratigraphy
of coastal bogs; fauna and the Pleistocene age is
described.
60
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
East of Mount McKi n I ey Reconnaissance
Glacialogical and Geological Survey. Carter,
H.A., American Alpine Journal, v. I I, No.2,
issue 33, p. 201-207. (1959).
Upper Talkeetna Sub-basin.
Interest Level 3.
This is a brief report on reconnaissance
glaciation and geological survey of the
Eldridge Glacier region. Measurements of
accumulation, ablation, and movement of
the glacier were made and compared with
earlier results.
(Abstract from Geology Bibliography, by
Wil I iam N. Sharik, for USDI National Park
Service, Alaska Task Force, August 1972.)
Avai labi I ity: Copies may be ordered from the publishing journal.
61
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Ava i I b i I i ty:
(]
Late Wisconsin and Recent History of the
Matanuska Glacier, Alaska. Williams, J.R.,
and Ferrains, O.J., Geol. Soc. Am. Oul I.
v.69, no. 12, p. 1757 (1958)
Matanuska Va II ey.
Interest Level 3.
The report describes past positions indicated by
moraines and marginal channels of this glacier,
which has had only minor horizontal retreat,
but considerable thinning since 1898. The
glacier fi I led the Matanuska Val ley, terminating
between Anchorage and Wi I low, during Wisconsin
time.
(Abstract from Geology Bib! iography, by W.N.
Sharik, for USDI, National Park Service,
Alaska Task Force, August 1972. Entry 137.)
Copies may be ordered from the pub! ishing journal.
62
E. PALEONTOLOGY
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Early Cretaceous (Albian) Ammonites from
The Chitina Val ley and the Talkeetna Mountains.
lm I ay, W. R.; USGS Profession a I Paper 354-D,
( 1960), (26 p. iII us.).
Caribou Creek area, Upper Matanuska Va II ey.
Interest Level 3.
The report describes marine fossils found
in two regions of the state, primarily from
the Early Cretaceous age.
Description of these particular fossi Is is
used as an aid in geologic mapping, and as a
means of interpreting local geologic history
in terms of events elsewhere.
Albian ammonities have been found in the
Talkeetna Mountains at only two places, one
near the head of Bi I ly Creek and the other
near the head of Flume Creek.
63
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Tertiary Stratigraphy and Paleobotany
of the Cook Inlet Region, Alaska. Wolfe,
J.S.; Hopkins, D.M. and Leopold, E.B., USGS
Professional Paper 398-A, (1966), (29 p.
illus.).
Cook Inlet Region.
Interest Level 3.
I) Map showing distribution of Neogene
Rocks in the Cook Inlet Region. (I: 1,000,000)
Foss! I localities and general geologic formations
are shown on this shaded map.
2) Structure section between Capps Glacier
and Lower Chuitna River (1"=1 mile).
3) Map of Cook Inlet region, showing areas
covered by previous reports. (I "=30 m i I es,
approximately, generalized area sketch).
Three tables include checklists, by regions
within the lower Susitna and Chiutna Rivers,
of megafossi I flora found in Seldovian,
Homerian and Clamgulchian units.
The report abstract explains that three new
provincial time-stratigraphic units (the
Seldovian, Homerian, and Clamgulchian Stages)
are proposed which encompass a I I pI antbea ring
strata in Alaska. Rocks belonging to these
three stages are recognized and distinguished
from one another primarily by fossi I plants.
These nonmarine sedimentary rocks are of
considerable economic importance in that they
contain, coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
Early studies of the sedimentary rocks of
Cook Inlet are explained because of their
coal value.
A section discussing the evolution of stratigraphic
nomenclature and age assignments is helpful
in understanding the remainder of the report.
References are cited in a final section.
64
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
Ava i I b i I i ty:
Lithology and Palynology of Tertiary
Rocks Exposed Near Capps Glacier and Along
Chuitna River, Tyonek Quadrangle. Adkison,
Kelley, and Newman; USGS Open file report 75-
121; (58p), (1975) Cooperative Agreement with
DGGS & USGS.
State Priority Area 4a and 4b.
Interest Level 3.
I) Stratigraphic sections of Kenai Group
near Capps Glacier and along Chuitna River,
Tyonek Quad (I "=400 miles).
2) Location of measured sections map (no
sea I e).
3) Five cross sections of Westforeland and
Tyonek formations are depicted.
Checklist of palynomorph taxa pol len in measured
sections, Kenai Group.
The report is part of a study to provide
stratigraphic control to aid in the search
for oi I and gas in the Cook Inlet basin. The
report inc I udes these sections: I ntroduc-
tion, Tertiary rocks, Kenai Group, Westforeland
formation, Tyonek Formation. Stratigraphic
sections are described in detai I, including
palynological samples (pol len of seed plants and
their dispersal) and rock types.
USGS Public Inquiries Office Copy available
for reproduction.
65
F. STRATIGRAPHY
Title:
··~
Area:
Interest:
Maps:.
Table:
Description:
·.~
Variation in Rank of Tertiary Coals in
The Cook Inlet Basin. Barnes, F.F.; USGS
Professional Paper 450-C; Short Papers in
Geology and Hydrology, Article 60-119.
(1962), (3 Page xerox copy; page C-14 through
C-16).
Includes priority area I, 3a, 4a and 4b;·
Cook Inlet Basin region.
Interest level 3.
I) Index map of Cook Inlet Basin, showing
sampled coal localities in the Matanuska
Coal field. (2cm: 25 miles, approximately).
2) Index map of Anchorage quadrangle, showing
sampled coal localities in the Matanuska Coal
field. ( 2cm: 25 miles, approximately).
I) Analyses of coals in the Cook Inlet Basin.
The following data is given for the Kenai,
Matanuska and Susitna coal fields: sample
locality; the percent of moisture, volatile
matter, fixed carbon, ash and sulfur; heating
value (btu); moist mineral-matter-free (btu).
The paper analyses the data and coal-bed
samples and drasw some conclusions. Conclusions
concern the age and depth; load metamorphism,
and regional metamorphism of the Tertiary coals.
66
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Table:
Description:
Geochronology a General !zed Geology of The
Central Alaska Range, Clearwater Mountains
and Northern Talkeetna Mountains. Turner,
D.L. and Smith, T.E.; DGGS Alaska Open File
72 (October 1974).
Eastern Upper Susitna River.
Interest Level 2.
Shows geochronology and generalized geology
of the Central Alaska Range, Clearwater
Mountains and Northern Talkeetna Mountains
(scale 1:250,000) key to layered and intrusive
rocks.
Analytical data for K-Ar (radioactive) age
determinations.
The purpose of this map and table of potassium
argon measurements is to make the basic data
of the study avai I able in advance of a formal
pub I !cation.
Avai labi I ity: Alaska Open File reports and my Iars are
available for reproduction from the Department
of Natural Resources, Division of Geological
and Geophysical Surveys.
67
Title:
Area:
Regional Gravity Survey of Beluga Basin
and Ad.jacent Area, Cook Inlet Region, South
Central Alaska. Hackett, S.W.; Department of
Natural Resources, Division of Geological and
Geophysical Surveys, Alaska Open File #100,
(October 13, 1975),(39 p. i I Ius.)
Cook Inlet Basin including Central Susitna.
River Basin.
Interest: Interest Level 2.
I I lustrations: A total of 36 i I lustrations are included.
Description:
Ava i I b i I i ty:
Most are generalized regional maps of mediocre
quality used to i I lustrate portions of the
accompanying text. Types of II lustrations
include (but are not I imited to): ERTS-1
Mosaic of Beluga Basin; new gravity stations;
gravity maps; geophysical profiles and structural
cross sections; earthquake hypocenter distribution
studies; various geology maps; oi I, gas,
coal, metal I ic mineral, uranium, and geothermal
resource potentials in Cook Inlet region.
The report indicates that the tectonic frame-
work of the region differs in many respects
from that previously pub! !shed. The area of
major tectonic concern contains I) the
junction of the Alaska and Aleutian mountains,
2) the termination of the active Aleutian
volcanic arc, 3) the junction of several
major fault systems, and 4) gas; oi I, and
coal-bearing sedimentary basins of Tertiary
areas.
The introduction explains the source of
report data; gravity survey; structural
features and tectonic e I ements. It describes
the potential for petroleum, coal, minerals,
uranium and geothermal energy. A paragraph
summarizes the usefulness of the data included
in the text.
Copy available for reproduction from Division
of Geological and Geophysical Surveys, Department
of Natural Resources.
68
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Preliminary Report on Stratigraphy of
Kenai Group, Upper Cook Inlet. Hartman,
D.C., Pessel, G.H., McGee, D.L.; Department
of Natural Resources, Division of Geologic
Survey, Special Report No. 5, (July 1972),
(6 p. 10 plates.).
Cook Inlet Basin.
Interest Level 2.
I I lustrations: Four Stratigraphic correlation cross-
sections are included for the Northern Kenai
Peninsula and Northeastern Cook Inlet.
Description:
Isopach maps (6) are included for each formation
of the Kenai Group, as wei I as for the total
thickness of the Group. These maps show
thickness penetrated by wei Is, and wei I
location. Map scales are I :500,000.
The report area includes alI of the inter-
mountain trough that is the Cook Inlet Basin,
to the Alaska Range and the Castle Mountain
fault on the South, and on the southeast to
the Chugach Mountains. The report is a
summary interpretation of presently-known
stratigraphy of the Kenai Group, where nearly
alI Cook Inlet wei Is have been dri I led. Each
formation is described. A summary and conclusions
section is included.
Availabi I ity: Report is out of print. File copy is stored
at Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys for reference purposes.
69
Title:
.·:)
Area:
Interest:
Description:
)
Guidebook to The Quarternary Geology Central and
Southcentral Alaska. Pewe, T.L. (editor); reprinted
by Department of Natural Resources, Division of Geo-
logic and Geophysical Surveys, (1977), (141 p. illus.).
Reprinted from a guidebook for a field conference
of the International Association for Quarternary
Research (1965).
Central and Southcentral Alaska, including Upper
Cook Inlet and Matanuska Val ley areas.
Interest Level I.
Five major areas are considered: the Fairbanks area,
the central Tanana River area, the Delta River area
of the Alaska Range, the Copper River Basin, the
Upper Cook Inlet area and the Matanuska River Val ley.
Marine, fluvial, lacustrine, glacial, eolian and
periglacial deposits of Quarternary age are present
and being·formed today. Landslide areas and archaeo-
logical references are also included in this report.
For the purposes of this work, only the section of this
report dealing with Upper Cook Inlet and the Matanuska
River Bal ley wil I be described.
The vegetation, climate and topography of the region
are alI briefly described. The five periods of Pleistocene
glaciation are described in detai 1. Included are detai Is
of the Naptowne advances, recession of glaciation in
the Matanuska Val ley and the process of radiocarbon and
ionium/uranium radio dating methods.
A road log and locality description of the Matanuska
Va.l ley are included.
A variety of maps of a general nature are presented.
Most maps are excerpts from other, more detailed,
geologic work. The report's usefulness is, as its
title suggests, as a guidebook to geology, archaeology
and the general physical setting of the areas
described.
70
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Tables:
Maps:
Reconnaissance Geologic Investigation
in the Talkeetnq Mountains, Csejtey, B. Jr.;
USGS Open File Report 74-147 (53 p. il Ius) 1974
State Priority Areas 2 and 3b; Talkeetna
Mountains Area.
Interest Level 2.
I) Chemical data of representative bedrock
samples; Watana Lake area. (14 chemicals).
2) Chemical data of representative bedrock
samples; Talkeetna Mountains C-4 quad, Talkeetna
Mountains.
3) Chemical and model data of representative
bedrock samples from part of Talkeetna Mountains
A-5 quad.
4) Potassium-argon age determinations on
biotite and hornblende mineral pairs for
plutonic rocks of the A-5 quad.
I) Index map showing locations of the
three geologically mapped areas of the
Talkeetna Mountains (1"=50 miles approx.)
2) Generalized geologic map of the Talkeetna
Mountains (1"=50 miles approximately).
3) Geologic map of the Watana Lake area
(I: 63,360 contour i nterva I I 00').
4) Geologic map of a part of the Talkeetna
Mountains C-4 quad; Talkeetna Mountains
(1:63,360, contour intervals 100 1 ).
5) Geologic map of the A-5 Quad (I :63,360,
contour interval 100 1 ).
6) Plutonic rock nomenclature used in this
report (diagram).
7) Model diagram, and plots of K20 against
Sio2 for plutonic rocks of the A-5 quad.
7 1
)
Description:
8) Generalized tectonic map of southcentral
A I aska ( I"= I 00 m i I es).
The contents include the following sections:
Introduction; geologic setting of the Talkeetna
Mountains; previous work; geology of the
Watana Lake area; geology of a part of the
Talkeetna Mountains (C-4 quad and A-5 quad);
Talkeetna Mountains batholithic complex;
tectonics; reports and references.
Avai labi I ity: USGS Public Inquiries Office, copy avai !able
for reproduction only.
72
Title:
. Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
An Analysis of Earthquake Intensities
and Recurrence Rates in and near Alaska.
Meyers, H., Brazee, R.J., Coffman and Lessig;
National Geophysical and Solar-Terrestrial
Data Center, Boulder, Colorado, (NOAA Technical
Memorandum EDS NGSDC-3); (October 1976), (101
p. with microfiche in pocket).
Statewide .
Interest Level 3.
I) Statewide map shows the ~lat of m~ximum
intensities reported in Alaska, 1786-1974.
2) 4 lsoseismal maps of earthquakes, March
27, 1964 -October 29, 1968.
3) Projected maximum intensities of earthquakes
in and near Alaska, 1786-1974.
Numerous tables depict such data as:
intensities, frequencies, magnitude-distance
relationship, recurrence rate of earthquakes
by magnitude and geographic coordinates.
Microfiche in pocket includes I) an alpha-
betical I ist of earthquake felt reports, and 2)
chronological list of earthquake-felt reports.
This publ !cation analyzes and summarizes
the intensity data and recurrence rates of
earthquakes in Alaska. It also describes the
intensity file, the formats in which intensity
data are avai I able, and the sources and
I imitations of the data. Two sections are
included titled "Maximum Earthquake Intensities
in Alaska using a Magnitude-Maximum Intensity
Conversion" and "Magnitude-Frequency Relationships."
The parameters included for each earthquake, when
avai I able, are: date, origin time, epicenter,
magnitude, focal depth, intensity and geographic
coordinates for each reporting city, and the
distance of each city from the earthquake
source. The file (in pocket on microfiche)
does not include effects of Alaska Tsunamis.
73
/) :_-
IV. MAPS: GEOLOGY
A. GEOCHEMICAL
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Geochemical Anomalies in The Wi I low Creek
Mininq District, Talkeetna Mountains Mat-Su
Borough. Si !berman, O'Leary, Peterson and
Csejtey; USGS Open File report 76-191 (5
plates), (release date February 1976).
State Priority Area I.
Interest Leve I 1.
I) Distribution of Copper in the Wi I low
Creek Mining District (scale I :24.000).
2) Distribution of lead in the Wi I low Creek
Mining District (scale 1:24,000).
3) Distribution of zinc in the Wi I low Creek
Mining District (scale I :24,000).
4) Copper enrichment in the Wi I low Creek
Mining District (scale 1:24,000).
5) Lead enrichment in the Wi I low Creek Mining
District (scale 1:24,000).
The same description of the Wi I low Creek
Mining District is included on each of the
five plates. The maps include a geologic
description, the methods of analyses, conclusions
and references.
74
Tit lo:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Map Showing Geology, Wildcat Wei Is, Tertiary
Plant Fossi I Localities, K-AR age dates, and
Petroleum Operations, Cook Inlet Area,
Alaska. Magoon, L.B., Adkison, W.L., and
Egbert, R.M.; USGS Miscellaneous Investigations
Series 1-1019 ( 1976).
Includes State Priority Areas 4a, 4b and
the Matanuska Val ley.
Interest Leve I I.
Sheet I) Scale 1:250,000 contour inverval 200
feet (some 100 foot contours). Upper Cook
Inlet map showing geology, wildcat wei Is,
tertiary plant fossi I localities, radioactive
age dates, and petroleum operations.
Sheet 2) Scale I :250,000 contour interval 200
feet. (Some information as above is shown
for the Kenai Peninsula and Lower Cook Inlet
Region).
Sheet 3) Index Sheet includes the following
data:
-126 Ter-tiary Plant Fossi I localities;
includes stages, formations, location.
-Petroleum operations and Wildcat wei Is
are I isted by company, name, number,
total depth, and deepest rock unit.
-72 Potassium-argon or radioactive age
dates, includes rock type, mineral
dated, age and location.
-List of pipelines, the owner/operator,
commodity, origin and destination.
-Production faci !ties, the owner/operator,
location, the oi I field being served,
design function, commodity, and destination.
-Refinery/Petrochemical Facilities; the
owner, faci I ity, location field being
served, daily capacity and products.
-Tanker loading faci I ities
-Status of Petroleum resources
75
)
Maps:
(con-f)
Shee-r 3 a I so inc I udes an i ndox rn<J[J ',h(JW i WJ
principal sources of geologic da-t-<J on
shoo-t-s I and 2.
Availabili-t-y: USGS Public Inquiries Office: price l4.L~.
76
B. GEOPHYSICAL
I)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Aeromagnetic Maps for Talkeetna, Talkeetna
Mountains and Tyonek. DGGS; Alaska Open Fi 18
Reports #19, 20 & 21, (June 1973).
Upper Talkeetna Sub-basin.
Interest level 3.
Scale 1:63,360 original mylar is open filed.
Scale 1:250,000 of USGS Quadrangel is open
f i I ed.
1971-1973 data: The survey of light I ines
are spaced 3/4 mile apart and at 1000 1 where
pass i b I e. 1974 data: Survey I i nes were
flown I mile apart 15 mile tie lines.
Avai labi I ity: Avai !able for reproduction from Division of
Geologic and Geophysical Surveys.
77
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Topographic and Geologic Map of the Knob
Creek Area of The Wishbone Hi I I District,
Matanuska Coal Field. Barnes, F.F.: USGS
Coal Investigations Map C-51 ( 1962).
Matanuska Val ley Northeast to Knob Creek.
Interest Leve I 1.
Scale 1:6,000; (1"=500 feet) contour interval
20 feet.
Stratigraphic section of south slope of
Knob Ridge. Sections of coal beds in the
Knob Creek area map known occurrences of
coal and bony coal, bone and coaly shale,
claystone, siltstone, and silty claystone,
sandstone, ironstrone concretions, faults, and
the stratigraphic position of the coal sections.
The map includes a written description of
the following: introduction to the mapped
area, stratigraphy, Matanuska formation,
Chickaloon Formation, quaternary deposits,
structure and coal.
78
Title:
Areas:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Surface Geology and Holocene_Breaks along
the Susitna Segment of the Castle Mountain
fault. Delterman, Plafker, Hudson, Tysdal
and Puvoni.; USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies
618 ( 1974)
Priority area I.
Interest Leve I I
I) "Surface Geology Orthophoto mosaic prepared
from 1974 photography," (scale 1:24,000).
2) "Index map showing location of Castle
Mountain Fault and this map." (1"=1 mile).
3) "Map showing location of strip map segments
and major physiographic provinces." (I: I ,000,000).
The map includes these sections: description
of the Castle Mountain fault, location of
fault breaks, field recognition and classification
of Holocene faulting, age of fault breaks,
and an annotated bib! iography. Map symbols
and terms are explained, map units are correlated
by geologic age, and map units (types of
deposits) are described.
79
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
~-------~---~~------
Geology and Surface Features Along Part
of the Talkeetna Segment of the Castle Mountain -
Caribou Fault System. Delterman, R.L.,
Platter, G., Tysdal, Russell, and Hudson, T.;
USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies 738 ( 1976)
State Priority Area I.
I nte rest Leve I I .
I) Reconnaissance geologic map (scale
I : 63, 3360) .
2) Index map showing location of Castle
Mountain fault and area of detailed map
(1/2"=100 km).
3) Strip map showing surface features of the
Castle Mountain fault (where it crosses part
of the Susitna Lowland, scale I: 1,000,000).
4) Cross sections of Castle Mountain Fault
and Caribou Fault.
The map and accompanying narrative delineate
and evaluate geologic hazards related to
earthqaukes along the Castle Mountain fault.
The map delineates fault traces, large
i nd i vi dua I I ands I ides and areas of potentia I
landslides. The map includes a correlation
of units (geologic ages), description of
units, and an explanation of map symbols.
The map narrative includes these sections:
general characteristics of the Castle Mountain
fault system, field recognition of fault
trace, seismicity, special features along the
Talkeenta segment of the Castle Mountain
fault-system, lands! ide hazards and an annotated
b i b I i og rap h y.
80
J
C. RECONNAISSANCE GEOLOGY
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Table:
Description:
Availability:
\ )
Reconnaissance Engineering Geology For Selection
of Highway Route From Talkeetna to McGrath, Alaska.
Weber, F.R.; U.S. Geologic Survey Open File Report
(Map) 61-169, (1961), (Map, limited text).
State Priority Area 2.
Interest Level 2.
I) Reconnaissance Engineering Geologic Map for Selections
of possible road routes between Talkeetna and McGrath
( 1:250,000 scale, 200 feet contour intervals; mapped
1959-1960).
I) Description of Units: Work done on behalf of the
U.S. Bureau of Pub I ic Roads. Includes descriptions of
the following: I ithology, terrain, vegetation, drainage,
permafrost, susceptabi I ity to frost action, bearing
strength and slope stabi I ity, excavation and compaction,
and evaluation for road construction and maintenance.
Descriptions correspond to mapping units.
2) Mechanical Analysis of Samples (graph).
This is a photogeologic report designed to provide a
general basis for determination of road routes and
is concerned only with the geologic factors as they
would affect construction. Two possible highway
extensions were considered, one extending west
from Talkeetna and the other west from the vicinity
of FIat Lake.
The geography, physiography, climate, glaciation and
permafrost of the region are briefly described in
the accompanying map description.
May be ordered from: Technical Data Unit, Alaska
Geology Branch USGS, 345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park,
California 94025.
81
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
--~---------~--~-~-~~~-~-----------·--------------~----
Reconnaissance Geologic Map Along Bruin
Bay and Lake Clark Faults in Kenai and Tyonek
Quadrangles. Delterman, R.L., Hudson, R.,
Plafker, G. Tysdal and Houre; USGS Open File
Report 76-477 (Release date July 1976).
State Priority Areas .
Interest Level I.
Open File map 76-477 (I :250,000) (Pre I iminary
map has not been reviewed for conformity).
Index map showing location of faults and area
mapped. ( 1"=50 miles, approximately).
Description: The purpose of the map is to describe the
general features, determine if there is
evidence of Holocene displacement along the
Bruin Bay and Lake Clark faults, and report
the distribution of major geologic units.
·The four page map narrative includes these
descriptions of areas of discussion: general
geology, Bruin Bay fault, Lake Clark fault,
conclusions and references.
The map includes location of surficial,
lands I ide and glacial deposits; formations;
rocks; and minerals by geologic ages.
Contacts, faults, I ineaments and shear zones
are also mapped.
82
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Reconnaissance Geology -South Central
Talkeetna Mountains. McGee, D.L. and Henning,
M.W.; DGGS Open File Report #103, (Feb.
1977).
Talkeetna Subbasin-Kings River, Chickaloon
River area.
Interest Level I.
I"= I mile; base map is taken from USGS
Anchorage, (A-3),(A-4),(0-4),(0-5),(D-6)
quad rang I es.
Geologic formations by ages are presented.
They include the following: Tertiary (Cenozoic) -
sedimentary and volcanic rocks, and Chickaloon
formation; Early Jurassic-Talkeetna formation;
Undifferentiated-meta-argi I I ite and marble
(I imestone); Mesozoic-Plutonic rocks;
granodiortie, quartz, diorite. The following
tnfonnallon 1~ al~o llla!J!JeJ fr·urrr lire leL.ulllrcd::.::.aiiL-8
field investigation: Contacts, faults,
thrust fault, antic! ines, sync! ines, and
strike and dip of beds are depicted on the map.
83
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Scale:
Description:
Geologic Map of Talkeetna Mountains (A2)
Quadrangle, and the Contiguous Area to the
North and Northwest. Grantz, Arthur; USGS
Miscellaneous Geologic Investigations Map 1-
313 ( 1960).
Upper Susitna Basin.
Interest Level 1.
I :48,000; I 1/4"=1 mile; contour interval 100'.
The map presents reconnaissance geology in the
vicinity of the Oshetna, Little Oshetna and
Nelchina Rivers. Formations within the
Jurassic, Cretaceous, Tertiary and Quaternary
ages are identified. Faults, folds, anticlines
and· synclines, and attitudes of beds are
shown on the map.
Two cross sections are shown.
84
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Scale:
Description:
,)
Geologic Map of Talkeetna Mountains
(A-1) Quadrangle, and the South Third of
Talkeetna Mountains (B-1) Quadranqle. Grantz,
Arthur; USGS Miscellaneous Geologic Investigations
Map 1-314 ( 1960).
Upper Susitna Basin.
Interest Leve I I.
I :48,000, I 1/4"=1 mile, contour interval
I 00 1 •
The following data is symbolized and mapped
for these geologic ages:
I) Quaternary-rock glaciers, alluvial
deposits, tallus and colluvium, landslide
deposits, glacial deposits.
2) Tertiary-fluviatile conglomerate and
coaly sandstone.
3) Cretaceous -siltstone and shale (Matanuska
formation); cobble conglomerate; Calcareous
sandstone, siltstone and claystone; Nelchina
I imestone.
4) Jurassic -Naknek formation, Chinitna
formation, sandstone, Tuxedni formation,
Talkeenta formation.
The map also shows contacts, faults, anticlines,
sync I ines, strike and attitude of beds.
Two map cross sections are included.
85
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Scale:
Description:
Geologic Map of Lower Matanuska Val ley.
Barnes, F.F.; USGS Miscellaneous Investigations
Map 1-359 (1962).
State Priority Area I; Matanuska Val ley
to Chi cka I oon.
Interest Leve I I •
I :63,360, contour interval 100 feet.
The map presents, on a topographic base,
the character, distribution, structure and
relations of the coal-bearing Chickaloon
formation and associated rocks of the Matanuska
coal field. The map narrative describes
these rocks and formations: bedded rocks,
Talkeetna, Naknek, unnamed I imestone, Arkose
ridge, Matanuska, Chickaloon, Wishbone and
Tsadaka Formations, basaltic lava and tuff,
intrusive rocks, unconsolidated quaternary
deposits, structure and coal.
The coal description explains that the principal
coal resources of the Matanuska coal field are in
the Wishbone Hi I I District, in which the
estimated remaining reserves are about 100
mil I ion tons. Knob Creek, Chickaloon District,
and Little Granite Creek coal reserves are
also described. Cross sections are included.
86
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Table:
Description:
Generalized Geologic_~_of The Alaska-Aleutian
Range_ Batho I i th Showing Potassium-Argon Ages Q_f_
The Plutonic Rocks. Reed, B.L., and Lanphere, M.A.;
USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies Map -MR372 C 1972)
(2 map sheets)
Southcentral and Southwestern Alaska.
Interest Level 3.
I) Generalized Geologic Map of the Alaska-Aleutian
Range Batholith Showing Potassium-Argon Ages of the
Plutonic Rocks, (3"=50 miles).
Potassium-Argon ages and analytical data.
The brief description explains that age assignments of
plutonic rocks in the Alaska-Aleutian Range batholith
are based on potassium-argon measurements of 130 rock
samples of various types.
87
D. MINERAL RESOURCES
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
)
Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of The
Mount McKinley Quadrangle. Cobb, E.H.; USGS
Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 366 ( 1972)
Northern most portion of Talkeetna Sub-
basin.
Interest Leve I I.
1:250,000; contour interval 200 feet.
Lode and placer deposits are identified
by name, principal reference of geologic
investigation and commodity.
88
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Meta I I i c MineraI Resources Map _ _Qf_ the
Talkeetna Quadrangle. Clark, A. and Cobb,
E.; USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 369
(1972).
State Priority Area 3b in Upper Talkeetna
Sub-basin.
Interest Leve I I.
I :250,000 contour interval 200 feet.
Lode and placer deposits are identified
by name, principal reference of geologic
investigation and commodity.
89
J
Title:
C)
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Meta IIi c MineraI __ Resources ~ of the
Talkeetna Mountains Quqdrangle. Cobb, [.;
USGS Miscel raneous Field Studies Map 370
( 1972).
State Priority Areas 2 and 3b in Talkeetna
Sub-basin.
Interest Leve I I.
I :250,000 contour interval 200 feet.
Lode and placer deposits are identified
by name, principal reference of geologic
investigation and commodity.
90
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Metallic Mineral Resources~ __ 2.f__The
Tyonek_Quadrangle. Cobb., E.H.; USGS Miscellaneous
Field Studies Map 385 ( 1972).
Portions of State Priority Areas 3a, 4a
and 4b.
I nte rest Leve I I .
I :250,000, contour interval 200 feet.
The lode and float occurrences, placer
deposits are identified by location name,
principal reference of investigating geologist
and commodity.
91
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Meta I I i c _MineraI . Resources Map of The
Healy Quadrangle. Clark, A. and Cobb, E.;
USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 394
( 1972)
Upper Talkeetna Sub-basin and Upper Susitna
Sub-basin.
Interest Level 2.
1:250,000, contour interval 200 feet.
The location, name, or owner, principal
references and commodity are indicated for
lode and placer deposits.
92
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of The
Anchorage Quadrangle. Cobb, C.H.; USGS
Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 409 ( 1972)
State Priority Area I; Matanuska Val ley.
Interest Leve I I.
1:250,000, contour interval 200 feet.
Lode and placer deposits are identified
by name, principal reference and commodity.
93
)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
:J
Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of the
Mount Hayes Quadrangle. Cobb, E.H.; USGS
Miscellaneous Field Studies Map 414 ( 1972)
Most Northeastern portion of Upper Susitna
Basin.
Interest Level 2.
1:250,000; contour interval 200 feet.
The location name or owner, principal
references and commodity are indicated for
lode and placer deposits. Commodities,
inc I ude chrom i te, copper, go I d, I ead, mercury,
platinum-group materials, silver, tungsten,
zfnc and monazite.
94
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Map:
Description:
Metal I ic Mineral Resources Map of The
Gulkana Quadrangle. Richter, D.H. and Matson,
N.S.; USGS Miscellaneous Field Studies Map
419 ( 1972)
Southeastern part of Upper Susitna Sub
Basin.
Interest Level 2.
I :250,000, contour interval 200 feet.
The name, principal references and commodity
are indicated for lode deposits and placer
deposits. Few, if any, are located within
the Upper Sustina Basin.
95
VI. ONGOING PROJECTS: GEOLOGY
CJ
Project: Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program
( AMRAP).
Contact: Henry C. Berg, USGS, Branch of Alaskan
Geology, 345 Middle Field Road; Menlo Park, California
94025; ( 4 15) 323-81 I I , ext. 2266.
Area: Statewide.
Description: The Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program
Status:
Duration:
CAMRAP) began in 1976 in response to the pub( ic and
private concern about the classification, allocation and
development of Alaska's lands. One objective of the
program, based on a I :250,000 scale quadrangle format, is
a systematic assessment of terrains having high economic
mineral potential. The other objective, based on a
I: 1,000,000 scale map format, is a synoptic mineral
appraisal of the 83.47 mi I lion acres proposed for class-
ification as national interest (D-2) lands (for the
Department of the Interior).
lnforamlly termed "RAMRAP" (Regional AMRAP), this program
is scheduled for completion by early 1978. Geologists
from the Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys,
the University of Alaska, and the Bureau of Mines are
also participants in the program.
Of importance to the Susitna basin, are these general
resource assessment reevaluations:
-New potential resources of molybdenum, chromite,
gold, and tin were discovered in the Talkeetna
quadrangle.
-Significant increases were recognized in size of
copper deposits in the Ketchikan and Talkeetna
Mountains quadrangles.
More than 20 AMRAP sponsored research reports
on geology, geochemistry, geophysics and mineral resources
are published, to date. Pertinent reports are included
in this bibliography.
Regional Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program,
1976 through 1978.
96
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Alaska Geochemical Analysis
Elizabeth Yount; US Geological Survey,
Branch of Alaskan Geology; 345 Middlefield
Road; Menlo Park, California 94025; (415)
323-81 II ext. 2477 .
Statewide.
This is an ongoing project aimed at providing
computer-based technical data files, and
maintaining contact with other agencies that
compile or create files of Alaskan geologic
or resource data.
Special emphasis is presently being given to
the computer files of Alaskan geochemical
analyses. The files are stored in Denver,
Colorado using a file system cal led RASS.
Methods of access, manipulation of data, and
additional data is being added to these files
to provide a better tool for the current
mineral resource assessment of Alaskan lands.
Priority is being given to updating stream sediment
analysis records from Central Alaska. It is anti-
cipated that the entire process can be completed in
slightly more than a year.
Ongoing project.
97
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle,
Geologic Mapping.
Bela Csejtey, Jr.; US Geologic Survey;
345 Middlefield Road; Menlo Park, California
94025; (415)323-8111 ext 2277.
Upper Ta I keetna Sub-basin .
The objectives of the program are the
evaluation of the mineral resources of the
quadrangle (part of AMRAP), through reconnaissance
geologic, geochemical, geophysical and
telegeologic mapping. Fieldwork includes: I)
regional geologic mapping at 1:250,000 scale
and detailed mapping of mineralized areas; 2)
a geochemical survey uti I izing stream-
sediment, soi I, and mineralized-bedrock
samples; 3) sampling of mineral deposits for age
determinations and for trace-element studies;
and 4) completion of a regional gravity
survey.
Geologic mapping in about 90 percent of
the quadrangle was completed in June 1976.
Geochemical sampling was carried out in the
western third of the quad in 1975. Geochemical
sampling, gravity measurements and geophysical
fieldwork was finished during July 1977.
Processing of geochemical samples and geophysical
data is in progress.
A pre I iminary geologic map covering alI but
the northern most part of the Talkeetna
Mountains is scheduled to be published during
the winter ( 1977). Pub I ication of final
reports is planned for late 1978.
1974 through 1978.
98
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Talkeetna Quadrangle, Mineral Resource Evaluation.
Bruce L. Reed, Project Chief: US Geologic
Survey; 1209 Orca Street; Anchorage, Alaska
99501; 272-8228.
Upper Talkeetna Sub-basin and Upper Beluga
Sub-basin.
The objective is the evaluation of the mineral
resources of the quadrangle through reconnaissance
geologic, geochemical, geophysical and telegeologic
mapping. Fieldwork consists of: I) geologic
mapping at I :250,000 scale; 2) geochemical investi-
gations, primarily through the use of sediment and
various methods of rock sampling, to delineate areas
of metal enrichment; 3) an aeromagnetic survey
and interpretation to support the geologic mapping;
4) regional gravity survey; and 5) mapping of selected
areas to Tertiary sedimentary rocks to assess their
coal potential.
The project is part of the Alaska Mineral Resource
Assessment Program CAMRAP).
Fieldwork and mapping was completed during
the summer (1977).
Maps and a final report are presently in
printing and wi I I be pub( ished as Miscel Ianeous
Field series number 870.
Three year project, 1974-1977.
99
Project:
-)
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
)
Beluga Coal Fields, Reserves on State
Lands.
Don McGee, Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys
279-7691 .
State Priority areas 4a, and 4b Beluga Coal Fields.
The physical parameters of the Beluga coal
reserves are in the process of being mapped.
The objective is to delineate coal reserves with
the best commercial value potential. The project
is designed to provide the State with information
of value in the formulation of leasing policies
on State lands in the Beluga fields.
The preliminary report will utilize the
1:63,360 scale map prepared for the "Proposed
Land Trade, Capps, Glacier-Beluga Areas, Land
Evaluation and Coal Reserve Study".
A pre I iminary report ( 10 to 15 pages, approx-
imately) and map are expected to be transmitted
to Fred Boness, Deputy Commissioner, Department
of Natural Resources by mid-September 1977.
Unknown.
100
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Analysis of Faults in the Matanuska and
Sus i tna Va I I eys,
Ross Schaff; Division of Geological and
Geophysical Surveys (Project by Ronald Bruhn,
University of Utah); 3001 Porcupine Drive;
Anchorage, Alaska; 274-8602.
Eastern part Susitna Val ley and Matanuska
Va I ley.
Reconnaissance investigation of the eastern
segment of the Castle Mountain fault system
in the Matanuska/Susitna Valleys. The primary
objective is to determine the location,
frequency, magnitude and trends of faulting.
Pub I ishing of a final report wi I I await
results of Carbon 14 age dating. However,
pre I iminary information is scheduled for
pub! ication in the DGGS, Mines and Minerals
Bulletin in September 1977.
December 1977, preliminary report.
101
_)
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
J
Evaluation of Bedrock Geology of the South
Side Matanuska Val ley.
Don McGee; Division of Geological and
Geophysical Surveys; 3001 Porcupine Drive;
Anchorage, Alaska; 274-8602.
Matanuska Val ley; eastern part of Susitna
Valley.
Part of an ongoing evaluation program that
includes surficial geology and bedrock geology,
with emphasis on coal outcrops in Chickaloon
Formation, and an examination of geologic
hazards.
Approximately one-third of the investigation
has been completed, with notes and maps used
in field investigation. Work has been temporarily
discontinued.
No estimate of completion date; work has been
temporarily discontinued.
102
Pr(.)ject:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:.
Duration:
Mineral Exploration, Cities Service Minerals Corporation
Earl Redman; 1016 West 6th Avenue; Anchorage, Alaska;
272-9441 .
Upper Susitna Basin.
Cities Service Minerals Corporation is conducting
exploratory investigations at the following areas
in the Upper Susitna Basin: I) Denali Prospect
near Windy Creek; 2) the South end of West Fork
Glacier; and 3) near the foot of the Nenana Glacier.
Staging for the exploration is from the West end of
the Dena! i Highway, and transportation is via helicopter.
Field work evident during 1977 summer.
Unknown.
103
/) Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Duration:
.)
Surficial Geology of the Matanuska and Susitna Valleys.
Dick Reger; Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys (DGGS); Box 80007; Col lege, Alaska 99708;
479-6123.
State Priority areas I, 2 and 3b. Wi I low and Talkeetna
Subbasins.
The primary objective of this project is to complete
the mapping of the surface deposits. Secondary objective
is to determine the location and nature of geologic
hazards, extent of potentially exploitable resources, and
to delineate recent faults which should be studied in
greater detai 1. The product wl I I be a series of geologic
and interpretive maps on a I :63,360 scale. A limited
text wi I I accompany the interpretive maps.
Field investigations for a reconnaissance geologic report
of the Talkeetna-Kashwitna area began in August 1976.
These investigations mark the northern-most I imits of the
Matanuska-Susitna reconnaissance geologic studies, and
are expected to be placed in open file sometime before
1978.
Since June 1977, the DGGS has continued the field investi-
gations in the area from Kashwitna to Palmer for surficial
and bedrock geology. Photo interpretation and mapping is
presently in progress for the Willow Creek and the Little
Susitna River areas and is expected to be completed by
December 1977.
Data has been collected relative to bedrock geology,
surficial geology, bui I ding and foundation materials,
extent of agricultural materials, and inferred geologic
hazards. Field investigations during 1978 are anticipated
to concentrate on more detailed studies of Wi I low Creek,
Little Susitna River, Birch Creek and Peters Creek, with
the possibi I ity of mapping at 1:24,000 scale. A derivative
map of slope stabi I ity may be a by-product of this more
detailed investigation.
Future field investigations wi I I also incluqe the Upper
Matanuska Val ley, and from Talkeetna north to Broad Pass.
The eventual product wi I I be a compostie map of the
surficial geology of the entire Susitna and Matanuska
Basins.
1976-1978. Completion of the work is dependant on
funding and areas of State concern.
The pre I iminary maps are expected to be avai I able by
December 1977.
104
hydrology
)
Section Ill
(~ ~C=ON~T~E~N~T~S~:~H~Y~DR~O~L~O~G~Y
I")
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY
II. INDEX
I I I. CROSS INDEX
IV. PUBLISHED INFORMATION
A. Groundwater
B. Surface Water
C. Water Quality
D. F I ood i ng
E. Hydropower Related
F. Water Resource Management
V. ONGOING PROJECTS
105
Page
106
108
111
112
112
118
124
134
142
158
163
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: HYDROLOGY
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: HYDROLOGY
The hydrology section of the bibliography has been divided into subtopics.
As hydrologic-related investigations often deal with more than one
aspect of water, e.g. quantity and quality of surface water, the references
are located according to the main theme of the report. The following
summarizes the type of .data found in each of the subtopic sections.
GROUNDWATER-Information on avai labi I ity of groundwater ar.d estimates
of sustained yield for certain basin locations are given; however,
thickness and extent of aquifers is virtually unknown. Reports on
effects of permafrost on groundwater serve as technical documents, yet
I ittle is known about the location of permafrost in the Susltna River
Basin region. A few areas of discontinuous permafrost are described,
yet I ittle is known about extent, thickness and relation to groundwater.
SURFACE WATER-Surface water flow measurements are widespread, with
continuous records avai (able for major rivers and tributaries, and
discontinuous measurement records available for smaller tributaries and
unestabl ished gaging sites. Data on sediment yields are available from
many of the surface water gaging stations. Reports discuss impacts of
scour (suspended sediment) on bridge sites in the lower Mat-Su Val ley.
Unfortunately, stream discharge records are not available for some of
the potential development areas of the Susitna Basin, for example,
Wi I low Creek and Deception Creek.
WATER QUALITY-Sampling and record-keeping of lake and stream water
quality has been conducted, either on a periodic or continuous basis, in
the lowlands areas of the Susitna River Basin. The amount of information
on water quality is, perhaps, attributable to a number of factors including
federal legislation requiring water quality standards, impacts or urban
development, effects on fish habitat, and impacts of hydroelectric
development on water quality. Water quality tests include chemical,
biological, temperature and sediment analysis. Salinity concentrations
in subsurface waters are used in correlation with oi I and gas accumulations,
but salinity findings may be useful for water resource planning. Impacts
of waste discharge on estuaries is another topic addressed within the
water quality section.
FLOODING-Analyses of the impacts of flooding are presently I imited to
those populated areas that have sustained enough damage to justify
investigations of problems. Examples of flood studies of the confluence
of the Talkeetna, Susitna, and Chulitna Rivers at Talkeetna; the Matanuska
and Knik Rivers near Palmer; and the Little Susitna River near Houston.
Maximum stage and discharge data are avai (able for locations that have
an established gaging station. The specialized threat of glacier dammed
lakes and outburst floods is also addressed. Floodplains have not be
de I i neated.
106
IIYUI\L)I\1\1/U\ f\[LATE:D-Because of the quantity of information generated on
pL)tcntial for and impacts of hydroelectric power development, hydropower
is discussed as a separate topic. Bureau of Reclamation reports regarding
hydropower potential date back to 1948. The primary location for dam
sites have been in the Upper Susitna sub-basin. In 1949, a study addressed
the potential for hydroelectric power through a combination of dams and
canals on the Little Susitna River and Cottonwood Creek. Some of the
most detailed inventories of fish, wildlife, water quality, and recreation
potential for the Susitna area accompany the plans for power development
on the Upper Susitna River.
WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT -A conglomeration of background studies,
research needs, and management recommendations for water resources in
the Cook lnlet-Susitna River Basin region are contained in this portion
of the hydrology section.
SOURCES - A number of agencies are involved in record keeping and data
collection of Alaskan waters. State agencies include the Department of
Natural Resources, the Department of Environmental Conservation and the
University of Alaska's Institute of Water Resources. Federal entities
include the Geological Survey, the Environmental Protection Agency, the
Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Reclamation, the Alaska Power Authority,
and the Soi I Conservation Service. Other agencies play a secondary role
in water conservation, record keeping or water resource management.
ONGOING PROJECTS -Nearly as many water studies are presently underway
or anticipated, as have been completed in recent years. AI I these
projects wi I I assist in providing needed data, and mapping information
for use by local governments and others. Because of the volume of work
presently in progress or planned, close coordination should be maintained
among State and Federal agency personnel to avoid duplication of products
and to abide by standard guide! ines in the collection of data (with
particular regard to water quality parameters).
107
I I. INDEX: HYDROLOGY
I I. INDEX: HYDROLOGY
A. GROUNDWATER
I. Water Levels and Artesian Pressures in the U.S. and the Northwestern
States.
2. Groundwater in the Permafrost Regions of Alaska.
3. Geology and Groundwater Resources of the Matanuska Val ley Agricultural
Area.
4. Water Resources Reconnaissance of a Part of the Mat-Su Borough.
B. SURFACE WATER
I. Water Resources Data for Alaska (Summary).
2. Water Resources Data for Alaska Water Year 1975.
3. Quantity and Quality of Surface Water in Alaska (Summary).
4. Programs and Plans -Estimating Flow Characteristics from
Channel Size.
5. Computer Model of the Tidal Phenomena in Cook Inlet.
C. WATER QUALITY
I. Water Quality Monitoring Programs An Inventory.
2. Index of Surface Water Quality Records to September 30, 1973.
3. Comprehensive Water and Sewer Study, Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
4. Spectographic and Chemical Analysis of Stream-Sediment and Rock
Samples From the Western Part of the Talkeetna Mountains, Quadrangle.
5. Scour at Selected Bridge Sites in Alaska.
6. Salinity Study, Cook Inlet Basin.
7. Effect of Waste Discharges into a Si It-Laden Estuary: A Case Study
Of Cook Inlet.
8. Water Quality Status Report.
9. Regional Sediment Yield Analysis of Alaska Streams.
108
'_)
D. FLOODING
I . F i na I En vi ronmenta I Impact Statement, Ta I keetna River Pro,j ect.
2. Flood Plain Information Talkeetna River, Susitna River, Chulitna River.
3. Magnitude and Frequency of Floods in Alaska South of the Yukon River.
4. Flood Frequency in Alaska.
5. Floods of the Summer of 1971 in Southcentral Alaska.
6. Smal I Stream Flood Investigations in Alaska: A Compilation of Peak
Data May 1963 to September 1972.
7. Public Meeting: Report of Survey Harbors and Rivers of Alaska,
Matanuska and Little Susitna Rivers Flood Control.
8. Glacier Dammed Lakes and Outburst Floods in Alaska.
E. HYDROPOWER RELATED
I. Background and Summary of Susitna River Hydropower Reports and
Studies.
2. Southcentral Rail belt Area, Interim Feasibi I ity Report-Hydroelectric
Power and Related Purposes for the Upper Susitna.
3. Upper Susitna River Alaska: An Inventory and Evaluation of the
Environmental, Aesthetic and Recreational Resources.
4. Devil Canyon Status Report.
5. Reassessment Report on Upper Susitna River Hydroelectric Development
For the State of Alaska.
6. A Hydrologic Reconnaissance of the Susitna River Below Devil 's Canyon.
7. Preliminary Report on Water-Power Resources of Little Susitna River
and Cottonwood Creek.
8. A Report on the Potential Development of Water Resources in the
Susitna River Basin.
F. WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
1. The Cook Inlet Environment: A Background Study of Avai table Knowledge.
109
F. WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (cont)
2. A Program for Cook Inlet Alaska for the Collection, Storage and Analysis
of Baseline Environmental Data.
3. Alaska Water Resources Research Needs for the 70's.
4. Water Resource Management for the Cook Inlet Basin, Kenai Peninsula
Region: A Study of Existing Practice with Recommendations for a
Comprehensive Plan,
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Upper Susitna River Basin Hydropower Studies, Advanced Engineering
and Design.
2. Surface Water Quality Sampling, Capital Site Area.
3. Nancy Lake Water Quality Monitoring.
4. Hydrological Studies Related to Coal Mining.
5. Hydrological Data Compilation for the Cook Inlet Area.
6. STORET Computerized Data Base System.
7. WATSTORE Computer System.
8. (Proposed) Matanuska-Susitna Borough-wide Flood Insurance Study.
9. Reclamation Considerations for Potential Development of the
Cook Inlet Coal Fields.
10. Sediment Stations.
I I. Wasi I Ia Water and Sewer System.
12. Public Participation 208 Planning -Mat-Su Borough.
13. Alaska 208 Program for Undesignated Area.
14. Alaska 303E River Basin Planning, Susitna Basin.
15. Southcentral Level B Study.
16. Wi I low Creek Companion Study.
17. MAUS.
110
I II. CROSS INDEX: HYDROLOGY
I I I. CROSS INDEX: HYDROLOGY
See LAND USE AND LAND STATUS Section:
Solid Waste Disposal Study, Matanuska-Susitna Borough. 278
See GEOLOGY Section:
Geology and Geochemistry, Diana Lakes Area Western Talkeetna
Mountains. 54
Pre I iminary Geochemistry and Geoloqy Little Fa I I Creek Area,
Talkeetna Mountains Quadrangle. 58
See VEGETATION Section:
Alaska's Agricultural Potential.
See FISH AND WILDLIFE Section:
Annual Performance Report(s) for Inventory and Cataloging.
Pre-Authorization Assessment of the Proposed Susitna River
Hydroe I ectri c Pro.jects: Pre I imi nary I nvesti gati ons of Water
204
23 1
Quality and Aquatic Species Composition. 227
See CLIMATE Section:
Ten Year Comprehensive Plan for Climatological and Hydrological
Data. 299
111
--
~
--~-~--------------~---·-----~-~ ----··---------·---·---------------·--~----------------·----------------------------~------------------
IV. PUBLISHED I NF()R 11ATION: HYOROLOGY
)
A. GROUND WATER
' .. -.)
'-
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
--------------------------
Water Leve Is and Artesia!'_ Pres~e2._!.!:!.._the United States
and Northwestern States •. lJ. S. Geo I OCJ i ca I Survey, \1ater
Supply Papers.
Statewide~
Interest Level 3.
Scattered records of qroundwater measurements are included
in these \'later Supply Papers. The years covered and the
Water Supply Paper number are I isted below:
Water Years Covered
Prior to 1956 (summary)
1956-60
1961-65
1966-70
1971-75
Water Suoply Paper
1760
1760
1845
1980
(Number not known)
Availability: U.S. Geoloqical Survey, Public Inquiries Office.
Note this is an annual water-year report series.
112
Are..J:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
Groundwater in the Permafrost Regions of Alaska.
Wi I Iiams, J.R.; U.S. Geological Survey Professional
Paper 696, ( 1970), (83 p. iII us.).
Statewide.
Interest Level 3.
Figures 3-8) Distribution of basic data used in this
report. (Other tables and maps included but not
relevant to the Susitna region.)
Little evidence is presented in the report regarding
permafrost in the Susitna River Basin area, but
other more northern areas of the state are discussed
in detai I with respect to groundwater in permafrost.
The report states that groundwater supplies are
unaffected by permafrost in the following population
centers within the permafrost region: Anchorage,
Palmer, King Salmon, Di I I ingham, and Tok.
Few data are available to show the relation between
permafrost and groundwater in upland and mountain
bedrock of the discontinuous-permafrost zone. The
report does state that scattered occurrences of perma-
frost have been noted (Capps, 1940) above an altitude
of 3,000 feet in the western Talkeetna Mountains, parti-
cularly in the lode gold mines of the Willow district
(Capps, 1914; Ray, 1954). Test borings recorded perma-
frost at the Vee damsite on the Susitna River in the
northeastern Talkeetna Mountains. However, no data
are available on the effect of permafrost on ground-
water occurrences.
The report is a technical document on permafrost
characteristics, its effects on groundwater, general
occurrence of groundwater, continuous and discontinuous
permafrost zones.
113
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
fllates:
Fiqures:
q_e9_1 oqy and Groundwater Resources of th8 t1atanuska
Val lev Aqricultural Area. Trainer. Frank W.:
lJ. S. Geo I oq i ca I Survev, \~ater-Suno I y Paper 1494:
(1%0), (116 p, illus.).
State Priority area I; and Palmer, Bodenburq Rutte
and Sutton areas
Interest Level I.
I) f·1ap of the 1·1atanuska Valley Aqricultural Area,
showinr:J surficial qeoloqy anrl location of wells.
(I :50,000 map colorinq indicates the
following qeoloqic formations: nonglacial,
qlacial. and undifferentiated deposits;
ground moraine, lateral moraine and bedrock.
Wei I locations are circled and numbered for
referenc8 in the text.)
2) Contour map of the bedrock surface near fJalmer.
(I 1/4''=1 mile) tAap shows bedrock exposure, bedrock
surface known from wei I or other excavation, wei Is
that do not reach bedrock, and bedrock contours.)
3) Diaqram of buri8d til 1-sheet near Palmer.
(2 1/2''=1 mile) (Comni lation of cross-sections
estimatinq denth in wei Is to til I, sand and qravel
and bedrock.)
I) Maps showinq the location of the Matanuska Val lev
agricultural area, and the nhysioqraphic units in it.
(1/2"=5 miles, approximately).
2) Graphs showinq particle size rlistribution in water-
bearing materials.
3) Maps showinq fluctuations of the water table near the
Knik River during and after the flood of the river (1955).
4) Map showinq locations of wei Is that obtain water from
sand or qravel beneath ti II (1/2''=5 miles, approximately).
5) Mao showinq altitudes of water levels in wei Is and
contours on the water table in Palmer and vicinitv
(3/8"=1 mile, apnroximately).
6) Map showing altitudes of water levels in artesian
wei Is and contours on the water table in Palmer and
vicinity, (3/8''=1 mile, approximately).
114
Fiqures:
(cont)
Tables:
Description:
7) Grnohs showin~ fluctuations of water levels in wei Is
(vertical axes: precioitation in inches and depth to water
in feet below land surface. Horizontal axes:
dates: 1949-55.)
8) Diaqrams showing the chemical composition of
samples of groundwater.
I) Climatological data for Agricultural Experiment
Station, near Matanuska 1951-52.
2) Coefficients of transmissibi I ity and storaqe deter-
mined from pumoing tests of the artesian aquifer near
Palmer.
3) Chemical analyses of groundwater froM the Matanuska
Val ley agricultural area.
4) Logs of representative wells in the ~olatanuska
Val ley agricultural area.
5) Records of wei Is in the Matanuska Val ley agricul-
tural area.
The text's contents is organized as follows:
Abstract and introduction.
Geography-climate, toooqraphy and drainage,
vegetation and culture.
Geology -consolidated rocks, unconsolidated
deposits, permafrost, Quaternary history.
Groundwater -principles of occurrence; conditions,
hydrologic character, groundwater conditions in
physiographic units; fluctuations of levels,
discharge and recharge of groundwater; quality
of water; construction of wells; and uti I ization
of groundwater.
References cited, records of wei Is and an index.
115
Title:
Interest:
Area:
Tables:
Description:
Water Resources Reconnaissance of a Part of the
~1atanuska-Susitna Borough. Feulner, A.J.; U.S.
Geologic Survey in cooperation with Alaska Power
Administration, 1971. Hydroloqical Investigations
At I as HA-364.
Interest Level I.
State Priority areas 1,2,3a. The report area includes
the Susitna Rlver Val ley east of the river, from the
Cook Inlet tidal waters on the south to the Talkeetna
River (62°25 1 ) on the north. The Sutton-Eska area in
the Matanuska Val ley Is the eastern study area boundary.
Ava! lab! I ity of Ground Water, I :250,000
Quality of water, I 500,000
Average Measured Discharge of Streams.
Chemical Analyses from Wei Is and Streams in the
Mat-Su Study Area.
Seasonal Distribution of Monthly mean Discharges for
the Little Susltna River.
Average monthly temperature at Palmer.
Average monthly temperature at Talkeetna
Average monthly precipitation at Palmer.
Average monthly precipitation at Talkeetna.
The Ava i I ab i I ity of Ground Water" map shows estimated
potential yield in gal Ions per minute by three (shaded)
units The units are less than 10 gpm, 10 to 50 gpm,
and 50 to 100 gms. Wei Is yielding more than 100 gpm are
shown, and a fractional measure is given for selected
wei Is on which water level and wei I depth were recorded.
The ''Quality of Water" map shows chemical-quality of
surface water and ground water at 18 sample sites.
The ''Chern I ca I Ana I yses" tab I e enumerates by samp I e
site, the quality of water In mil iqrams per I iter.
For each sample site, the following information
Is included: date of the sample, occurrence
of 12 chemicals, dissolved solids, hardness, specific
conductance, ph and color.
The Average ~1easured Discharge of Streams" table gives
discharge for six streams in cubic feet per second,
acre-feet per year, and mil I ions of gal Ions per
day.
116
Description:
(cont)
The map narrative includes the fol lowin~ sections:
An introduction, which discusses the climate, and the
area resident and nonresident populations.
The Availabi I ity of Surface Water section includes a
discussion of major streams, stream-qaqinq stations,
peak-flow periods, discharge, lakes and smal I streams.
The Availability of Ground Water section discusses the
division of the study area into three units based on
geologic and hydrologic data and an analogy with
similar areas. These areas are;
f) Upland east and north of the transportation
system;
2) The populated Cook Inlet, Knik Arm Susitna
River a rea; and
3) The flood plains and lowlands areas adjacent
to streams.
The Oual ity of Water section discusses the hardness, chemical
variation and specific site concentrations of chemicals In
the surface and ground water.
The Potential Water Development section discusses the avai 1-
abi lity of surface and/or ground water for domestic, muni-
cipal and industrial use. Water potential or problems
in the Palmer, Wasi I fa, Big Lake, Houston Wi flow, Montana,
Sunshine and Talkeetna communities are highlighted.
117 J
B. SURFACE \~ATER
Title:
Aren:
Interest:
Description:
li_ater B._eSOJ!r_c~.2.. Dah_for_A I ask_2.._LSumma_r_y_)_
lJ. c;. f;eo I oq i ca I Survev.
Statewide.
Interest Level I.
An annual publicntion. Water Resources Oata for Alaska,
qives basic data for qua-ntitv-a-n"""rf-tl"u_a_l ity-;f-s-t1rface __ _
water, and in some cases qround water, in the State.
The most recent edition is cited as a Water-Data Renort
(AK-75-1 ): the earlier volumes in thisserl8":s-do_n_ot--h-ave
this title for the publication format and have no series
number, but are verv similar in other respects. (A
detailed descrintion of this most recent edition is included
in the bibl ioqraphv.) Listed below is an outline of the
series of publications.
Title Publication Date
Surfnce water records for Alaska, 1961 1961
Surface water records for A I aska, 1962 1962
Surface water records for A I aska, 1963 1963
Surface water records for Alaska, 1964 1964
\r,Jater Oua I i tv Records for Alnska, 1964 1965
Water Resources Data for A Iaska, 1966,
pt. I ot. 2. 1965
\'later Resources Data for Alaska, 1966
pt. I 1067
ot 2 1966
\·later Resources Oat a for Alaska, 1967
\'later Resources Dati'! for Alaska, 196B
nt. I 1969
nt. 2 1968
\r,Jater Resources Data for -A I as ka 1 1969
Pt. I 1971
pt. 2 1968
'dater Resources Data for /\I aska 1 1970
ot. I , ot. 2 1')71
\~ater Resources Data for Alaska, 1971
ot. I , ot. 2 1972
\~ater Resources Data for Alaska, 1972
pt. I , ot. 2 1973
Water Resources Data for Alaska, 1973
ot. I ' pt. 2 1974
11/ater Resources Data for /\Iaska, 1974
pt. I, pt. 2 1975
\'later Resources Data for A I aska,
\·later Year 1975 (includes qround-water data) 1976
118
•
Description:
Ccont)
The fol lowin0 description exemplifies information included
in thP-se reports:
I) Gauging station records: daily discharge in cubic feet
per second and short description of the physical location
of the site.
7.) Discharge at crest-stage partial-record stations.
Includes description of location, the drainage area size,
the period of record, annual maxi~um gauge height and dis-
charge amount.
3) Discharge measurement at miscellaneous sites.
The above data are available for these surface-water
stations within the Susitna Basin:
-Knlk River near Palmer
-Caribou Creek near Dena I i
Little Susitna River near Palmer
-Susitna River near Denali
-Maclaren River near Paxson
Susitna River at Gold Creek
-Talkeetna River near Talkeetna
-Skwentna River near Skwentna
Water quality records include chemical quantities (for 13
chemicals) and temperature by sample site. Analyses of
surface-water samples are for miscellaneous sites.
Suspended sediment analyses generally includes a) discharge,
CCFS); b) sediment concentration (ppm); c) sediment discharge
(tons per day); and d) suspended particle size.
119
_)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
t-1ap:
Description:
_)
\'later Resources Data for A I aska -,."'ater Year I q75.
USGS \'later-Data Report AK-75-1 .
Statewide records; annotation is for water records
within Susitna Study area, Southcentral Alaska.
Interest Leve I I .
I) Locations of gauging stations in Alaska. (Larqe
scale state map).
This report contains dishcarqe records for 107 gauqinq
stations; stage only records for two gauging stations;
water quality for 31 gauging stations; and water levels
for 19 observation wells.
\~ithin the Susitna Study area these records are qiven:
I) Discharge records for nine gauging stations.
2) Chemical, water temperature and sediment records for
three gauging stations on the Susitna River, near Denali:
at Gold Creek; and at Susitna Station.
3) Lake level measurements at Fish Creek and Nine mile
Creek.
4) Surface water samples collected at 26 miscellaneous
sites in the Susitna basin.
5) Ground water level measurements and wei I discriptions
at Glenn IA/oods on Spri nqer Road near Pa I mer and at
Ta I keenta.
120
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Quantity and Ouallty of Surface ~later in Alaska (Summary)
U.S. Geoloqical Survey, Water Supply Papers.
Statew i rle .
Interest Leve I I •
Water Supply Papers containinq basic data describing
the surface-water resources of the state have been
publ !shed in a continuinq series since 1946. General data
includes daily discharge in cubic feet per second and
total mean. Each site is described by location, drainage
area, dates of avai !able records, type of qaqe, extremes,
and in some cases quality parameters. Years covered
and Water Supply Paper numbers and dates are listed
below.
\'later Years Covered
Prior to 1946 (Summary)
1946-50
1951-53
1954-56
1957
1958
1959
1960
1950-60
1966-70
1971-74
Water Supply Paoer
1372
1372
1466
1486
1500
1570
1640
1720
1740
2136
(Number not avai I able)
Availabi I ity: USGS Public Inquiries Office. Water Supply Paper 1720
( 1962).
121
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Programs and Plans -Estimating Flow Characteristics from
Channel Size. Surface \'later Technical ~~emorandum No. 75.16,
U.S. Geolqoclal Survey <March 1975), (xerox paper copy).
Not Applicable.
Interest Level I.
The Information contained in this memo is of general interest,
in that similar techniques may, In the future, be appl !cable
In the Susitna Basin, or other Alaskan River systems.
This memo I) suggests appropriate uses for the method;
2) presents guidelines for data collection, analysis and
application; 3) emphasl2es that field quidance is necessary;
and 4) encourages improvements in this method.
122
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~·1aos:
Tables:
Description:
Ava i I a b i I i ty
~_c_o_m_p_ u_t_e_r_ ~_!_o_d_e_l __ o_f __ t_h_~_li_d_a_l__f_ll_e_n__o_m~n_<!_ _i_n __ c_C2_o_~_l_n_l et_.
Carlson, R.F. and Behlke, C.E.; lnstitut8 of Water Resources,
Report No. IWR-17 U1arch 1972), (75 p.) .
Cook In I et .
Interest Level 3.
Generalized location maps of Cook Inlet and Knik Arm,
including depth in fathoms.
I) The time difference between time of hiqh tide and time
of maximum flow with reference to the time of maximum flow
at Cape Ninilchik accordinq to published field values
for Cook Inlet.
2) The mean tide ranqe as a function of Cook Inlet,
field and computed values.
3) The maximum flow value as a function of distance for
Cook Inlet, field and computed values.
4) The relative time difference between time of hiqh tide
and time of maximum flow qiven by computed values;
for Seldovia, Knik Arm, at Fire Island, and at Anchorage
dock area.
Other tables summarize computed tidal phenomena values.
Information contained in this report is presented in the
following manner:
I) A qeneral description of the techniques involved in
modeling surface water bodies.
2) The Cook Inlet analytical model of flow.
3) Numerical computation model.
4) A description of the investiqation program.
5) A summary of report results and references.
Institute of Water Resources, University of Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701.
Arctic Environmental Information and Data Center.
123
C. WATER QUALITY
:J Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
)
~~ater Qua I i tv f·~on i tori ng Programs (An I nventor'l >
Rummel, B.; Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation (1977) (34 p. ) .
All water quality programs throughout Alaska.
Interest Level 2.
This inventory identifies organizations-local,
State, and Federal agencies, plus universities -
participating in water qual tty monitoring proqrams.
The inventory is an annotated I istinq of organizations,
and includes the following: identification of the
organization objective of the program, variables
monitored, geographic area monitored, type of analysis
(such as field sampling or laboratory analysis), disposi-
tion of data~ publ icatlon citations, and other remarks.
124
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~1aps:
Table:
Description:
Index of Surface t~ater Oua I ity_ Records to September 30, 1973.
st-TiT:-P:T.;-southcenfra I ATaska.-lTS Geo I oq i ca I Survey,
(1976) (37 p.).
Southcentra I A I aska .
Interest Level 2.
Locations of surface water quality stations in Southcentral
Alaska. (Base from USGS National Atlas I :2,000,000. The
water quality collection sites are indicated on the map and
numerically keyed to the indexed table in the text. The
map indicates whether chemical, bioloqical, temperature or
sediment data was collected at each site.
"Index of surface water quality records, Southcentral Alaska"
This report I ists in tabular form, alI sites in Southcentral
Alaska for which water-quality data are available and the type
of data collection. The report contains the following sections:
introduction, explanation of table; comouter retrieval of
data, alphabetical list of stations. The table shows the
calendar years, frequency in which data collection beqan
or ended, for chemical, temperature, sediment and biological
tests.
Computer retrieval of data I isted in the index can be made
for individual stations, or for series of stations by number,
or in latitude-longitude sequence. (See WATSTORE description.)
125
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
_)
Cqn.£.!:_eh•:ms i ve Water and Sewer Study, r1atanuska-
i~sitna Rorough. Tryck, Nyman and Hayes,
Consulting Enqineers for the Matanuska-Susitna
Borouqh (Hay 12, 1970), (85 p. illus.).
~...,atanuska-Sus i tna Borouqh .
Interest Level 2.
The Plate number and map title of relevant; detailed
maps are as follows:
I) Potential availability of Groundwater (no scale).
3) Recommended development Plan for Palmer Water
System (1/2"=100 feet, approximately).
4) Recommended development plan for Palmer Sewer System.
6) Development Plan for 1'/asi I Ia Water System
(5/8"=1000 feet, approximately).
7) Deve I opment pI an for \"as i I I a Sewer System
(5/8 11 =1000 feet, approximately).
8) Talkeetna map, including population (no scale).
9) Possible future sewer system for Talkeetna
(1/2''=15,000 feet, approximately).
10) Minimum water and sewer systems to service existing
deve I opment Ta I keetna ( I /2 ''=I 5, 000 feet, aop rox i mate I y) .
II) Possible future Water System Talkeetna
(I /2"= 15,000 feet, approximate I y).
Data used by the study is generally annotated in other
segments of this Bibi loqraphy. A look at the report's
contents shows these sections: an introduction to the
Borough; general conclusions and recommendations; and
detailed analysis and recommendations of population
centers and community centers. Population centers
include Palmer, Wasi I Ia and Talkeetna; and commumity
centers are alI other communities and Big Lake.
126
Title:
!\rea:
Interest:
r1aps:
Tables:
Description:
~ectographic and Chemical Analyses of Stream-Sediment
~nd Rock Samp I es from the \~estern Part of the Ta I keetna
Mountains Ouadrang~e. Miller, R.J., Curtin, G.C.,
Hopkins, R.T., and Csejtey, B.; U.S. Geologic Survey
Open File Report 77-471. (no date) (105 p. with plates).
Preliminary report, not edited for USGS conformity.
State priority areas 2 and 3b; Upper Talkeetna Sub-
basin.
Interest Level 3.
I ) ~-1ap of the Ta I keetna Hounta ins quadranq I e show i nq
sites at which samples of stream sediments were
collected. ( 1''=250,000).
2) Map of the Talkeetna Mountains quadranqle showing
sites where analyzed rock samples were collected.
(1"""250,000)
I) Lower I imits of determination for elements analyzed.
(indicates elements analyzed by the spectrgraphic
method and the atomic absorption method.)
2) Stream-sediment samples analytical data.
3) Rock samples analytical data.
4) Statistical summary for stream sediment sample
ana I yses.
5) Statistical summary of rock sample analyses.
S i nee I 972, a tot a I of 403 stream·-sed i ment samp I es
and 356 rock samples have been collected and analyzed,
as part of a reconnaissance geochemical sampling program
in the western and central Talkeetna r~ountains. This
report publ !shes the analyses and locations of these
samples.
Stream-sediment samples were collected in the active
channels of rather steep, rushinq mountain streams.
Rock sampl lng was done both to assess background values
and to investigate obviously mineralized areas.
Sediments were analyzed by a spectrographic method and
some samples were analyzed for gold, copper, lead, and
zinc by the atomic absorotion method.
The rock and stream-sediment data were processed by
the ''GEOSU~·1'' computer program.
Availability: USGS Public Inquiries Office has original report and
mylar maps.
127
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Scour at Selected Bridge Sites in Alaska. Norman, V.W.;
USGS Water Resources lnvestiqations 32 75 (November 1975)
(160p. illus.).
Three bridges, located on the Susitna River near
Sunshine, Knik River near Palmer and Knik River near
Eklutna.
Interest Level 3.
The following information is qiven for each bridqe
scour site: general description, general scour cross-
sections, water-surface slopes and stream bed profiles,
velocity distribution, sediment analyses, local
scour at piers, and general scour. A detailed descrip-
tion of the physical setting, hydraulic characteristics,
and channel geometry at low and hiqh flows is given for
each site.
The purpose of this report is to describe the results
of data collection at these bridge sites and compare
the results with existing laboratory and field data,
and with those results predicted from selected scour
formulas. Scour is related to either channel contraction
(general scour) or localized flow conditions at
piers and abutements (local scour).
The Knik River was choosen because many floods of
high discharge result from the breakout of lake
waters trapped behind the Knik Glacier.
128
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~1aps:
Description:
Salinity Study, Cook Inlet Basin. f-'lcGee, D.L.;
neoartment of Natural Resources, DGGS Geoloqical
Report #54 (1977), (6 p. illus.).
State Priority Areas I and 3a (Coasta I Zone) .
Interest Level I.
I ) "Cook In I et \'later Sa I in it i es Sect I on Location f·-1ap ''
( I ''=8 m i I es) Map indicates se I ected boreho I es dr i I I ed for
hydrocarbon within the I imits of the Cook Inlet Basin.
2-5) Plates 2-5, Cook Inlet Water Salinities Cross
Section. Values of water restivities are indicated. This
is a measure of the conductivity of the fluid portion of
the mud system and the water present in subsurface
rocks.
6) Contoured thickness from ground surface to base of
Salt \'later/Fresh Water Gradient (1"=8 miles)
7) Contoured Sub sea Depth to top of High Salinity
(1"=8 ml les). This represents a surface below which
the waters are relatively salty and is also the top of the
section in which nearly at I the I iquid hydrocarbons (oil)
occur in the Cook Inlet.
Exploratory boreholes drilled in Cook Inlet basin for ol I
and gas yei ld are applied to the study of subsurface waters.
The report introduction points out that Plate I delineates those
areas where adequate fresh water may be avai fable. Conversely,
the map indicates areas where brackish water Is relatively
near the ground surface and where it may be difficult to sus-
tain larqe flow rates of fresh water.
Interpretation techniques are explained. Several methods
may be used for determining restivity which Is directly
related to the quantity of dissolved salts.
A section of the report is devoted to definitions and water
restivities calculted from the SSP (static spontaneous potential)
curves. Four vertical distributions or concentrations of
salinities in Cook Inlet Basin are described. Each has a
particular salinity range. They are:
I) Fresh water, (water usable for community needs).
2) Slightly salty to moderately salty water (up to 200 grains
per gallon NaCI.)
129
)
Description:
(cent)
3) Moderately salty formation waters (from 200 to 1,000
grains per NaCL).
4) Very salty formation waters (sal initles in excess of 1,000
grains per gal ton). Two report paragraphs include map
presentations and interpretation restraints.
The report conclusions interpret geographic areas where
fresh water occurs (plate 6), and oil and gas accumulations
related to saline water (plate 7).
A paragraph summarizes the report findings.
Availabi I ity: Report copies avai fable Department of Natural Resources,
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys; price $3.00.
130
Title:
Area:
Interest:
f1ap:
Tables:
Description:
Effect of Waste Dischar~es into A Silt-Laden Estuary:
A Case Study of Cook Inlet. Institute of 1~/ater Resources,
rubl ication No. IWR 26, <Novemher 1972), (26 p. i I Ius.).
IJoper Cook Inlet.
Interest Level I.
Map of Knik Arm region showing the major sewaqe outfalls
( I "=I 0 m i I es).
Tables include data on: salinity; tidal height; posphate
concentrations; nitrate concetrations: and ammonia
concentrations.
The report describes the results of investigations of the
fo II owing aspects of the In I et ~laters:
I) The currents effect on mixing and dispersion patterns
of the waste materials.
2) Chemical quality.
3) Free-swimming microorganisms throughout Knik Arm.
4) Bacteriology, in order to determine organisms of
sewage origin.
5) The bottom muds near the Chester Creek outfal I, to
assess the effects of waste discharge on the benthic layer.
131 J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
l~ater nua I i ty Status Report CAnnua I Report).
Department of Environmental Conservation; (February 1977),
(30 p.)
Statewide.
Interest Level 3.
This report is prepared in accordance with the requirements
of the Fe de ra I Water Po I I uti on Centro I Act Amendments of
1972 (P.L. 92-500), Section 305 (b).
The Status Report presents backqround on current water
quality and recent trends. General statements are made
concerning the natural conditions of Alaska's waters and an
overview of water pollution problems. A more detailed
section discusses the status of compl lance, and the status
of attainment of water quality goals. A concluding section
of the report high! ights the costs and benefits of water
pollution control programs.
132
Title:
1\ rea :
Interest:
·ian:
Tables:
Doser ipti.on:
Central and Southcentral Alaska.
Interest Leve I I.
Sedirnent Stations and Tributarv Arons (1/2.'-12() miles).
(11np of Alaska lists 13 sediment stations.)
I) Suspended sediment data for selected Alaskan Rivers.
2) Parameters used in reqional analvsis
3) ((~raoh) l"larticle size distributions for typical
glacial-fed river and ·non-glacial river.
4) (Graph) Average annual sediment yield in tons/miles.
This naper's introduction states that USGS has maintained
only six daily sediment stations with records of more than
three years Historically, through lq70, the USGS has
collected about I ,500 miscellaneous susPended sediment
measurements at nbout 15() stntions, most of which are in
central Alaska, south of the Alaska ranqe.
The nurnnse of this paper is to examine the available historical
suspended sediment data for Alaskan rivers and evaluate its
usefulness in developing regional sediment yei ld relationships
suitable for engineering analysis and design.
Thirteen stations were selected for analysis based on lenqth
and rei iabi I ity of record. These stations are:
I) Susitna River near Dena! i
2) Matanuska River near Palmer
3) Galkona River at Galkona
4) Nenana River at Healv
5) Susitna River at Gold Creek
6) Knik River near Palmer
7) Maclaren River near Paxson
8) Copper River near Chitina
9) Chi sana River at Northway
10) Tanana River near Tanacross
I I) Tanana River at Nenana
12) Yukon River at Eaqle
13) Chena River at Fairbanks.
133
D. FLOODING
-------------------.-----------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Description:
final Envi~onmental Impact Statement, Talkeetna River
Project. Alaska District Corps of Engineers;
(February 1977), (84 p. iII us.).
State Priority Area 2.
Interest Level 3.
Sketch maps included in this EIS are I) location
map (I "=40 m i I es), 2) area map, 3) project map (I "=400 feet),
physiography of Alaska, and 4) climate data maps,
(generalized of Southcentral Alaska).
I) Volume of construction material
2) Flow data for the Susitna and Talkeetna Rivers.
3) Suspended Sediment Analyses, Susitna River and Talkeetna
River.
4) Chemical Analyses, Talkeetna River.
5) Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, Fish r-1igration Data.
6) Alternative structural methods for erosion control,
Talkeetna.
The project involves construction of a 600 foot dike,
740 feet of bank grading and seeding and 1,600 feet
of rock revetment. The purpose is to prevent bank
erosion by flood waters of the Talkeetna and Susitna
Rivers.
Environmental impacts and adverse affects of the project are
analysed. Alternatives to the proposed project are high-
lighted. Coordination with other agencies is documented
in the form of correspondence and events leading up to
this EIS.
134
=-
~
Title:
/\rea:
Interest:
t1aos:
Tables:
Description:
Flood Plain Information Talkeetna River, Susitna fffver. Chu I i tna River. Prepared for the t~atanuska
Susitna Rorouqh by the Department of the Army, Alaska
District, Corps of Enqineers, (June 1972), (28 p. illus.).
State priority area 2.
Interest Level 3.
I) r,eneral map -flood plain inform~tion Talkeetna
( I "=I m i I e) •
2) Flooded area map; Standard Project Flood, lnter-
med i ate Region a I F I ood and Stream Channe I (I 11 =2, I 00 feet),
(minimum contour interval is 50 feet). Base is a USGS
Ouad sheet Talkeetna R I.
3) Flooded area map (same as above), based on BU~
aerial photoqraphs flown at 1500 feet in 1971.
I) High Water Profiles (Graph) for Talkeetna and
Susitna Rivers.
2) Supplemental High Water Profile (Graph), Talkeetna
River Overflow.
3) Four Cross Sections, Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers.
4) Hydroqraph Standard Project Flood, Talkeetna
River at Talkeetna.
5) Hydrograph Standard Project Flood, Susitna River
at Talkeetna.
This report includes a history of flooding in Talkeetna
and identifies those areas that are subject to possible
future floods. Special emphasis is given through
use of maps, photographs, profiles, and cross sections.
The report does not provide solutions to flood problems.
It does furnish a suitable basis for the adoption of
land use controls to guide flood plain development. It
wil I also aid in the identification of other flood
damaqe reduction techniques.
135
.·~ Title:
Area:
Interest:
t1aps:
Tables:
Oeser i oti on:
~'i_a_qn i "t_t!_de an_~.£r_e~ncy of F I oods in A I ask a South
of the Yukon River. Rerwick, V.K. Childers, J.~1.,
~nd Kuentzel, M.A.; U.S. Geolo~ical Survey
Circular 493, oreoared in coooerntion with Alaska
State Hiqhway nerartment and the U.S. Aureau of
Pub I i c Roads. (I %4) ( 15 r. i II us.).
Centra I, Southcentra I and Southeastern A I aska.
Interest Level 2.
I) Map of Alaska showinq reqion covered by flood-
frequency study, subdivided into hydrologic areas
A,B, and C. (1:5,000,000 scale, 1"=80 miles,
approximately.)
I) Maximum stages and discharqes at qaqinq stations.
2) Unusual floods 8t short-term qaqinrJ stations.
The reo0rt presents a method .for eva I uati nr, the
maqnitude and frequency of floods on the basis of
analysis of flood records.
The USGS method of flood frequencv analysis is presented.
Tonography and climate of each reqion are briefly
described in relation to stream runoff. The computation
of flood frequencY at qaqinq stations and the reqional
frequency are explained.
The report concludes that the maonitude of a flood (at any
point, qaqed or unqaqed, in the reqion covered by the study
and corresponding to a specified recurrence interval) can
be obtai ned.
The fol lowinq qaqinq stations within the Susitna River
basins are included in the maximum staqe and discharqe
table: Caribou Creek near Sutton, t~latanuska River at
Palmer, Little Susitna River, Susitna River near Dena! i,
t-1aclaren River near Paxson, Susitna River at Gold Creek,
and Chul ltna River near Talkeetna.
136
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~1aps:
Description:
f_l_ood Frequency in Alaska. Childers, JJ1., U.S. GeoloCJical
Survey t~ater Resources DivIsion, Open F i I e Report; 1970
( 30 p. i I I us. ) .
Statewide .
Interest Level I.
I) Map showing location of all surface water qaqinq
stations, both current and discontinued, with at
least one water vear of record (I "=100 miles, approx-
imately).
2) Regional flood-frequency relations for Alaska
(shows the equations used to estimate the flood
characteristics for any location, by substituting
values of the basin variables.)
3) maximum known f I oods in a I aska. (Inc I udes: name
of streams and place of determination, drainage area,
period of record, date of maximum known flood, qauge
height, discharges and other remarks.)
Records of peak discharge at 183 sites were used to
study flood frequency and are included in the report
tables. Where adequate discharge data were avai !able,
peak stream discharges for 2-year, 5-year 10-year,
25-year, and 50-year average recurrence intervals were
analyzed.
Maximum known floods at more than 500 gauging stations
and miscellaneous sites in Alaska were related
to drainage-agea size.
Besides a report abstract, definitions and introduction,
description of geography in relation to floods, flood
records, and maximum known floods are discussed in
the report text.
137
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
Figures:
Description:
Floods of the Summer of 1971 in Southcentral Alaska.
Lamke, Robert D.: USDI, U.S. Geoloqical Survey,
\~ater Resources Division (March 1972) Open F i I e
Report, Open File #542.
AI I of Southcentral Alaska including Susitna River
Interest Leve I I.
I) Location of flood-data sites ( 1/2''=50 miles).
2) Location of flood data sites near Anchorage and
Pa I mer ( I /2"= I 0 m i I es).
3) Area inundated by Matanuska River near Bodenburg
Butte, August 10, 1971 (l"=lmile; contour intervals
50 and 100 feet).
I) Precipitation, in inches, at selected stations durinq
August 5-I I. 1971.
2) Flood stages and discharges, summer 1971 in south-
centra I A I aska.
3) Suspended sediment data collected during summer 1971
within flood area of southcentral Alaska.
Discharge hydrography for selected streams in the Susitna
River Basin, August 6-13, 1971. Selected streams are
Little Susltna River, ~~aclaren River, Susitna River
near Denali and Susitna River at Gold Creek.
Summary of scour data at Bridge number 254 on Susitna
River near Sunshine during summer of 1971.
(Matanuska River Basin and Susitan River Basin only
pages 17-30). These report sections describe the locations
and time of the extreme flooding that occured in the
~~atanuska Valley along the Glenn Highway east of
Palmer, Kings River, Granite Creek Eska Creek, Moose Creek,
and ~~atanuska River near Bodenburg Butte. 2) In the
Susitna River Basin: the Little Susitna River, near
Palmer, Hatcher Pass road, the Anchorage-Fairbanks
Highway, Ta I keetna River, ~1ontana Creek, Goose Creek,
the Susitna River near Denali, and the MaClaren River
near Paxson.
138
Title:
/\rea:
Interest:
~.1aos:
Graphs:
Tables:
Description:
imal 1-Stream Flood Investigations in Alaska: A
9omp i I at ion of Peak Data, May 1963 to September 1972.
Jones, Stanley, H.; USGS \~ater Resources Division in
cooperation with Alaska Department of Highways and
Federal Highway Administration, 1973, (55 p.).
Statewide
Interest Level I.
I) Map of Alaska showing location of gaqinq stations
and hydroloqic subregions I isted in table. (scale:
approximately 3/4"=100 miles)
(7) Discharge Hydroqraphs. One hydroqraph within
Susitna Basin: Seattle Creek near Cantwel I: Vertical
axis discharge in c.f.s. Horizontal axis-time
also annual maxumum discharge in c.f.s.
Gaginq station records: Southcentral (May 28-31 1972)
pages 23-24.
Drainage basin characterisitcs (Southcentral page 49.)
Maximum known floods in Alaska (Southcentral pages
52 and 53).
The report contains the following sections: introduction,
description of program, program operation, presentation
of data, references, conversion table and gauging-station
records by state regions.
The reoort compiles flood data on streams with drainage
areas generally less than 100 square miles, emphasizing
those areas of less than 50 square miles.
The gauging records stations table (Table I) shows the
annual maximum instantaneous staqes and discharges.
The following drainage basin characterisitcs are shown in
Table 2: I) drainage area: 2) slope of main stream:
3) length of main stream; 4) main elevation of basin;
5) percentage of area in lakes, forest and glaciers;
6) mean annual precipitation; and 7) precipitation
intensity.
139
/)
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
public Meeting: Report of Survey Harbors.and Rivers
of Alaska ~~atanuska and Little Susitna Rivers Flood
Control. Alaska District Corps of Enqineers,
(January 5, 1972)
State priority area 1. The Rodenburg loop area adjacent
to the Matanuska River.
Interest Level 2.
The main body of the report is the transcript of the
public hearing. A record of attendance and the notice of
the hearing are also Included. Opening testimony by
the Corps of Engineers explains the location and extent
of flooding along the Little Susitna River near Houston,
and the Matanuska River near the Bodenburg Butte in
Palmer. Suggestions for Improvement are discussed.
The erosion on the left bank of the Matanuska River; and
the removal of natural obstructions and erosions control
along the north bank of the Little Susitna are discussed.
18 persons attended the hearing.
140
Title:
Area:
Interest:
t1aps:
Graph:
Description:
Glacier Dammed Lakes and Outburst Floods in Alaska.
Post, A. and t,1ayo, L. R.; USGS Hydro I oq i c Invest i qat ions
Atlas HA-455 (1971)
Of interest to the Susitna Study: Beluga River,
Yentna River, Kahiltna Glacier/River, Tokositna
Glacier/River, Ruth Glacier, Eldridqe, Glacier,
Sus itna River, Kn i k River and ~1atanuska River.
Interest Level 2.
I) Map showing location of glaciers, glacier-dammed
lakes, glacier-sheathed volcanoes and areas subject
to outburst flooding in Southcentral Alaska. 1;1,000,000.
2) Photography illustrating the following: I) the
variability of glacier dammed lakes; 2) how temporary
lakes are caused by periodically surging glaciers;
3) the effects of an outburst flood due to volcanic
activity, 4) damage caused by outburst floods.
3) Southeastern Alaska map.
Outburst floods and non-outburst floods on four rivers.
For Knik River: Discharge in thousands of cubic meters per
second, 1948-1966.
The atlas narrative contains these sections: introduction,
how the data were compiled, formation of glacier dammed
lakes, how glaicer dammed lakes release, characteristics of
floods from glacier dammed lake outbursts, difficulties in
flood prediction from glacier dammed lakes, histories of
five rivers, some special outburst flood settings, summary,
conclusion: a need for recognizing hazardous areas and for
monitoring of glacier dammed lakes, and references.
141
J
----------------·~---------
E. HYDROPOWER RELATED
--------------
) BACKGROUND: SUS ITNA RIVER HYDROPOWER REPORTS AND STUD I ES
The impact of land inundation in the Upper Susitna River Basin has been
evaluated by a number of governmental agencies; namely the Bureau of
Reclamation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Bureau of
Mines, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service,
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Alaska Department of Fish and. Game
and others. Because of the sheer quantity of information that has been
prepared regarding the impact of land inundation and the hydropower
potential of the Upper Susitna River Basin, this summary is presented to
give a time-order sequence to these studies and reports. Detailed
annotations of the current resource inventory reports and the most
recent feasibility reports are included in the bibl lography. Early
surveys (pre-1960's) related to the hydropower projects of the Upper
Susitna are not annotated in detai I. Fisheries, wildlife and other
resource reports or projects undertaken as a result of the potential for
hydropower development in the Upper Susitna are included in other appropriate
sections of this bib I iography.
SUMMARY OF REPORTS AND STUDIES ---
I. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation,~ Reconnaissance Report on the Potential
Development Qi Water Resources~ the Territory of Alaska, (December
1948).
This report described the resources of the Territory of Alaska and
indicated p·otential for power development at 72 sites. The territory
was divided into five regions and potential hydropower sites were
studied, of which five were in the Susitna River Basin.
2. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, ~Report on Potential Development of
Water Resources~ the Susitna River Basin of Alaska; (August 1952).
This report described the resource potentials of the Susitna River
Basin. An ultimate plan of development of hydropower resources for
the basin was described, and included 12 major dams.
In 1956 the Bureau of Reclamation resumed detailed feasibi I ity studies
of the Devil Canyon dam site.
3. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Devi I Canyon Pro,ject, Alaska; (March
1961); and Vee Project Studies ( 1964).
The Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation recommended a Devi I
Canyon Project, which consisted of two major dams and reservoirs on
the Upper Susitna River, a powerplant, and transmission lines and
appurtenant faci I ities to deliver power and energy to Fairbanks and
Anchorage. The largest structure would be the Devil Canyon Dam
which would possess many advantages for development of hydroelectric
power; however, storage capacity was not adequate. Therefore, a
142
------------
second dam at the Dena! i site was proposed. The report suggested
this would provide for a larger reservoir with a low earthfi II dam. -"J
Based on the hydrologic data avai !able at the time of the report,
the estimated energy potential of the system which consisted ultimately
of four dams with first-stage development of Devi I Canyon and
Dena! i were 7.0 and 2.9 bi I lion kilowatt-hours, respectively.
The State of Alaska endorsed the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Devi I
Canyon proje.ct in June, 1961.
4. Alaska Power Adminstration, Devi I Canyon Status Report; (May 1974).
This report was a partial update of the March 1961 report of the
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on the Devi I Canyon Project. This
report included updating the designs for the project features,
preparation of new cost estimates, brief analysis of the power
market, environmental, considerations and economic aspects.
5. Alaska Power Administration, 1974 Alaska Power Survey, prepared for
the Federal .Power Commission, in five volumes.
The report included information and data on resources and electric
power generation, economic analysis, load projections, environmental
considerations, and consumer affairs.
Two reports providing information on the Susitna River, with regard to
the hydroelectric potential, include work by a private company with a
land-water resource consultant for the National Marine Fisheries Service.
They are:
6. Henry J. Kaiser, Company, A Reassessment Report on Upper Susitna
River Hydroelectric Development for The State of Alaska, (September
1974)
The company was considering the development of a large aluminum
plant within the Rai I belt area, contingent upon availability of
large quantities of inexpensive energy. To meet this demand,
Kaiser suggested a first-stage upper Susitna River development
consisting of a single high dam (termed "Devi I Canyon High" and/or
"Susitna I") five miles upstream from the USBR Devi I Canyon damsite.
Subsequent development would include power projects both up and
downstream from the high dam.
7. Bishop, D. of Environaid for the National Marien Fisheries Service,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, A Hydrologic Reconnaissance
of the Susitna River Below Devi l's Canyon, (October 1974).
The report· provides information on present and future physical
characteristics of the Susitna River below Devi l's Canyon. Particular
attention was given to features relating to the fishery resource
habitat.
8. Jones & Jones for the U.S. Armu Corps of Engineers, An Inventory and
Evaluation of the Environmental, Aesthetic and Recreational Resources of
the Upper Susitna River, Alaska. <March 14-,-1975).
143
.)
As the report title suggests, the effects of the proposed four dams
and their reservoirs upon the environmental, aesthetic, and recreational
resources were inventoried and evaluated. The report, generally
confirmed earlier studies finding the Upper Susitna project to have
fewer adverse effects on fish and wildlife than other hydroelectric
alternatives, although high impacts on the Nelchina Caribou herd
were found. Areas were also idenfitied where lack of information
requires additional field study
For several years during the late 1960s, attention to the development of
hydropower was diverted. This was in part attributable to the 1967
flood in Fairbanks and the resultant need for flood controls measures
not hydroelectric power.
To get a clear picture of the time sequence of subsequent reports, it's
important to note Congressional action regarding the Susitna hydroelectric
power studies. In January 1972 the U.S. Senate Committee on Pub! ic
Works cal led upon the Corps of Engineers to again review the feasibility
of hydropower to the Southcentral Rai I belt, with particular reference to
the Susitna River project area. In effect, the Corps was asked to
reviewal I of their own reports to date, the Bureau of Reclamation
scheme and any other competitive alternatives.
In partial response to this Congressional resolution, the Corps of
Engineers has prepared an Interim Report. This assemblage of information
is presented in several volumes. An environmental statement accompanied
this round of project study, however, since the study is in the feasibi I ity
stage, impacts are not exhaustively evaluated in this draft EIS. These
reports are as fo I I ows:
9. Corps of Engineers, Southcentral Railbelt Area, Interim Feasibi I ity
Report-Hydroelectric Power and Related Purposes for the Upper Susitna
with technical appendices as explained below, (December 1975).
-The Study and Report (the main report)
-Appendix l Part l
-Appendix 1, Part I
-Appendix I·
-Revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement
The main report presents a nontechnical summary of the results of the
interim feasibi I ity study.
Th.e first appendix is a technical report containing more detailed information
on environmental and economic resources, plan formulation, and design
considerations necessary for the technical reviewer to conduct an independent
evaluation of the validity of the study results. Appendix 2 contains
all pertinent correspondence affecting coordination among Federal,
State, and local interests; and reports of other agencies.
The next step is the Corps current work on preparing a Plan of Study for
Phase I of the· Upper Susitna Hydroelectric Power Project. Phase I
involves advanced engineering and design, an environmental impact statement,
cost/benefit economic analysis, and evaluation of transmission corridors.
144
Actual construction or cancellation of the project wi I I follow the
completion of Phase I. If approved, the construction of the project
wi I I tenatively be financed by the sale of State revenue bonds and a
Federal revolving fund used to guarantee State bonds. If Phase I study
finds the project unfeasible, state funds committed to that date wi I I be
redeemed by the Federal government.
145
r) Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
----------·--------------------------
Southcentral Rail belt Area, Interim Feasibi I it[
Report -Hydroelectric Power and Related Purposes
for the Upper Susitna. Alaska District Corps of
Engineers; (December 1975), (3 vols. and EIS).
Upper Susitna Basin.
Interest Level 2.
The purpose of this interim study is to determine
the feasibility of providinq electrical enerqy to
the Rai I belt area through the development of hydro-
power.
Each volume of the Interim Report wit I be described
separately.
}he Study and Report (125 p. il Ius) (revised I June 1976).
-'1a!J u r r 8L.UI!Iflltll H.leJ i ltl!Jr uverner l t ' i ncl udes ,~eservo I,-I
access road and transmission route from \~atana Damsite
( I "=I 0 m i I es) .
-\'latana Dam Deta i I PI an (I /2''=500 feet).
-Dev i I Canyon Dam Deta i I PI an (I '=300 feet).
The study and report are of feasibility scope. The report
includes a systematic examination of the economic,
social and environmental conditions. This report is
a nontechnical summary of the study results. Most of
information in the section outlininq resources of
the study area was taken from Resources of Alaska,
compiled in July 1974 by the reso~e planninq team
of the Joint Federal-State Land Use Planning Commission
for Alaska.
A good deal of the data contained in the section on
the economy of the study area are taken from The Alaskan
Economy. Department of Commerce and Economic Develop-
ment, Mid-Year Review, 1975.
The summary report recommends the Watana and Devil 's
Canyon dams, and transmission facilities to provide
hydropower, flood control, and recreation for south-
central and interior Alaska.
146
Section A Hydrology. Detailed available cl imatoloqical and hydrologic
data is included in this section of Appendix I. Data for streamflow
records from these qauqinq stations are analyzed in detail: I) Susitna
~iver at Gold creek; 2) Susitna River near Denali; 3) MaClaren River
near Paxson; 4) Susitna River near Cantwel I, sedimentation, evapotrans~
pi ration, water quality, probably maximum flood and flood control
requlations.
Section B. Project Description and Cost Estimates: Alternative
construction features and systems, and their anticipated costs
are analyzed.
Section C. Power Studies and Economics. A broad range of energy
resources, and the economic base of the Rai I belt area is discussed.
Section D. Foundations and t1aterials: Regional and site geology,
seismology and construction materials are the focus of this
section.
Section E. Environmental Assessment: Each alternative source
of power was tested for physical, political, financial, economic,
environmental and social feasibi I ity.
Section F. Recreation a I Assessment. r~ost i nout to this sect I on
is from the State's Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, and
An Inventory and Evaluation of the Environmental, Aesthetic and
Recreational Resources, by Jones and Jones for the Corps.
Appendix I Part 2, (Produced by the Alaska Power Administration
as supporting studies to the Corps of Engineers.)
Section G. ~·1arketabll ity Analyses. This section of estimates of
future power requirements, power sales, rates and cost analyses
is provided by the Alaska Power Administration.
Section H. Transmission System. Four groups of transmission systems
are out I i ned: I ) those that I ead from Dev i I Canyon-lhiatana to
Anchorage via the Susitna lhiatershed; 2) those that lead to Fairbanks
via the Nenana and Tanana drainage; 3) those that lead to Fairbanks
via the Delta and Tanana drainages; and 4) those that lead to Anchorage
via the Copper and Matanuska drainages. Corridors are discussed
within each of these drainage alternatives.
Section I. Environmental Assessment.
Support maps of the transmission corridor include (alI at a scale
of approximately lcm=3 miles):
-Strip maps of each alternative transmission corridor route
(7 maps).
-Soils maps for transmission corridor alternative; general !zed
soi Is (7 maps).
-Land Status maps for transmission corridors; corridors;
generalized (7 maps).
147
~ppendix 2 (65 p.)
This appendix includes alI pertinent correspondence and Corns
reports to other agencies.
Revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement (327 p.)
This EIS does not include an exhaustive evaluation of project Impacts;
but wi II be updated and refined during ''pre-construction'' planninq
contin~ent on Congressional approval. Environmental impacts with
and without the project are included in the EIS.
148
---~------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Upper Susitna River Alaska; An Inventory and
Evaluation of the Environmental, Aesthetic and
Recreational Resources. Jones and Jones for the
Corps of Engineers, t-1arch 1975. (320 p. illus.>.
Upper Susltna sub-basin, State Priority area 3b.
The Upper Susitna basin area affected by the proposed
Dev i I Canyon, Dena I i, 1¥atana and Vee dam system.
Interest Level 2.
A tota I of 45 maps are Inc I uded in the text. ~-1any
have no scale and are artist conceptions or Inferred
representations of area resources. The pertinent
figures are listed below:
3) Geology of Upper Susitna River (no scale;
aerial photo map).
5) Land ownership status-1974 (1"=50 miles).
7) Physiographic sections and river channel types
(no scale; aerial photo map).
9) River Viewshed classification (1"=15 miles,
viewshed is the adjacent lands near the rivers
and streams) .
10) River Watershed classification. (1"=15 miles).
15) Seasonality (graph)-These factors are
tabulated by seasons: Climatic-temperature, hours
of sunlight, rainfal I, snowfal I; hydrologic-Devil
Canyon, Denali; Biotic-fal I color, Caribou seasons,
insect surge; hunting season -water fowl, smal I
game, fur bearing, big qame; recreational seasons -
land/snow, water/ice.
17) Existing Natural Value (1''=15 mile) Existinq
environmental, aesthetic and recreational values on
the Upper Susitna are mapped to run and zone. Value/
quality is a 6-rank indice from "very high" to
"very low."
18) Existing Aesthetic Value (1"'=15 mile) 28 runs
and zones are given value/qual tty rank.
19) Existing Environmental Quality (11!=15 mile)
28 runs and zones are given value/quality rank.
\
149
/)
J
)
Maps:
(cont)
Tables:
Description:
20) Existing Recreation Suitability (1"=15 miles)
Runs and zones are given 3-scale suitabl llty rank.
23) Natural Value after construction of dams.
(1"=15 mile) Environmental, aesthetic and
recreational values are depleted by color code
after project.
35) Alaskan Rivers selected for inclusion in the
National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
Local area maps A-1 through A-7 show geology,
local climatic stresses, hydrolooy, soi Is, vege-
tation, mammals and waterfowl in the Upper Susitna
dam areas.
17 Tables, including the fol lowinq:
I) Magnitude and Importance ot Existing Natural
and Cultural Resources. (This table is a color
coded 7-1 eve I ''magnitude of resource importance!!
matrix for 14 subareas for the following resources:
geologic, climatic, hydrologic, biological, botanic,
zoologic, cultural/human use, various use, various
aesthetic values, and existing recreational suit-
ab i I i ty.)
2) Natural and Cultural Resources after Dam Con-
struction: physical, biological and cultural (matrix
organized as explained above.)
The report contains the following sections: intro-
duction; Susitna basin description; study methodology;
existing and future conditions within the study area;
resources of regional significance; conflicts and
interactions; matrixes; natural/cultural resource
data coding is explained; geoloqy; and bibliography.
The major physical, biological and cultural resources
of the area (including after dam construction) are
described in the text and displayed on a multi-
region/resource matrix as wei I as on other maps and
tables.
The river corridor was classified into 28 units or
"runs" to aid analysis, to spatially locate effects,
and to support site-specific recommendations.
150
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
DevJ_I __ Ca~on Status Report
t1ay I 97 4 ( 77 p . ) .
Alaska Power Administration,
Upper Susitna sub-basin, state priority area 3b.
Interest level 3.
I) Upper Susitna Basin location mao (1"=50 miles,
approximately.)
2) River map, Upper Susitna Basin and Upper
Susitna River Profile (3/4"=5 miles, approximately.)
3) Existinq Transmission Systems (1 11 =50 miles
approximately.)
4-8) Damsite layout; elevation and sections: power-
plants.
9) Land Status ~4ap Federal Withdrawa Is ( 1"=50
miles, approximately.)
10) Land Status Map-Native withdrawals (I =50 miles,
approximately.)
II) Land Status Map-State Selections ( 1"=50 miles,
approximate I y.)
The report is a plan for initial development of the hydro-
electric resources of the Upper Susitna Basin and inter~
connection of the major power markets of the Alaska Rai 1-
belt. The report includes these sections: introduction,
aspects of the power market, desiqn update for the project
features, and preparation of new cost estimates.
151
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~·1aps:
Tables:
Description:
Reassessment Report on Upper Susitna River Hydroelectric
_pevel~ment for the State of Alaska. By the Henry J. Kaiser
Company, (September 1974), (70 p. illus).
Upper Susitna sub-basin.
Interest Level 2.
I) Site location plan (3cm=10 miles).
2) General layout of Susitna I" hydroelectric project
(lcm=200 feet, approximately.)
I) Appendix Table 4: Stream Flow Summary ( 1950-1972,
monthly discharge in acre-feet for Susitna River Basin.)
Includes Gold Creek, Cantwel I and Damsite B.
Other graphs and tables i I lustrate energy needs and sales,
discharge, reservoir operation and power generation data,
and various other power related information. <A total of
35 tables, graphs or other illustrations are included.)
The State of Alaska contracted with Henry J. Kaiser Company
for performance of the services accounted in this report.
This study reassesses the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation scheme
for development of the hydroelectric potential of the
Upper Susitna River and presents an alternate concept
for its development.
The main focus of the report is the study of a
proposed hydroelectric development at a location five
mi I es upstream from Devi I Canyon, ca II ed "Sus itna I".
The Kaiser Company anticipated that a major energy-
intensive industry could be attracted to the Susitna basin
to utilize any long-term surplus.
The Kaiser Company report analyzes population and employ-
ment forecasts, applying projected needs for energy con-
sumption. Energy sales per residential and commercial -
industrial customer (1961-1973), and capacity and sales
figures are tabulated.
Hydrologic information is included, based on mean monthly
rivers discharges at USGS gaging stations and precipitation
records of climatological stations.
A brief section on topography and geology includes
descriptions of: glacial deposits, talus and swaMp
deposits, river terraces and gravel bars, bedrock,
and engineering geology concerns.
152
Description:
(cont)
Consideration was given to three qeneral types of
dams: concrete arch, concrete qravity and compacted
rockf iII.
Other report considerations are cost estimates, a
construction plan, financial and economic analyses.
In a discussion of energy-intensive industries
utilizinq "Susitna I" it is concluded that power is
estimated to be hiqher than the ceil inq which an aluminum
manufacturer would consider at the time.
The Appendix is a useful summary of historic stream flow
data from USGS gauging stations.
153
_)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Tables:
Description:
A Hydrologic Reconnaissance of the Susitna R~~~
Below Devi I 's Canyon. Bishop, D.t1.; Environaid
A Land-Water Resource Consultant Group for NOAA,
National Marine Fisheries Service, (October, 1975),
(69 p. iII us.>.
Upper Susitna Sub-basin
Interest Level 2.
Numerous tables are included in this report. Data
in tabular form includes the following:
-Temperature differences (Little Susitna and Susitna
Rivers).
Average Width of Susitna River
-Factors summarizing the regulated stream temperature
regime.
Surface velocities
\~idths, gradients, velocities, and shore! ine
types.
-Evaluations of I ikel ihood of Susitna River degrad-
ation between Talkeetna and Devi I 's Canyon.
-Summary of spring flows.
-River temperatures during field visit.
-Thermograph installation record.
The report provides information on present and future
(regulated) physical characteristics of the Susitna River
below Devil 's Canyon. The analysis is concentrated on
features relating to. the fishery resource habitat.
Study concentration was given to the Susitna River above
Talkeetna.
Data collected and included in the report was In response
to the following objectives:
154
Oescription:
(cont)
a) Stream temperature: Information on the river's
present temperature reqime and projections as to
how this reqlme may chanqe below the dam.
b) Stream velocity: Susltna River velocities and
related stream flows under natural and requlated
conditions are defined and evaluated.
c) Suspended sediment: sediments in the stream
channel in relation to how suspended sediment may
affect the fish population, rather than a concern
for the rate of reservoir fil Is with sediment.
d) Re-grading of the Susitna River profile:
Chanqes in river depth, gradient, meander
patterns and other changes in the middle
Susitna River's form were studied.
155
----------~~-------------------------~--.--
Title:
Area:
Interest:
preliminary Report on Water-Power Res~urce~
Little Susitna River and Cottonwood Creek.
Lawrence, F. F. ; USGS 01a rch 1949) Open F i I e
Report #70 (13 p.)
Priority Area I.
Interest Level 2.
I I lustrations: f) Location map with proposed works on Little Susitna
River and Cottonwood Creek. (seale 1''=2 1/2 mile, approx.)
Description:
2) 26 Black and white photos of resources of the area.
3) Temperature comparison. Matanuska Val ley with North
Central U.S.
4) Precipitation curves (1948 compared with mean).
5) Hydrograph, Little Susitna River (in C.F.S for 1948).
6) Flow duration curve, Little Susitna river (dis-
charge in second feet-vertical axis; percent of
time-horizontal axis.
This report was based on field investi~ations made
during a six month period in 1948. The purpose was
to present an estimate of the water-power potentials
of Little Susitna River and Cottonwood Creek.
The report contains these sections: introduction; geo-
graphy; history; water supply. climatology. runoff, esti-
mates of flow. quality of water; the water uti I ization
plan; stream regulation, water power, undeveloped sites
and the power market. The suggested power development
plans include: diversion of 3 dam sites, a series of
canals and pressure conduits to a powerhouse.
156
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
--------------
~-~ort on the Potential Development of Water Resources
in the Susitna River Basin. USDI, Bureau of Reclamation,
(Auqust 1952), (188 p. lllus.).
Susitna River Basin.
Interest Level 3.
This 1952 report studied the potential for development of
the natural resources of the Susitna Basin.
Known resource evaluations and economic activities are
included. An ultimate plan of development of hydropower
resources for the basin are described, and includes 12
major dams. A total of 25 separate sites were examined and
studied as possible projects.
157
F. WATER RESOURCE MANAGE~~ENT
') Title:
Area·
Interest:
!··1aps:
The Cook Inlet Environment: A Background Study of
Available Knowledge. Evans, C.D.: et. al. for U.S. Army
Corps of Enqlneers, as part of University of Alaska
Resource and Science Center, Alaska Sea Grant Program,
(August 1972), (I I 3 p. i II us.).
Cook Inlet, inclusive of Susitna River lowlands.
Interest Level I.
AI I information depicted on maps is either on a generalized
State map or a Cook Inlet Regional map at a sclae of
approximately 1"=200 nautical miles.
Information shown on maps includes, but is not limited to,
the fo I I ow i nq :
I) Structural features and location of producing oi I
and gas fields.
2) Generalized lsopachs.
3) Tectonic map; earthquakes (with magnitude greater or
equal to 6.0): seismic zones; existing and planned seis-
mograph stations
4) Bottom sediments in Cook Inlet.
5) Surface circulation patterns and maximum tidal-
current contours.
6) Surface salinity distribution.
7) Surface phosphorous, nitrate concentrations,
silicate concentrations, and suspended sediment
concentrations.
8) Sockeye Salmon spawninq systems.
9) Halibut, King Crab, Tanner Crab, Shrimp and Seal lop
distribution or abundance in Lower Cook Inlet.
10) Volcanoes.
I I) Recognized recreation or management units.
12) Petroleum instal lations in Cook Inlet Basin.
13) Distribution of oil from spil I at Drift River,
December 30 1967.
14) Principal areas of conflict and competition between
major resource users
158
·~----------------------··--------·-.
I~
c
Tables:
Description:
Subject matter similar to the above I isted maos are
included in the report.
This report was prepared to provide a basis for
environmental impact statements that the Corps of
Engineers anticipates wi I I be required for activities
relating to the exploration, development and production
of petroleum in Cook Inlet.
The report consists of three phases:
Phase I is a discussion of the environment, resources
and cultural activities in the Inlet that would affect,
or would be affected by, petroleum operations.
The report area includes alI water and submerged land
below the mean high water of Cook Inlet; and includes
some aspects of adjacent lands.
Phase I section headings are as follows:
I) Physical characteristics
2) Estuary characteristics
3) Plankton and intertidal organisms, fisheries,
shellfish, shrimp, birds, marine mannals, and
endangered species.
4) Geologic fish ohenomena
5) Other competing resources: recreation, trans-
portation, coastal facilities, transportation
conflicts, tidelands and tidelend management, and
potential mineral resource development.
Phase 2 is a discussion of the economics of petroleum
competing resources, and the socioeconomic effects
of petro I eum deve I ooment on the commu'n i ty. The impacts
this economic activity has had on selected communities in
the area is briefly discussed.
Phase 3 is a series of descriptions of what could occur in
a given set of circumstances -effects of the environ-
ment on structures and operations in the resulting impact
on the environment.
159
C)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
r·1aps:
Description:
A _ _P_rogra"l._for Cook In I et A I aska for the _Co I I e~tj_Q_'l_,
Storage and Analvsis of flaseline Environmentai __ U_~..i!.·
Institute of Water Resources, University of Alaska,
Reoort No. IWR-7, (no date), (284 p. illus.).
Cook Inlet, includinq Susitna Lowlands.
Interest Level 2.
I) Samolinq Station (Terrestrial, intertirlal, offshore)
locations (1"=15 miles, olate).
A total of 45 other maos, tables and other miscellaneous
illustrations are included in the reoort. AI I are on
qeneral ized area maos of the entire Cook Inlet reqion,
or area mans.
The o~jectives and contents of the reoort are as
fo II ows:
I) Descriptions of the existing environmental conditions
of Cook Inlet in the areas of hydroloqy, hydraulics,
bioloqy, physical and chemical characterisitcs of the
water, sediment characteristics, and seasonal variations
of the above characteristics.
2) Waste discharqe inventory to describe the quantity
and type of municipal, industrial and agricultural
waste inputs to the Inlet.
3) Optimum locations of waste effluent discharae to
Cook Inlet.
4) lnvestiqation of special oroblems occurring due to
oi I spil Is and existinq and nrooosed waste discharae.
5) A framework for directinq and evaluatintl estuarine
data collection oroqrams.
6) Discussion of a data storat1e faci I ity for cataloqinq,
storinq, analyzinq and pub I ishinq data collected from
estuarine data collection proqrams.
160
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Alaska Water Resources Research Needs for the 70's.
~nstitute of Water Resources, University of Alaska,
Report Number 1\~R-39, (September 1973). (155 p. illus).
Statewide
Interest Level 3.
This report is based on a seminar by the same title
held in Anchorage, Alaska October 27-28, 1973.
The objectives of the seminar were to identify the water
resource problems peculiar to Alaska of the 70's, to
de I i neate the "State of the art,'' and to estab I ish
directions for future research.
Representatives from each of the predominant water-
using industries--fishing, mininq, forest products,
and enqineerinq --together with leaders in water
management and research took part in the seminar.
Panel discussions were held on the fol lowinq four
topics: I) Water quality; 2) water resources control;
3) resources development; and 4) resources administration.
161
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Tables:
Description:
\~ater Resource Manaqement for the Cook In I et Basin
Kenai Peninsula Region: A Study of Existi~a~tic~
with Recommendations for a Comprehensive Plan (~~L~L·
final Report). Prepared by David L. Peterson and
Associates, Engineering Science, Inc., and Clark and
Groff Engineers, Inc.; for the Department of Natural
Resources, (t,1ay 1971 ) , (85 p. i II us.).
Cook Inlet Basin, includinq alI of Susitna Basin,
and Kenai Peninsula.
Interest Level 3.
I) Flow data for Rivers of the Cook Inlet Basin.
2) Groundwater quality from selected wei Is in the
Cook Inlet/Kenai Peninsula Study Area.
3) Estimated percentage increases in major economic
sectors, 1967-1980.
A total of 39 figures depicting employment, wage
and salaries, and other economic indices are
included.
The study places emphasis on: I) Definition of
interactions between different types of economics
and water resource uses; 2) consequences of pursuing
various economic and water resource management
alternatives; 3) characterization of the existing
economy and water resource management; and 4) defin-
ition of alternatives for achieving water resource
management.
The report results are characterized as a ''plan
for a pI an . "
The content of the report is orqanized in the fol lowinq
manner: I) conclusions and recommendations; 2) frame
work and context for study; 3) study area: 4) economic
development; 5) needs and interactions in water
resource management; 6) alternatives and approaches
for water resource management; and 7) references.
162
V. ONGOING PROJECTS
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Upper Susitna River Basin Hydropower Studies. Advanced
Enqineerinq and Design.
Eric Yould, Susitna Project Coordinator and Chief,
HydrolorJic Enqlneerlnq Section; U.S. Army Corps of
Enqineers; District Engineer; Anchoraqe, Alaska.
Upper Susitna sub-basin.
As a result of the Interim Feasibi I ity Study, (published
December 1975) the Corps presented to Congress a $1.5
bil I ion project composed of a 635 foot concrete
dam at Devil Canyon, 14.5 miles east of the Alaska
Railroad at Gold Creek: and a 810 foot earthfi I I
dam at the Watana site, 31 miles upstream from
Devil Canyon.
The Corps is presently preparing a Plan of Study
ll1dl will uulllne tile work proqram, cost estlma·~es
and schedule for the Phase I -Advanced Engineering
and Design of this two-dam project.
The Corps would I ike streaM gauqinq stations at
the following locations to augment the three existinq
stations on the Susitna mainstream: I) Confluence
of the Susitna and Chulitna, 2) Alaska Hiqhway
bridge where it crosses the Susitna below the
Talkeetna, 3) Tyone River, 4) Susitna River at
Cantwel I, 5) Devi I 's Canyon site, and 6 Watana
dam site.
The Plan of Study is expected to be completed by
October 1977 .
Other anticipated work products wil I include detailed
hydrology, transmission corridors, additional fish
and wildlife inventories, and an environmental
impact statement (draft, revised and final versions
thereof).
Following completion of the Plan of Study in October,
1977 through 1981.
163
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Surface Water Quality Samplinq, Capital Site Aren,
Department of Environmental Conservation;
Regional Environmental Supervisor:
Kyle J. Cherry; 274-5527.
State Priority Area I.
A series of chemical/bacterioJogic tests wi I I be made of
the waters of Wi I low Creek, Deception Creek, Little Susitna
River and any large lakes in the Capital Site vicinity.
Subsequent water quality testing wil I probably be narrowed
to important bio-chemical parameters.
Onqo i nq .
July -October 1977.
164
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Oescription:
Status:
Duration:
Nancy Lake Water Oua I i ty Monitor i n'l •
Department of Environmental Consnrvation;
Reqional Environmental Supervisor;
Ky I e J. Cherry; 274-5527 •
State Priority Area I.
A ful I ranqe of bacterioloqic and chemical water tests
wil I be made of Nancy Lake waters. Samoles wi I I also
be taken from the lake's four inlets and one outlet.
Raw data from the water quality monitorinq project will
be presented in published form. Problem areas and data
collection conclusions reqardinq the lake's water quality
wil I be included.
Onqolnq.
July-October 1977.
165
!,;
1-
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Hydrological Studies related to Coal Mining.
Dave Scully; U.S. Geoloqical Survey;
1209 Orca Street; Anchorage, Alaska; 279-1563.
State priority area 4a and 4b, Aeluqa area, and
State priority area 2, Peters Creek area.
As part of a Statewide Alaska coal resource project,
this project collects data that characterizes present
hydrologic conditions in areas of known potential for
coal development and in an area of active mining.
Information obtai ned inc I udes: I ) quantIty and season a I
distribution of water discharge: 2) seasonal and areal
variations in surfacce water quality, Including orqanic
and inorganic constituents, minor -element concentrations,
sediment load, turbidity, some temperature measurements;
and 3) stream-basin characteristics.
In the Aeluqa area, stream measurement stations are at the
following locations: I) Chuitna River near Tyonek: 2) Chuit
Creek, I .6 miles above mouth; 3) Chuit Creek, 5.4 miles above
mouth; 4) Chuitna River, below \~olverine Fork; 5) Capos
Creek near Tyonek; 6) Bishop Creek near Tyonek; 7) Chuit
Creek at the mouth: and 8) Chuit River above Chuit Creek.
In the Peters Creek area, stream measurement stations are
on Peters Creek near Petersvi I le and Peters Creek above
t~artin Creek.
Field investigations were made in Apri I, May, July, August,
and October 1975 thru 1977 at the Beluqa, Peters Creek
and Healy mineral areas. The project is being conducted
in cooperation with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Data collection wi I I continue through the 1979 season.
166
=)
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Hydroloqic Data Compilation for the Cook Inlet Area.
Geoffrey Freethey/Larry Leveen; U.S. Geolo~ical Survey:
Water Resources Division; 1?-09 Orca Street; Anchora~e,
Alaska; 279-1563.
For purposes of the hydroloqic data compilation, the
Cook Inlet area is divided into three qeoqraoh.ic areas:
a) Northwest Cook Inlet area encompassing Knik, r .. 1atan-
uska, Little Susitna, and Susitna River basins,
including the drainaqe into the west shore or Cook
Inlet.
b) Knik Arm to Turnagain Arm.
c) Kenai Peninsula.
lhe purpose ot the project is to collect, compile and
make avai !able to cooperatinq agencies existinq hydro-
logic data for the Cook Inlet area.
Agencies cooperating in the data comoilation include:
the Department of Environmental Conservation; Depart
ment of Natural Resources; Division of Geological and
Geophysical Surveys; Kenai Peninsula Borough; and the
Municipality of Anchorage.
The hydrologic data compilation includes alI groundwater,
surface-water, and water quality data in files and pub-
lications of USGS, the Department of Environmental
Conservation, and the Department of Natural Resources,
as wei I as new data to be collected during field inven-
tories.
The data base for area "a" above inc I udes information
on 20 springs, I 100 wei Is, 250 ground water sites with
water quality information, and surface water sites.
Surface water data ranges from a single miscellaneous
discharge measurement. to long-term continuous stream-
flow records including sediment loads and a wide range
of water quality parameters. Surface-water data is
being analyzed in terms of flood frequency low flow,
and the projection of these characteristics to selected
ungaged streams in the Susitna Basin (using a multiPle-
regression method adapted for Alaska).
Groundwater data Is being compiled on I :250,000 scale and
I :63,360 scale maps. The maps wil I indicate the geo-
graphic points at which information is available.
167
[1ec;cri ot ion:
(cont)
Status:
IJurntion:
AI I data Is heino nlaced intn the WATST0RF cnMnuter
svstem anrl may he retrieved for intornretive nnnlysis.
It wi I I he possible, when nl I rlata has been amassorl,
to obtnin nrintouts of snecific nnalytical values for,
saMples col lecterl froM locntional entries hv:
a) indicatinq the latitude anrl lonqitudo of desired
information, b) by townshin and ranqe down to the
quarter-quarter-quarter section (10 acres). and
c) eventual lv it is anticipated adantinq data
retrieval by river-mile or drainage basin basis.
Oata collection and compilation for tho t1atanuska,
Susitna and Knik drainaqe basins. the west shore of
Cook Inlet. and tho Kenai Peninsula are anoroxi~atelv
75 nercent complete.
Campi lation of hydrolo1ic data for the Anchorafle t1uni-
cipalltv has beon a part of other onaolno nrojects and
dati'! has vet to be entered into \1/ATSF'RE.
Mans of qroundwater dati':! are exoectecf to be oub I I shed
by winter 1977, and written data Interpretation to
follow In about one year (1978).
The hydrologic data collection Is an onqoinq process.
168
··~
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
STORET Computerized Data Rase System.
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.
Statewide.
STORET Is a computerized data base system maintained by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (nationally). for the
STOrage and RETrieval of water quality data.
The purpose of STORET is to store and retrieve water quality
data relating to rivers and streams. It Is intended to
provide an open-ended system available to many aqencies as
a repository and/or dispersing mechanisM to optimize water
data use and handl inq.
The Alaska Water Laboratory has the responsibl ity of
establ ishinq the STORET system on a functional basis in
Alaska. Data is stored by location, date and parameter.
Numerous water quality parameters are included.
To help facil !tate the uti I ization of STORET in Alaska the
Institute of \'later Resources prepared a set of coded maos
(I :63,360 or I :250,000 scale) from which any stream (or
sampl inq point) can be located and indexed for the storage
and subsequent retrieval of water quality or related
information.
Continuinq Project.
Ongoing.
169
G--
c
Pro.iect:
Contact
Area:
Description:
\'IATSTORE Computer System.
Richmond Rrown; U.S. Geoloqical Survey; 277-5526.
Statewide.
\vATS TORE is a computerized storage and retr i eva I system
for water resources data maintained by the Water Resources
Division of the U.S. Geological Survey. The central
computer is in Reston, Virginia and is accessed throu~h
terminals around the country. In Alaska there is one
terminal at the USGS offices in Anchorage, and a
terminal in Juneau which USGS shares with the Forest
Service, National f·1arine Fisheries Service and Bureau
of ~1 i nes. The A I a ska term ina Is are hooked into the
system via a telecommunications network. Data is filed
in the system according to common characterisitcs
(i e. groundwater sites, stream gaginq stations, etc,)
and data collection frequencies (i.e: daily, annual etc.).
Daily Values File. This file stores data collected on
a daily basis or through the use of continous recording
devices whose data can be reduced to a daily value.
The type of infotmation entered in the file includes
streamflow measureMents, reservoir volumes, water
temperatures, sediment concentrations, water tables.
and others.
Peak Flow File. This file stores annual maximum stream-
flow data and water levels at (a scale graduated in
meters or feet) for surface water stations operated
USGS and other agencies (Forest Service, National Oceanic
and Atmosphere Administration, etc.) in Alaska.
The data can be returned on an entering agency basis
(i.e. one could retrieve only that information entered
by Department of Natural Resources) or on a collective
basis (i.e. alI the information entered by USGS,
Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of
Natural Resources, Department of Fish and Game, etc,
on a specific area.)
~Vater Quality File. This file is maintained in WATSTORE
independently of the previously mentioned files. However,
lab analyses are capable of being cross-referenced to the
Water Oual ity File and water table levels cross-referenced
to the Daily Value Files.
Common forms of WATSTORE output include the following:
Computer Printed Tables which I ist actual data are the
most common output.
170
Oescription:
<cont)
Computer Printed Graphs such as bar qrarhs, I ine qraphs
and site-location maps can be produced by the I ine
printer
Statistical Analyses such as regression analyses,
Variance, and correlations can be performed.
Oigital Plottinn can be done with an off-1 ine printer
to produce hydroqraphs, contour maps of water table
levels, x-y point plots, and others. (NOTE: This
capabi I ity is not available at the Alaska terminals
due to the cost of the telecommunications I ink and the
slow speed of the off I ine plotter as compared to the
line printer. However, the local USGS offices can
have digital plotting performed at their reqional
offices at r.J!elo Park then mailed to Alaska.)
Primary locational entires into the WATSTORE files are
by latitude and lonqitude but they are also desiqniated
by township and range down to the quarter-quarter-quarter
section (10 acres).
lnvestiqations are underway to determine if stream
hydrology Information could be stored and retrieved on a
river-mile or drainage basin basis. AI I streams
appearing on the Alaskan topographic maps have been
catalogued accordinq to EPA's STORET stream coding
system
USGS has an aqreement with EPA whereby a II the 1'/ATSTORE
water quality data is transferred into EPA's STORET
system. However, STORET is not transferred into WATSTORE.
An interface has been developed which wi I I permit the
access of STORET through a I'IATSTORE terminal and should
be operable in Alaska by June of 1977.
AI I water quality measurements put into the system as a
USGS entry must meet USGS standards. For example,
information on nitrates or phosphorus in waters must
be done by the standard chemical analysis procedures
for those parameters which are accepted by USGS. If
a chemical, measurement was entered by ADNR, ADEC,
or ADF&G, for example, and if it was not k~own that
their analytical standards were the same as USGS, then
that data would be tagged ADNR, ADEC, or ADF&G in the
output since they were the originating agencies.
This would be of value in any event since a user may
wish to go directly to information and the taqginq
would serve as a type of index.
171
Description:
<cont)
Status:
Duration:
It is possible to have USGS produce a cooy of thA maqnetic
tape which includes ~I I the water dat~ stored for Alaska
at any qiven time.
Computerized stora~e for the Matanuska, Susitna and Knik
drainage basins, the west shore of Cook Inlet and the
Kenai Peninsula is approximately 75 percent complete.
Anchoraqe Municioal ity data has not been entered into
VJATSTORE to date.
This is an onqoinq, cooperative system for storaqe and
retrieval of data that requires continual input.
172
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration
(Proposed) Matanuska-Susitna 8orou11h-wide Flood
Insurance Study.
Paul Pinard; Corps of Enqineers; 752-3246.
Entire ~1atanuska-Susitna Borough. communities over
100 population.
In compliance with the Flood Diaster Protection
Act (1973) the Flood Insurance Administration has
requested the Corps of Enqineers to conduct the flood
insurance study.
Detailed hydrologic computations wi I I depend on fundinq;
but del lneation, extent and magnitude of the 100 year
flood is anticipated.
Previous flood insurance investigations have rei ied on
available mapping, photos or testimony to delineate
the 100 year flood.
Project has not started and further investigation wi I I
take place in August 1977.
Ongoing.
173
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
ReclaMation Considerations for Potential 8evelooment of
the Cook Inlet Coal Fields.
Ralph Bel I; USDA, Soil Conservation Service.
State prioritv areas 4a and 4b, and Matanuska Val ley
Coal Fields.
This is a joint proposal between the Agricultural Experiment
Station, University of Alaska and the SCS to determine
the impacts of development of Cook Inlet coal resources,
and the best methods for reclamation of disturbed areas
The SCS intends to conduct field evaluations at a site in the
Be I uqa coa I fie Ids. AES-f i e l.d eva I uat ions are proposed
for the Sutton site in the ~~atanuska Coa I fie Ids.
Extensive expansion of surface and qround water data collection
systems is prooosed. Proqrams are proposed that would entail
gathering data on the fol lowinq: a) surface water quantity and
quality; b) ground water quantity and quality; c) soi I samol inq
analysis; d) adaption of vegetation, including greenhouse
experments and field studies; 3) evaluation of revegetation
alternatives.
Proposed.
1977-1981, (tentative).
174
,)
Project:
Contact:
Area
Description:
Status:
Duration
Sediment Stations.
Pat J. Sti I Is; U.S. Geolqoical Survey, 218 E Street;
277-5526
Statewide.
A network of sedi~ent stations Is maintained to prov.ide
information on sediment In streams, lakes and estuaries by
determining: I) seasonal normal concentrations and particle-
size distribution of suspended sediment: 2) sediment yields;
3) particle size distribution of bed and bank material;
4) bedload transport; and 5) ranges of turbidity.
Suspended-sediment concentrations are determined from
samples collected by using depth-integrating samplers.
Samples usually are obtained at several verticals in the
cross section or a single sample may be obtained at a fixed
point and a coefficient appl led to determine the mean con-
centration in the cross sections.
At some stations, suspended-sediment samples are collected
periodically at many verticals in the stream cross section.
Although data collected periodically may represent conditions
only at the time of observation, such data are useful in
establishing seasonal relations between quality and streamflow
in predicting long-term sediment-discharge characteristics of
the stream.
The following is a I ist of sediment station sites; however,
this list is notal I inclusive of samples sites:
-Caribou Creek near Sutton
-t,1atanuska River at Palmer
-Susitna River at Susitna Station
-Susitna River near Denali
-Susitna River at r~ld Creek
Continuing Project.
Continuing.
175
Project:
Contact:
Aren:
Oescription:
Wasi I Ia Water nnd Sewer Svstem.
1-1/illiam Conyers, Branch Manager; R & 11 r:onsultants;
Rox 1240; ~~asi lin, Alaska; 376-5288.
State Priority area I, City of Wasil Ia.
Alternative plans for a sewaqe disposal system and water
supply system are beinq prepared for the lt.Jasi I Ia area in
response to community needs and Section 201 of Public
law 92-500, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
The area of study consists of 18 square miles of land
within the city I imits and to the Northwest surrounding
Was i I I a Lake •
The following pre I iminary information has been prepared by
the Consultant.
I) Land use patterns map; includes residential (single,
and multi-family) business-commercial. I iqht industrial,
mixed use business/residential, aqricultural, public
parks/open space (no scale).
2) Terrain unit map; includes creek flood plain, creek
terrace, outwash, outwash terrace, ice contact features,
and glacial moraine (no scale).
3) A table gives properties of major land form units and
engineering interpretations.
4) A vic i n i ty map (at I "=I m i I e sea I e) i nd i cat i nq tentative
locations of alternative treatment plant sites and sewer
outfal I alternatives.
5) Water System Master Plan mao; indicates oroposed 8 inch
areawide I ine and 8 inch domestic flow I ines, and water
storage tanks.
6) Two alternative water facilities systems. (no scale).
7) Two alternative sewer facilities; including interceptor,
trunk I ine and laterals.
A 3 page paper describes the technique of terrain analysis
used which consisted of identifying land forms and terrain
units by air photo interpretation. Terrain units are
described as the landform type expected to occur from the
ground surface to a depth of 25 feet.
176
Status:
Duration:
The first draft of the Wasilla Water and Sewer Reoort \.,ill
be released in late September. The final report wi I I be
pub I ished in November.
Present to November 1977.
177
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Public Participation 208 Planning Mat-Su Borough.
Mike Klepinger; Alaska Center for the Environment;
913 West 6th Avenue; Anchorage, Alaska 99501; 274-3621.
Mat-Su Borough.
In compliance with Publ·ic Law 92-500, the Alaska Department
of Environmental Conservation has asked Mike Klepinger
to oversee the public participation program in the
Mat-Su Borough.
The first meeting of this group was scheduled to be held
September 14, 1977 in Palmer.
The objectives of the public participation program are:
I) Inform the pub I ic of the extent of the problems.
2) Seek input in the development of technical and insti-
tutional solutions.
3) Seek public input on perceptions and definitions of
future problems to be solved.
4) Make recommendations for solutions in accordance with
the best avai I able management practices.
First meeting to be held September 1977.
Continuing.
178
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
~)
Alaska 208 Proqram for Undesiqnated Area.
Ron Hansen, Water Pollution; 465-2644;
Elliott Lipson, Program Coordinator; 465-2684;
Jan Wrentmore, Public Coordinator; Department of
Environmental Conservation; Pouch 0; Juneau, Alaska 9981 I.
Statewide.
Area-wide waste treatm~nt management planning (Section 208,
P.L. 92-500) for the undesiqnated area of the State, (that is
all areas outside the Municipality of Anchor~qe), is the
responsibility of the Department of Environmental Conservation.
The Alaska 208 program for undesiqnated area planning wi I I consist
of five technical work programs -all being conducted by
consultants under contract to ADEC. They are;
I. Vi I lage Sanitation
2. Waste Oi I Disposal
3. Silviculture
4. Transportation Corridors
5. Surface Mining
Several surface mining locations within the Susitna Basin
wi I I be considered. Physical or chemical pollutants as a
result of placer and gravel mining operations (non-point
discharge) are evident in the basin. Specifically, the Peters
Creek, Cache Creek and Birch Creek mining areas wil I be con-
sidered in the analysis. Funding may not be sufficient to
provide sediment analysis of water quality sampl inq.
In December 1976, DEC published the Final 208 Work Plan,
(77p.).
Consultants were choosen in April 1977 for the five technical
work programs; work on each program has progressed throughout
the summer 1977.
1977 -1978.
179
f"lro_ject:
\_,ont:'lct:
Area:
Descriotion:
Status:
!Juration
Alaska 303E River Basin Plannin~. Susitna Rasin.
Charlotte Chastin 465-2644
Department of Environmental Conservation
Pouch 0
Juneau, Alaska 9981 I.
Susitna River Basin.
In como I iance with the requirements of Pub I ic Law 92-500.
the Federal Water Pol Iutton Control Act, the State
Department of Environmental Conservation is in the
process of providin~ plans for river basins as desi~nated
in Section 303E basin planning has not been clearly
outlined.
A basin plan of qeneral aopl ication is underway for the
Susitna Rasin, but further contact should be made with
the DEC, Juneau to clarify the puroose, scone and
timeframe of the plan.
No further information is known.
Unknown.
180
Project:
contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
)
Southcentral Level B Study.
Frank Urabeck, Study Manaqer.
Southcentral Region.
The Level B Study Team involves Federal, State, local
and private entities in evaluatinq past and present
land and water related issues in order to implement
programs in areas where resource data are not adequate,
or do not meet management needs.
The direction of future Level B-funded tasks is not
sufficiently clear for explanation within the context
of this bibliography.
It is suggested that ocnstant contact and coordination
be maintained between the Level B Study and any other
land and water manaqement study in Southcentral Alaska.
A second draft of the Plan of Work was published and
distributed for review in October.
181
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Oeser i pt ion:
Status:
Duration:
Wi I low Creek Companion Study.
Paul Pinard, Project: U.S. Army Corps of Enqineers:
District Enqineer; Anchoraqe; 752-3246.
State Priority Area I.
The purpose of the study is to delineate the flood-
plains immediately ad.iacent to Deception Creek,
Willow Creek and the Little Susitna River. An
attempt wil I be made to del i~eate the 10-,50-,
100-, arid 500-year floods.
Development schemes ranqing from complete develop-
ment of the floodplain, to no development of the
floodplain, wil I be studi~d to ~etermine the rami-
fications of various potential growth schemes.
The State wil I be asked to provide the criteria
for the growth scenarios; for example 20-and
50-year levels of potential d~velopment
within the study area'. In return. the Corps wi II
model basin changes in hydrology economics and
other environmental factors based on the growth
criteria. The Capital Site Planning Commission
wil I be asked for input into the potential growth
scenarios.
The Companion Study wil I incorporate data and maps
generated for the unpubl lshed Little Susitna Flood
Plain Information Report.
During the 1977 field season the Corps, in
cooperation with the Capital Site Planning Com-
mission, shall contract for aerial ohotoqraphs, mapping,
and river cross sections along Willow and Deception
Creeks r~app i ng sha II be pI otted at I "-200 feet
with 5 foot contours: drawings shall also include
planemetric features, spot elevations and locations
of alI river cross sections.
The Alaska District, Corps of Engineers has re-
ceived approval from the Office of the Chief of
Engineers (OCE) to proceed with the Companion Study.
The project is expected to be concluded by October
1978.
The "PI an of Study'', which is schedu I ed to be coM-
pleted by October 1977, wil I provide the guide! ines and
procedures for accomplishing the Willow Companion Study.
182
---~------··'
J
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Metropolitan Anchorage Urban Study <MAUS).
Bi I I Lloyd, Army Corps of Engineers, 274-0032
Municipality of Anchorage, the Chugiak-Eagle River
area, the Point MacKenzie to Palmer-Wasi I Ia portion
of the Mat-Su Borough.
The MAUS report is a compilation and interpretation of
the data being used to plan alternative solutions for:
I) Adequate and dependable water supply sources.
2) Improved and expanded wastewater collection and
treatment faci I ities.
3) Water quality in Cook Inlet, the receiving waters for
our wastewater treatment faci I ity.
The MAUS estuary study examines water quality, oceanography
and biology at the Point Woronzof vicinity of Upper Cook
Inlet. The investigation determines effects of wastewater
effluent discharges, as defined by PL 92-500, on Knik Arm
and Cook Inlet water quality.
MAUS Stage 2 Report was printed in June and avai I able
for examination.
Upon completion for the next year the MAUS Wastewater
Treatment Faci I ity Plan wi I I be given to the Municipality
whose decision it wi I I be whether or not to use it in
compl lance with EPA enforcement of PL 92-500.
183
so i Is
)
Section IV
CONTE~HS: SOILS Page
I. I NTROOUCT I ON & SlJHMARY 185
II. INOEX 186
II I. PURL I SHED INFORMATION 187
IV. r1APS 197
V. ONGOING PROJECTS 198
184
I • I NTROOUCT I ON & SUW~ARY: SO I LS
.·~ I . I NTROOLJCT I ON & SlJM~1ARY: sn I LS
The U.S. Deoartment of A~riculture, Soi I Conservation Service is the
primary aQency responsible for conservation, manaQeMent and investi~ation
of soi I pronertiP.s. In Alaska, SCS works closelv with the tJniversity
of Alaska, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, and various Federal and
State agencies, often on a cooperative work hasis.
Soi I surveys are made at several levels of intensity-detailed, reconnaissance
and exploratory. Each soil survey consists of a man showinq the location
of the various soils, and a report which describes soils within each mappinq
unit, interoretinq soi I characteristics for a variety of uses.
The entire State of Alaska is covered by exploratory soi I survey. Detailed
soi I surveys exist for the Matanuska -Susitna Valleys. and for the Susitna
Experimental Forest. However, the entire ~-1at-Su Valley is not included
in these surveys. Additional detailed work is in proqress in the Wi I low,
Denali and Skwentna regions.
Due to the I imited quantity of detailed information available, nearlv alI
studies annotated are considered of primary interest level.
The distribution of eolian (wind-blown) silt and sand in the agricultural
areas of the Mat-Su Val ley is discussed in a report by the Geological
Survey.
Another imoortant report discusses the distribution of clay minerals, of
relevance because of potential petroleum deposition sedimentary formations.
185
I I • I NO EX : SO I LS
I I . INDEX: SO I LS
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Susitna Val ley Area Soi I Survey.
2. Matanuska Val ley Area Soi I Survey.
3. Soi Is of the Susitna Experimental Forest Area.
4. Eolian Deposits of the Matanuska Val ley Agricultural Area,
5. Contributions to Clay Mineralogy and Petrology, Cook Inlet Basin.
6. Soi I Development in Recent Loess in the Matanuska Val ley.
7. Cryorthods of the Cook lnlet-Susitna Lowland, Alaska.
MAPS
I. Soil Survey Area Map.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Dena I i Area Soi I Survey.
2. Skwentna Soil Survey.
3. Wi I low Area Detailed Soi I Survey.
186
I I I • PUBLISHED INFORMATION: SOILS
,)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Tables:
_)
SoJJ_$_urv_!:~:_S_us I tn"!_'@..!J_P~~~a L-~l_~sk~. Schoenhorster,
[)ale 8. and Hinton, Robert, 8.: lJSf)A Soil Conservation
Service and ·the Universitv of Alaska Institute of Arwlcultural
Sciences, Wecember 1973) . ( 71 p. i I I us, ) •
State Priority Areas I ,2 and 3a. This survey area includes a
band alonq the Susitna River (from 8 to 18 miles wide), from
the confluence of the Chulitna, Susitna and Talkeetna Rivers
on the north, to Cook Inlet. The southern half of the survey
area does not extend west of the Susitna River.
Interest Leve I I •
I) General Soil t-1ap, (1:380,160 scale).
2) Index to Map Sheets ( I : 380, I 60 sea I e) •
3) Sheets 1-42, aerial photos with soil names, slope,
drainaqe, relief and soil survey data, <1:31 680 scale).
I) Approximate acreaqe and proportionate extent of the
so i Is.
2) Estimated averaqe yields per acre of principal crops
under two levels of manaqement.
3) Woodland suitability qroupinq of soi Is.
4) Ratings and I imitations of soi Is for recreational
purposes.
5) Engineering test data (includes parent material, depth
from surface, moisture density, mechanical analysis, I iquid
I imit, plasticity index, and classification).
6) Estimated engineering properties of the soi Is (includes
depth to seasonal high water table, depth from surface of
typical profile, classification, permeabi I ity, available
water capacity, reaction, and shrink-wei I potential.
7) Engineering interpretations of the soi Is.
8) Classification of soi I series of Susitna Val ley Area.
9) Temperature and precipitation data.
10) Probability of specified temperatures in spring and fal 1.
187
!lescri rt ion: ThA report contains th~ followinn sections:
how the survev wns Mnrl~: nn exnlnnntion of the ~enernl soi I
mnn; n soils rlescriotion; usA nnrl mnnnllf~mont of tho soils:
formntiqr] anrl clnssi ficntion of the soi Is: 'lenAral natur"!
of the ama; I iterature cited; and qlossi'lry and 'lUirle to
maopinn units usod.
The report and the qeneral soi I mnn descrihe sol I
associations, or oronortional patterns of soils, which
serve as a suitnt>le tool for judqinq larqe tracts of
land. The renort and the aerial mans also describe
and i I lustrate in detai I the soi I horizons, color,
texture, structure and bounrlqries. Factors that have
affected formatiqn of soils and orocesses in
differentiation of soi I horizons are described.
The Soil Survev renort contains information that can be
appl led in a perfunctory manner to tho manni'"Jina of farms,
ranches and woodlands: in selectinq sites for structures;
and in .)udqinq the suitabi I ltv of tracts of land for
aariculture, industry and recreation. The interoretations
uti I ized in this renort rlo not serve as n substitute for
samol inq and testinq needed at a site chosen for soecific
ennineerinq work.
188
) Title:
Area:
Interest:
t·.1aps:
Tables:
_:Sol I Survey: Matanuska Val ley Area, Alask~. Schoephorster,
D.R.; USDA Soli Con-servation-Serv-ice-f'n cooperation with the
Alaska Agricultural Experiment Station, (June 1968),
(67 p, illus.).
State Priority areas and 3a; Matanuska Val ley north-
east to Chickaloon and south to Kn i k River.
Interest Leve I I .
I ) Gehera I So i I r-1ap: r-1atanuska Va II ey Area (I "=5 m i I es).
Colorerl map of 12 soi I associations.
2) Index to Map Sheets, 1-72 (.I "=5 m if es).
3) She~ts 1-72, aerial photos with sol I names (symbolized)
drainage, relief and so if survey data. (I :20 1 000 sea I e).
I) Temperature· and precipitation in the Matanuska Valley
Area.
2) Avera~e dates for beqinninq and end of seasons durinq
which temperature is equal to or above that specified.
3) Two qraphs: Probab I e number of days per year that
temperature wil I not drop below soecified deqrees at
a) Matanuska Agricultural Experiment Station, ~-1atanuska;
and 2) Palmer.
4) Acreage and proportionate extent of the soils.
5) Estimated acreage yields of principal crops under
two levels of management.
6) Estimated oronerties of sol Is.
7) Engineering interpretations of soi I properties.
8) Engineering test data.
9) Classification of sol I series accordinq to current
and 1938 systems of classificat1on.
189
r)e~;cri pt ion: The rcnort includes the followinq descrintive c-,ections:
I) The ~eneral n~ture of the area: qeolo~v. cl im~te,
veqetation, farminq, history, settlement and industry.
2) The 12 soi I associations in the area.
3) Soi I series and their coMponent mapplnq units.
4) Land clearinq. forti I izatinn, irriqation, suitahle crops,
and estimated yields are covered by the first part of this
section. The second part contains a descrintion of the
canahi I ity classification system by which soi Is are oroupe~
accqrdinq to Manaqement they need. rach ~anaoeM8nt qroun
is described and suqqestions are qiven for use and conser-
vation of sol Is.
5) Abundan~e of wild! ife is described in relation to
veqetation tvoes in each soi I association, and animals
freauentinq described habitats.
6) Use of soi Is as material in construction. This
information can be used hy en~ineers to:
a) Aid in industrial, business, residential and
recreational site selection.
b) Preliminary evaluations to aid in selectinq
locations for hiqhways, airnorts, and pipelines
and in olanninq detailed soil surveys.
c) Develop information for soi I and water conser-
vation.
d) Locate sources of sand and qravel.
e) Correlate performance of sturctures with sol I
Manpinq units.
f) Determine suitabi I ity of soi Is for off-road move-
ment of vehicles.
q) With sunolemental inforMation, make mans and reoorts
that can be used readily by enaineers.
190
J
nescrirtlon:
(cont)
7) Formation and Classification of Sol Is. Five major factors
influence the formation of sol I -climate, I ivinq orf)anisms;
rarent material toooqraphy, and time. Sol Is are classified
so that we may more easily identify their sif)nificant char-
acteristics. Soils are olaced in six categories: order,
suborder, qreat qrouo, subqroup, family and series.
8) Report references and qlossary of terms.
191
I~
Title:
Area:
Interest
t1ap:
Tahle:
fJescriotion:
Soi Is of the Susitnn F:xperiMnnt_:_~I _ _F_o_!___e_:~t __ A_r_e_~· Furbush, C.F,
andSchof!nhost0r. D.F.; IJSDA Soi I Consnrvntion Servic8,
< I n:s > , Ul p. > •
State Prioritv Areas I anrl ~.
Interest Level I.
Susitna ExoeriMental Forest t1aps 1-14, with soi I or land
type shown on mans. (1 11 =1,000 feet~ 1:12,000 scr~le)
I) Hean monthlv teMperature, precipitation, anrJ snowfall
nt Talkeetna Alaska.
2) Soil series of the Susitna F.xoerimental Forest Are?!
arranqed accordinCJ to the Soi I TaxonoMy of the ~~ational
So i I Survey.
The report is orqanized to inclurle the fol lowinq (jenera I
descriotions: physioqraphv, cliMate, how the soi Is are
nnmed and mapped, lq soi Is series, soi Is classification
and a leqend of the maooed soi I series.
How Soi Is are Nar!led and Mapped
A so i I orof i I e is the seouence of hor i zonta I I ayers. or
horizons. Soils that have profiles almost alike Make up
a soi I series. Each soi I series is named for a town or
other neoqraPhic feature near where it was first ohserved.
Soil series are further subdivided on the basis of external
features that are iMportant in use and mananeMent of the
soi I.
The location and distribution of the 19 soi I series and one
land type recoqnized in the area are shown on the soil
maps for this area. More detailed descriotions and
interpretations for many of the soils are in the
Susitna Val lev Area Soil Survey
192
·.~ Title:
Area:
Interest:
~1aps:
Tables:
Oeser ipti on:
:)
Eel ian Deposits of the ~1atanuska Valley Aqricultural_
Area. Trainer, F.F.; U.S. Geolo~ical Survey Rul letin
TT2f-c, (1961 ), (34 p. i I Ius., copy of oriqinal ).
State priority area I, and Matanuska Val ley area.
Interest Level 2.
I) ~~ap of Matanuska Valley aqricultural area. Index man
and detailed area are indicated. (Scale: 1/2''=5 miles
approximately.)
2) Percentage of sand in eel ian sediment near Palmer.
(Scale: 1/2''=2 miles, approximately.)
3) Contours showinq the thickness, in inches, of the
eel ian si It and sand near Palmer (Scale: 1/2''=2 miles,
approximately.)
I) Particle-size distribution in samples of eel ian
sediment.
2) Relation of thickness of the eel ian mantle to distance
from the present bluff of the Matanuska River north of
Palmer.
The report discusses in detai I the wide-spread distribution
of eel ian (wind-blown) si It and sand in the Matanuska
Val ley agricultural area. The area includes the lowland
north and east of Kn i k Arm, inc I ud·i ng \1as i I I a and Pa I mer.
The source areas, winds and deposition forminq the modern
eel ian sedimentation are discussed. Also included are
discussions of the eolian mantle and its arosion, and the
history of the eolian deposits. The flood plain and its
historic significance to these wind blown deposits is
analyzed by the author.
193
I~
b
'
Titln:
1\rno:
'\1[1:
Tables:
Descriotion:
Contributions to Clav ~~ineralo~"JY and P_!'~trol_~_y-L_c_oo~
TnTet 11as in. Tr i rl ehorn, 0. J . ; f)GGS A I aska Open F i I e
Renort I 07 (Au'1ust I 076 reI AnSA datn), ( 18 n i I I us.).
Studies for this report were or'1inal ly conducted at the
Tulsi'l Research Li1bOri'ltory (now Atlantic: Richfield CnmPi'lnv>
and issued as companv reports in lgf>f>.
Wi I low, Talkeetna and 11elu~n sub-bosins (oortions thAreof).
Interest Level 2.
I) f1ap showin~ clav mineral distribution in recent sediment
samples. (2"=50 miles, aooroximate; this is a 'leneral ized
man of the entire Cnok Inlet Rasin.)
I) Samples I isted for reqinnal orow~nance study.
2) Samoles collected for detailed studv of lower Susitna
area. Location, description and oercentaqe of clav
minerals (montmorillonite, chlorite and il I ite) are
shown for 3A samoles.
3) Miscellaneous samoles. Location, descriotion
and oercenta~e of clav minerals are shown for 14 samole
sites. Many of the sample sites are in the Little
Susitna River or Reluqa River areas.
The reoort includes two studies on clav mineraloqy
and petroloqy of sediments from the Cook Inlet basin:
I) modern sediments, and 2) Tertiarv sediment rocks in
the area.
The first section includes: introduction, methods of
investiqation, results, miscellaneous samples, relation-
shiP to Tertiary sedimentary rocks, and conclusinns.
Part 2, Clay mineraloqv and oetroloqv of Tertiary mudrocks
includes: introduction, Kachemak Ray, Beluqa and Chuitna
Rivers, Swanson River field cores. Windinq Creek Sections,
final summary and conclusions.
194
-~
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
Soi I Development In Recent Loess in the t·4atanus_ka
Val~· Rieger, s. and Jave, R.L.; reprinted from
Soil Science Society of America Proceedlnqs,
(~1ay-J une 1961 >, Vo I . 25, No. 3 (Pqs. 243-248 >.
The easterly portion of State priority area I, ana the
lower Matanuska Val ley.
Interest Level 2.
I) Mean monthly temperature and precipitation at three
stations in the Matanuska Val ley: Palmer, Matanuska
Experimental Station and Wasil Ia.
2) Particle size distribution of paired profiles of
three so i I s of the t4atanuska Va I ley.
3) Chemical characteristics of paired profiles of the
Matanuska Val ley.
In this paper, three principal soils of the area are
described, results of physical and chemical analyses
are presented, and probable trends in horizon (hori-
zental layer> differentiation are explained.
Descriptions of Matanuska Val ley area include physiography
climate, and important factors in the formation of sol Is.
Origin, location and thickness of the loess is given.
Profile descriptions of three soils--the Bodenberg, Knik
and Homestead series --are Included. Results In particle
size and chemical properties are analyzed, pronounced
differences in morphology are outlined, and color variations
are discussed.
195
Title:
1\rea:
Interest:
Description:
---------- -~~~--~~-
CrJLorthods of the Cook Inlet -Susitna Lowland.
Reioer, S. and DeMent, J.A.: reprinted from Sol I Science
Society of America Proceedinqs, Vol. 29, ~~o. 4 (Auqust 1965).
(Pgs. 44R-453).
AI I lowlands of the Susitna River Basin.
Interest Level 3.
This paper describes the study of the physical and chemical
properties of four Cryothods (zone soi Is that develop in
moist climate) developed in silty materials in Cook Inlet-
Susitna lowland. Intensity of development of soils was
found to be directly related to precipitation rates.
Representative Cryorthods from various parts of the lowland
are described, and relationships between the characteristics
of these soils and features of their environment are
noted.
196
-----------------------------------------------~----
-"J
IV. MAPS: SOILS
-------~--------------~-~-----------~--------~---------------------------
)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
nap:
Description:
:)
Soi I Survey Area t1ap. LJS[)A, Soi I Conservation Service,
(J u I y 1975).
Statewide.
Interest Level 3.
Sol I Survey Area Map (I :5,000,000 scale)
Statewide two-color shaded map that indicates; !)detailed
soi I survey areas and 2) reconnaissance sol I survey areas.
An accompanyinq I ist (October 1976) qives the name of
areas where soil survey exists, and acreaqes mapped.
Total acreaqes in each type of soi I survey are qiven.
AI I of Alaska is covered hv exploratory soil study.
197
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------
V. ONGOING PROJECTS: SOILS
---------------------------------------------------
) Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
_)
Dena! i Area Soil Survey.
Sam Rei (]er: USDA So i I Conservation Service;
824 South Chuqach; Palmer, Alaska; 745-4271.
Ken Rrakken; \~atershed Proqram Manaqer;
Bureau of Land Management; 277-1561.
Upper Susitna Sub-hasin.
The Soil Conservation Service is conductinq soi I
investigations In the Oenal i Highway (Alaska Hiqhway 8)
area as part of a cooperative agreement with the Bureau
of Land Manaqement.
The primary purpose of the soi I study is to orovide infor-
mation on area soil properties to assist in the mana(]ement
of. off-road vehicle use in this remote area. The soi I
studies wil I help in assessing suitabi I itv of relocatinq
off-road trai Is or roads to other routes of less impact,
and in assessing the problems found in existing locations
(i.e. permafrost, ground instahi I ity, etc.). Soi I I imitations
are hased on features of undisturbed soil.
The soil study may serve the secondary purpose of assisting
the BU1 in testing the correlation between LANDSAT imagery
and soil patterns, as part of an onqoinq remote sensing
RU1 project in the same. area.
The SCS soi I surveys include the following:
a) The Butte Lake Trai I, 4,500 acres; b) Butte Creek Tral I,
5,000 acres; c) Hatchet Lake area, I ,500 acres; d) a larqe
area from the Dena I i Highway north to Seven ~-1 i I e Lake
including Land f1ark Gap Lake, 40,000 acres: e) Phalarooe
Lake area, I ,000 acres; f) Maclaren Summit area, I ,000 acres;
and g) ~-1aclaren River site, 640 acres. Geomorohic
features in several areas along the Dena! i are also
be i n g mapped .
The BLM is providinq funding and transoortation (via hel !cooter),
and SCS is providinq the manoower for the cooperat[ve
project.
Preliminary maps are near completion, and no text has yet
been prepared.
The project began in June 1977 and is scheduled for comple-
tion in Apri I or May 1978.
198
Project:
C"..ont ilCt:
Area:
Descrintion:
Status:
Duration:
Skwentna Soi I Survey.
Sam ReI qer; USOA So i I Conservi'lt ion;
824 South Chuqach; Palmer, Alaska; 745-4271.
State Priority Area 4b.
The Soi I r..onservation Service (SCS> is conductin(] a remote.
area soi I study in the Skwentna area.
The soi I oatterns of I 1,418 acres in the Skwentna re~ion
are beinq maoped.
Acreage measurements are necessary to comrlete the
Skwentna survey.
Additional soil surveys west of the Susitna River are
tentatively olanned for next field season (summer 1978).
Skwentna Soil Survev is scheduled for publication in
October 1977.
199
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description·
Status:
Duration:
Willow Area Detailed Soil Survey.
Sam Reiqer; USDA Soi I Conservation Service;
824 South Chu~ach; Palmer, Alaska; 745-4271.
State Priority Area I.
The 11/illow Area Soil Survey will provide evaluations of
soil conditions to aid in selectinq locations for
hiqhways, buildinqs, recreation sites. airports.
Basic enqineerinq properties of soi Is wi I I be qiven.
The Soil Conservation Service (SCS) wi I I attempt to comrlete
a preliminary survey from the north boundary of the capital
site to the south side of Kaskwitna bv tal I 1977.
Wi I low Survey wil I be published early in 1978. Northern
extension of this survey would beqin late summer 1977·
there is no estimate on when maopinq for this area would be
camp I ete.
Field season 1977, throuqh 1978.
200
vegetation
Section V
CONTENTS: VEGETATION
I • I NTRODUCT I ON & SU~1f',1ARY 202
I I • INDEX 203
Ill • PUBLISHED INFORMATION 204
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS 211
201
I • I NTRODUCT I ON & SU~~MARY: V EGET AT I ON
)
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: VEGETATION
Agricultural or forest-related reports comprise most of the Vegetation
Section. The Susitna Val ley's agricultural potential is based on
smal I scale maps with generalized, regional data. Forest lands
west of the Susitna River are not thoroughly inventoried.
Other, more technical or more site specific vegetation information
may be avai I able and several ongoing projects related to habitat'
wi I I produce additional information on vegetation types.
202
II. INDEX: VEGETATION
I I. INDEX: VEGETATION
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Alaska's Argicultural Potential.
2. Forest Resources of the Susitna Val ley, Alaska.
3. Estimated AI lowable Cut for Alaska's Timber Resource on State Lands.
4. Lumber Grade Yields from Paper Birch and Balsam Poplar Logs in
The Susitna Val ley.
5. Marketing Hardwoods from Alaska's Susitna Val ley.
6. A Vegetative Guide for Alaska.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Dena I i Planning Unite Remote Sensing Project.
2. Vegetation Mapping -Back Country Recreation Use.
3. Timber Type Maps.
4. Wi I low Experimental Forest.
5. Survey Regarding Preservation of Agricultural Values.
203
Ill. PUBLISHED INFORMATION: VEGETATION
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Haps:
Tables:
Description:
·,)
Alaska's Agricultural Potential. Alaska Rural Development
Council (March 1974). (151 p. illus.).
Statewide.
Interest Leve I I .
I) Soils with agricultural potential (1:6,000,000).
2) Mean annual precioitation -inches (no scale).
3) Mean annual snowfal I -inches (no scale).
4) Zonation of permafrost and location of present qlaciers
(I em= 150 m i I es).
5) Mean annual runoff (lcm=l50 miles)
6) Mean annual low monthly runoff (lcm=l50 miles).
7) Representative pie diagrams showinq chemical quality
of surface waters; and showinq quality of ground water.
( I "=200 m i I es) .
8) Genera I i zed ava i I ab i I i ty of ground water (I ''=200 m i I es).
9) Veqetation types (multi-color map), (1:5,000,000; 1''=80 miles).
10) Grazing lands of Alaska (multi-color map), (I :6,000,000;
1"=100 miles, approximately).
AI I maps are statewide maps.
Numerous tables present climatic data affecting crops at
selected locations, and present or projected economic
potential of Alaskan agriculture.
The report is organized according to the following four
sections:
Section I The progression and regression of Alaskan
agriculture from the Russian era to the present is
reviewed. Agricultural efforts throughout the circum-
polar area (between 55 and 70 degrees north latitude) are
discussed.
204
Desert nt Inn:
(cnnt)
Section 2: Sol I with aqrlcultural ootontl~l throuqhnut
tho State Is classified and pinpointed on a map accordln~
to whether It Is uoland or lowl~nd soli. Tha oercentaqe
of the area shown which Is tl I !able Is qlven. Cl lmatlc
data til !able areas Is detailed. ~rowln~ da~rae days, ~rowln~
season lenqth and chances of summer frost are summarlzAd
In tables and qraphs.
Ava! lahl I ltv, qual ltv, distribution, seasonal tty and
quantity of runoff water and qround water Is provided
for areas with aqrlcultural sol Is.
Section 3: The present state of Alaskan a~rlculture, the
tyoes of crops and I lvestock presently belnq qrown, and
research In proqress are charted. t~ethods of carIbou and
reindeer controi and harvest ara discussed. Forest production
and projections for future uti llzatlon are tabulated.
Potentials for animal production, lncludln~ control led
environment houslnq, Is discussed.
Section 4: Factors outside Alaska, and Internal marketlnq
systems are described and conclusions are drawn about
future agricultural development.
205
_J
Title:
Aren:
Interest:
~-1aps:
Tables:
Description:
Forest Resources of the Susitna Val ley, Alaska.
Heqq, K. ~1. ; USDA, Forest Service, Resource Ru I I et in
PNW-32 (1970), (42 p. illus).
A II of Sus i tna Basin forested area.
Interest Level 2.
I) Generalized soi I mao of the inventory area (no scale).
2) Forest type map of Susitna Valley (no scale).
28 Tables present numerical values for volume of timber
by types, gross annual growth and other factors.
The report summarizes data from the first intensive inventory
of the forests in the Susitna Val ley conducted durinq 1964-
1965. (The inventory from the Susitna forest plots is stored
on computer at the Forest Science Laboratory in Juneau. Some
olots date to 1962-1963.)
In the description of the forests, lands are classified as
noncommercial, subcommercial or commercial. The uses of
the forest products are also described. Commercial forest
lands are studied in detai I for ownership patterns,
stand conditions, forest types, quality, growth, volume
loss by defect, mortality, and future allowable cut.
The reoort apoendix includes discussions of the forest survey
methods, sampling error, tree species, terminology, expanded
description of the sol Is, and various tables.
206
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Table:
Descri nt ion:
Estimated AI towable Cut for Alaska's Timber Re~ou~~-o-~
State Lands. lJSOA Forest Service Resource Paner PrM ·51,
Tio-p-.-mus. > 1 %7.
AI I State priority areas, and Talkeetna suh-hasin.
Interest Level 2.
Allowable Annual Cut
This table enumerates by species, the net voluMe allowable
annual cut in cubic feet and board feet.
The paper is a statewide analvsis of the estiMated allowable
cut for the Tanana Val lev, Matanuska-Susitna Val ley,
Kenai Peninsula, Kodiak, Yakatat, and Haines-Skaqway areas.
The Matanuska-Susitna Valley description includes commercial
forest acreaqe by species.
The paper is an update of the 1970 publication "Forest
Resources of the Susitna Valley".
207
Title: Lumber grade yields from Paper Birch and Ralsam Poplar
Logs in the Susitna Val ley. USOA Forest Service Resource
Paper PNW-51, (30 p. illus.), (1967).
Area: Susitna Val ley forested area.
Interest Interest Level 3.
Description: Volumes of commercially valuable paoer birch and balsam
are tabulated accordinq to lumber grades. The report
tabulations are more useful in estimatinq quality,
than overal I quantity of Susitna Val ley forests.
Avai labi I ity: Forestry Library, Alaska Division of Lands.
208
Title:
/\reo:
I ntPrcst:
Tables:
Descriotion
Horketing Hardwoorls from 1\laska!s Susitna Vall~.
Massie, Michael, R.D.: University of Alaska, SFG report
<J, (162 p.), (November 1966).
Susitna Val ley forested areas.
Interest Level 3.
I) Known mature paper birch stands in the Susitna Val ley,
location, accessibility, acreaqe and volumes.
2) Estimated annual allowable cuts, accessible stands,
Susitna Valley, 1966.
3) Sale and cut, location of paoer birch tiMber in the
Susitna Val ley to January I, 1966.
4) EstiMated cui I deductions for selected stands of mature
oaoer birch in the Susitna Val ley.
The report includes the fol lowinq sections: introduction,
summary and conclusions, forest resources, harvestin1 hardwood
timber, primarv manufacturinq, product specifications and
shiopinq alternatives, hardwood markets, and estimated
returns for lumber manufacture.
The report describes the various markets now us i nq hardwood
forest resources similar to Susitna Val lev hardwoods,
and suggests potential industry development compatible
with resources and markets. The reoort cautions that
estimates are conservative unti I more accurate figures
become available.
The document is more valuable as a hardwood industry
development and marketing tool, than as a detailed forest
inventory.
209
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
-------------
A Veqetative Guide for Alaska. Soi I Conservation Service
in cooperation with llnlversity of Alaska lnstitutA of
Agricultural SciencAs, Cooperative Extension Service;
(September 1972).
Statewide: recommendations and data for reqions including
Cook lnlet-Susitna Area.
Interest Level 3.
The report contains the fol lowinq sections: I) introduction,
2) culture and management for establ ishinq grasses and lequmes;
3) soil and site groups; 4) seedinq recommendations for qeo-
qraphic areas; 5) woody and herbaceous qroundcoverinqs; and
6) appendices.
Relevant to the Susitna River Basin is the section on seedinq
recommendations. The Cook lnlet-Susitna Area is one of six
geographic areas described. Tables for the Susitna area
indicate soils and sites with severe I imitations due to
excess moisture. After determining the basic soil group,
seeding and fertilizer recommendations can be developed
from the report information.
210
-~--------- -------~-----
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS: VEGETATION
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
)
Dena I i Planning Unit Remote Sensing Project.
Lou Waller, Project Manager
Anchorage District Office
Bureau of Land Management
4700 East 72nd Avenue
Anchorage, Alaska 99507.
Dr. John Miller
Geophysical Institute
University of Alaska, Fairbanks.
Upper Susitna sub-basin.
This is a joint remote sensing (LANDSAT) project designed
to provide inventory of wildland vegetation and geologic
features of the Denali area. The Denali Planning Unit
was chosen as one of three test sites on land managed
by BLM (nationwide), because of its road access, its
many many resources and accompanying management problems.
Geologic features, mineral deposits, wildlife, a variety
of soils from gravel to permafrost, archaeologic sites,
and recreation opportunities such as fishing, hiking
and canoeing are being considered.
The remote sensing project began with development of
a project pI an by BLM and Nati ona I .Aeronautic and
Space Administration (NASA) personnel. The plan is
titled "Applications Systems Verification and Transfer"
(ASVT). BLM and NASA have since been joined by Earth
Resources Observation Systems (EROS), administered by
USGS, and the main contractor for the project, Electro-
magnetic Systems Laboratories, (Sunnyvale, California).
The University of Alaska Geophysical Institute has sub-
contracted to do verification and correlation of vegetation
and geologic features inventoried during the summer (1977).
The Appl !cations Systems Verification Test has two primary
(national) objectives.
I) To test and demonstrate feasibi llty and cost of LANDSAT
with high and low level photography and ground observations
to inventory wildland vegetation and geologic features.
2) To train BLM personnel in use of LANDSAT technology.
Data gathered during the Dena I i area study and future
projects wil I be maintained in an information center
of the BLM, Anchorage District Office.
211
Descr i nt ion:
(cont)
Duration:
LANDSAT (formerly Earth Resources Technolony S?ltell ite,
F::RTS) dit1ital imanes taken Aut:Just 30, 1974, Auqust I, 1976
Sentemher 6, 1976 and July 10, 1975 ?lre bein~ uti I lzerl.
Aerial Photoqraphy at I :1,200 scale; Rn 57 ohotos at 1:120,000
scale; and I :30,000 scale photoqraphy wil I be used to study
special interest areas, (such as the Tannle Lakes). Strip
aerial photoC1raphy at a scale of I :32,000 wi I I also be
evoluoted.
The BU,1 and NASA staffs met to exr I ore the remote sens i nq
oroj ect in tv1ay 1975.
By November 1976, the ASVT project olan had been develoned and
accepted by participatinq agencies.
By June 30, 1977, "Backqround InforMation on Remote Sensinn
and Its Use in the BLM Denali Planninq Unit, Alaska",
Anchoraqe District Office, RU1 was published. (10 p. illus.).
0 ubl ished as backnround document for the remote sensinq
oroject, this report includes a mao of the Denali Study
area and an organizational chart. Information for the
bibi loqraphy annotation is extracted from this report.
The remote sensinq project is desiqned as a three-year
proqram.
212
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Oeser i pti on:
Status:
Duration:
J
Veqetatlon Mapping -Back Country Recreation Use.
Dr. Fred Dean; Alaska Cooperative Park Study Unit;
University of Alaska; Fairbanks. Alaska; 479-7672.
Ta I keetna Sub-basin; Rroadpass, Windy Creek and Foqqy
Pass areas; also north of the Alaska Ranqe.
The project objective is to develop veqetative maps in
accordance with the provisional Alaska Veqetation
Classification scheme (in progress), uti I izinq satellite,
hiqh level and low level aerial photography, and
extensive field checkinq.
Maps at I :250,000 and I :63,360 scale wil I be prepared.
Vegetation samples were scheduled to be taken during
the summer 1977 to assist In checkinrJ aerial photorJraphs.
Not known.
213
Proj f'C:t:
Cont;'lct:
Aren:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Timber Typo Mnns.
Forestry Section, Division of Lnnd nnrl lt/ntor tv1an<3rternont,
Department of N1'3tura I f~esourcns.
State priority areas I, 3a and 4a.
Completed timber type m1'3ps (at a scale of 30 chnins to an
inch) exist for the fol lowinq <rteneral) arons:
I) Tradinrt Bay, 12 townships, or aonroximatelv ~75,000
acres. Maps indicate forest types and basic land contours.
Note: loqqinq operations have been in ful I operation in
this area since approximatelv 1976.
2) Goose Ray Timber type maos indicate this information:
Birch, white spruce aspen, black spruce, shrubs, swamo,
aqricultural land, lakes, trails and l<3nd ownership.
3) Certain Cottonwood types for the Susitna Val lev arc
camp lete.
(As detailed above). AI I mans are on file in the Forestry
Section.
Onqoing project.
214
_')
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
'_)
Willow Experimental Forest.
Alaska Division of Lands
Forestry Section or Institute of Northern Forestry,
U.S. Forest Service
323 East 4th Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska 279-5577.
State Priority area I; Little Susitna River Val ley.
Plots have been established in order to study birch and
white spruce regeneration and spacing. The birch stand
is thinned to various specified spacings and cleared
areas are planted with white spruce. Plantings and the
existing crop wi I I be monitored over the next ten
years and compared with established, collected data.
Ongoing project.
At least through 1986, possibly longer.
215
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Survey RcgJrding rreservation of Agricultural Values.
Bi I I Mattice, Student
University of Alaska, Anchorage
Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
Matanuska Val ley.
A pub I ic opinion survey on land use and preservation of
agricultural values in the Matanuska Val ley is being
conducted as part of a University class requiremen-t-.
Ques-t-ionnaires wi I I be mailed to approximately 300
Val ley residents. The results of the survey wi I I be
made avai fable to the Mat-Su Borough Planning Department
and to other interested parties.
A report is expected to be pub( ished based on the
results of the survey.
Summer-Fall 1977.
216
---------------------~---------~ _,---~---·--------. -
fish &
wildlife
Section VI
~")
CONTENTS: FISH & WI LDL IFF.: Page
I • INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY 218
" -
II. I t~DEX 219
II I • CROSS INDEX 220
IV. PUOL I SHED I NFOmlJAT ION 221
v. ON(;OING PROJECTS 237 -
c
()
217
'-
I . INTRODUCTION & SUt1t~ARY: FISH & WILDLIFE
i _)
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: FISH & WILDLIFE.
The reports annotated in this section provide information of varying
detail, on large game, anadromous and resident freshwater fish. Little
or no published information was found on smal I game, furbearers, waterfowl,
and marine animals, which suggests a need for further inventory concerning
smal I game and waterfowl.
A large part of the readily available fish and wildlife reports concentrate
on the area of the Upper Susitna River. This long I ine of past and
ongoing studies is being conducted because of potential development of
the Devil 's Canyon/Watana Dam project, and the project's impact on fish
and wild! ife of the region. A summary of reports published from 1952
1960 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the Upper Susitna is
included.
Other studies provide: I) description of current and projected management
techniques and goals for each species by population or game management
unit; 2) estimates of population by species; 3) historical information
on population, harvests, etc.; 4) economic values associated with uses;
5) distribution maps; 6) identification of important critical habitat
areas (I imited) migration routes and spawning area.
SOURCES-The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Alaska Department
of Fish and Game were th~ primary sources of information. Further
valuable information is avai !able from individual area game and fisheries
biologists with Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Annual reports by
the Sport Fish Division a.re referenced, but a I I such reports are not
annotated. The Commerical Fish Division also has useful information,
218
I I. INDEX: FISH & WILDLIFE
(_]
J I I. INDEX: FISH & WILDLIFE
I. Background: Fish and Wlldl lfe Studies Related to Susitna River Hydropower
Project.
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. A Detailed Report on Fish and WI ldllfe Resources Affected by
Vee Pro.Ject, Susltna River.
2. A Detal led Report on Fish and Wlldl lfe Resources affected by the
Dev i I Canyon Pro.! ect.
3. Fish and Wildlife Studies Related to the Corps of Engineers Devil
Canyon, Watana Reservoir HydroelectriC ProJect <Three Reports).
4. Pre-Authorization Assessment of the Proposed Susitna River Hydroelectric
Pr9J~gt§; Pre! iminary Investigations of Weter Quflllty and Aguatir
Species and Composition,
5. An Assessment Study of the Anadromous Fish Populations in the Upper
Susitna River Watershed between Devil Canyon and the Chul itan River.
6. Spring 1974 Moose Parturition Counts of the Proposed Devi I Canyon Dam Area.
7. Southcentral Railbelt Area, Upper Susitna River Basin Hydroelectric
Project, Two Dam Plan.
8. Annual Performance Report for Inventory and Cataloging.
9. Annual Performance Report for Inventory and Cataloging and Population
Sampling of the Sport Fish and Sport Fish Waters in Upper Cook Inlet.
10. Summary; Annual Performance/Progress Reports, ADF&G.
I 1. Alaska Wildlife Management Plans-Southcentrai-Aiaska.
12. Big Lake Analysis.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Anadromous Fish Population Studies, Mat-Su Val ley.
2. Coastal Fish and Wildlife Resource Profile of Southcentral Alaska.
219
"J
-------------------_L'------'------
I I I. CROSS INDEX: FISH & WILDLIFE
--------------------------------------
I I I . CROSS INDEX-FISH & WILDLIFE
See HYDROLOGY Section:
A Hydrologic Reconnaissance of the Susitna River Below Devi I 1 s
Canyon. 154
220
IV. PUBLtSHEn INFOffi1ATION: FISH & WILDLIFE
I~
I'
r
1-
/)
BACKGROUNn: FISH ANn WILDLIFE STUDIES RELATED TO SIJSITN/\ RIVER HYOROPOWER
PRnJECT
Beqinninq in the 1950's, the U.S. Fish and Wi ldl lfe Service has conducted
orel iminary investiqations of the fish and wildlife soecies in
the Susitna basin reqlon and its tributaries. The reconnaissance
studies were in response to the potentia I for hvdronower deve I opmen-t in the
upper basin. Additional studies have been conducted by the Alaska Department
of Fish and Game to collect baseline aquatic, bioloqical and water
quality/quantity data in the Devi I 's Canyon/Watana oroject area.
The following paragraphs summarize the preliminary U.S. Fish and Wildlife
ServIce reoorts of the Upper Sus itna Aas in.
SU~-1MARY OF REPORTS ANn STUDIES
I. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, A Preliminary Statement of Fish and
Wildlife Resources of the Susitna Basin in Relation to \'later Develooment
Projects; 1952.
2. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, A Proqress Report on the Wildlife
Resources of the Susitna Basin; 1954.
This report is a genesis for future evaluation, and includes average
harvest and monetary value of species by calculating the qame harvest
of the Susitna Basin as a percentage of the total Alaska game harvest.
3. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service A Proqress Report on the Fishery
Resources of the Susitna River Basin; 1954.
In 1956, the Bureau of Reclamation resumed detailed feasibility
studies of the Devi I Canyon, Denali and Vee Canyon dam sites. In
order to keep pace with their investigations, the Fish and Wildlife
Service began detailed studies of project affects. The result--
three more proqress reports, 1956, '57 and '58 field investigations.
4. U.S. Fish and \'li ldl ife Service, Progress Report, 1956 Field lnvestiqatio!J2_
Devi I Canyon Damsite, Susitna River Basin; 1957.
This report includes stream surveys of tributaries downstream from
Devi I Canyon, and of Jay Creek located upstream. Information is very
general for Gold Creek, Indian River, Jack Long Creek, Portage Creek
and Devil Canyon. The objective of this study was to determine the
extent anadromous species uti I ize the watershed and the magnitude and
distribution of resident fish populations. Work during the 1956
field season was devoted to test nettinq.
221
5. U.S. Fish and W i I rll i fe Service, pro9ress Report, 1957 Fie I d Invest i nat_i_C2_n_2_ -l
Devi I Canyon Damsite anrl Reservo~ Area, Susitna River Rasin; Apri I 1959.
This renort includes investiqation of the streams upstream of
the proposed Devil Canyon damsite, from Deadman Creek to Jay
Creek. Gi I I nets were set to survey the species and location
of the anadromous and resident fish populations.
6. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1958 Field Investigations, Denali
and Vee Canyon namsites and Reservoir Are~Susitna River Rasin:
June 1959.
The report includes information on trapping pressure, game harvest,
stream surveys, fish collections on the lower sections of most streams,
and aerial inspections to count qame.
In 1960 and 1965 the Fish and Wildlife Service preoared detailed reports
under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
(48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.). These reports are
annotated in detail in the Wildlife Section of this Ribl io~raphy. They
are as follows:
7. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, A Detailed Report on Fish and Wildlife
~e_sources Affected by the Devil Canyon °roject; t-1ay 1960
8. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, A Detailed Report on Fish and Wildlife
Resources Affected by the Vee Project; February 1965.
222
,)
Title:
•)
Area:
Interest:
~~ap:
Descriotion:
A Deta i I ed Report on Fl sh nnd '""i I d I i fe Resources _!\ffo_c_tA1_
~Vee Project, Susitna r{ivAr. IJ.S. Fish and Wi ldl ifA
Service, (February 1965), (lop.).
Upper Susitna Sub-basin.
Interest level 3.
Vee Canyon Dam and reserve i r, (I"= I 0 m i I es).
The reoort describes fish and qaMe soecies oresent and
effects of construction on wild! ife in the project area.
The reoort includes reported occurrences of black bears,
sma II qame and the Ne I china caribou herd.
223
------~--~----------------------------- --------------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Descriotion:
A Oetai led Report on Fish and Wildt i fe Hesources affected
.Qy_ the [)evil Canyon Pro,ject. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
(t-1ay 1960), (26 p.).
Upper Susitna Basin.
Interest level 3.
Biq qame, smal I qame, fur bearers, waterfowl, and both
resident and anadromous fish were found to be affected
by construction of the project. Loss of habitat and
expected mi~ration are included in this report.
224 __ )
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Oeser i pti on
Fish and Wildlife Studies Related to the Corps of Enginee~~
Devi I Canyon, Watana Reserve i r Hydroe I ectr i c Proj~c_t
(Three Reports). Alaska Derartment of Fish and Game,
under a contract aqreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service. (February 1976).
Upper Susitna Sub-basin.
Interest I eve I I
Biological studies were conducted and resulted in three
separate report segments. These are described separately
below.
Anadromous Fish Population of the Upper Susitna River
\~atershed; Friese, N.V. (November 1975), (108 p.).
The study involved continued monitoring of spawning
distribution, relative abundance and representative
age-length-sex composition by species and surveys of
juvenile rearing areas. Methods of investigation and
results are detailed. Cl imatoloqical observations, water
temperature, and water fluctuation at the fishwheel campsite
are included.
Diagrammatic sketchs of each slough and certain clear water
stream flows In the Susitna, Talkeetna and Chulitna Rivers
area are included. The drawlnqs are not to scale and
define the relative size, substrate composition, and
spawning areas of the sloughs. Escapement survey
results are included in tables.
Prel lminary Investigations of Water Oual ity and Aquatic Species
Composition, Riis, J.C.
The purpose of the investigation was to obtain baseline data
on indigenous fish populations, aquatic habitat, and
water quality to define biological areas of concern within
the hydropower project area.
Limnological investigations were taken at the Parks Highway
Bridge downstream on the Susitna River and at alI major
east side tributaries. Definition of flows, i.e. mini~um
seasonal flows, are necessary to insure access in and out
of slough by fish.
Aerial photographs (July 1975) indicate location of sample
sites and the type of fish found at each site.
225
Oescrintion:
Ccont)
A Limited Wildlife Study~ ~kKiroy, C. and Sparker, T.
This report supplements a 1960 Fish and Wildlife Service.
It reoorts on biq qame distributions observed durinq the
sprinq and winter, reevaluates effects on wildlife hy
the proposed project, and suoqests miti~atinq actions
and future studies. Caribou distribution and trails
crossing the Susitna River were observed and noted.
Tab I es indicate qame harvest counts. r·1aps i nd i catA the
distribution of moose, sheep, caribou, and indicate
levels of qame utilization.
226
-----·------··------------~ ~--~ --------------
Title:
Area:
Interest:
i-1aps:
Tables:
Description:
)
Pre-Authorization Assessment of the Proposed Susitna River
HydroelectrIc Projects: Pre I im i nary I nvesti 1ati ons of_
Water Quality and Aquatic Species Composition. Riis, J.C.;
Alaska Department of Fish and Game, (!1ay 1977) (91 p.).
Uoper Susltna Basin.
Interest Leve I I .
Two maps depict the Devil 1 s Canyon Project, one in relation
to the watershed and northern Cook Inlet and the other
in relation to the Upper Susitna River.
56 tables or other I I lustrations illustrate dlscharqe at
eight locations, water temperature at four locations,
suspended sol ids, turbidity, and escaoement surveys at
various locations.
Biological, water quality and water quantity investigations
were conducted from July I, 1976 through September 30, 1976
to obtain data on indigenous fish populations and the existinq
aquatic habitat. The data wil I add to onqoinq environmental
studies to assess the potential impacts of the proposed
Watana/Devi 11 s Canyon hydroelectric project.
The report oroanization discusses methodology used for
sampling, and findings. Flow regimens, temperature,
suspended sol ids, turbidity, water chemistry, benthic
invetebrates, and fisheries areal I explained in detai 1.
227
Title:
Arec~:
Interest:
r-1aps:
Tahles:
Oeser i ot ion:
An Assessment Studv of the AnadroMous F i sh~t!_l_ at i or12.
J..n_ the Upper Susitna River \•Jatershed betweon Devi I Cany.2_tl
and the Chulitna River. rlarrett, B.f1.; Alaska DepartMent
of Fish and Game, Division of \.ommercial Fisheries,
(November 1974) (56 p. illus.).
Talkeetna sub-basin and Upper Susitna sub-basin.
Interest Leve I I.
I) t1ap of the Devil 1 s Canyon Study area on the Upper
Susitna River; also indicatos location of slouqhs
inventoried as spawning areas. ( 1!"=5 miles).
2) Figure 1-14: Sketch maps of 21 sloughs, includes
coMposition of bottom material and riffles. AI I
spawning areas are located.
Tables show escapement data, fish taqqinq results, and
climatological observations.
An inventory proqram was initiated in 1974 to determine
spawning distribution, relative abundance, migrational
timing, age-length-sex composition by species, and juvenile
nursery areas on anadromous fish habitat in the Upoer Susitna
River, between the proposed Devil 's Canyon hydropower site
and the Chulitna River. This report is a summary of the
techniques employed and the results obtained durinq the
1974 field season (July I -September 27).
228
Title:
Are~:
Interest:
~-1ap:
Tables:
Description:
_)
~inq 1974 tv1oose Parturition r.ounts of the Proposed
Oevi I Canyon Dam Area. Calkins, n.; Alaska Oepartment
of Fish and Game ( 1974), (10 p. i I Ius.).
Upper Susitna Sub-basin.
Interest Level 2.
Susitna River showinq areas surveyed and approximate locations
of moose siqhted, June 1974 (no scale).
I) Results of the Moose Survey from Oevil Canyon Dam site
to Susitna Glacier.
2) A comparison of moose counts from sprinq 1974 with fal I
1973 composition counts by location.
The purpose of this survey was to delineate moose
distribution with emphasis on calvinq area locations
within the impoundment area. This report is a summary
of techniques employed and results obtained.
229
Title:
Area:
Interest:
nescription:
-----------------
Southcentral Rni lhelt Area, Upper Susitna Rivnr Ri'lsin
Hydroelectric Project, Two nam Pll'ln_. IJ.S. Fish and Wi ldl ifn
Service (October lq75), (IR p ).
Upper Susitna Suh-hasin.
Interest Level 3.
The report is prepared by U.S. Fish and Wi lrll ife Service
for the Corps of En~ineers, and is a cursory summary of fisheri~s
and wildlife within the hydroelectric project area. nata
used are compendiums of field investi~ations by the Alaska
Department of Fish and Game and National ~~arine Fisheries
Service.
230
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
)
Annual Performance Report _for Inventory and Catalor,lng_.
Alaska Department of Fish and r,ame, Olvlsion of Sport
Fish, (Vol. 16; July I, 1974 throuf'Jh June 30, 1975).
Project areas as outlined below; alI are within the Susitna
River Basin.
Interest Level 1.
Research projects undertaken durinq the fiscal year are
explained in this annual Federal Aid in Fish Restoration
report.
(Analysis of alI previous Inventory and Cataloqinq reoorts is
not included Tn-this 8ihl ioqraphy.)
Research project reports are organized to include abstract,
recommendations, project objectives, techniques, findinqs,
and I iterature cited.
Each pertinent research project of the FY 1 75 report is
summarized below:
_Inventory, Cataloging and Population Sampling of the Sport
Fish and Soort Fish Waters in Upper Cook Inlet, by David
Watsjold, Fishery Bloloqist. (Project F-9-7)
Sixteen lakes were inventoried in the Matanuska-Susitna
Valleys for physical and chemical characteristics. Sampled
waters, ranging from 9 to 300 acres in size, were of the
bicarbonate type and varied from very soft to hard. Water
analyses gave mean values for Ca, Mq, K and Na; other
determinations included conductance, alkalinity, and
hardness. (Water samples wereprocessed bv the U.S.
Geological Survey, Salt Lake City, Utah.)
Growth and survival, as defined by qil I net sampling, were
determined for stocked qame fish in 22 lakes.
t'·1onitoring of monthly features in II lakes began in 1973
and was continued on nine lakes throughout the summer of
1974. (Shown in Table.)
Morphometric features -subsurface acres, deoth, elevation,
location -of 16 lakes are presented in tabular form.
Inventory and Cataloging of Sport Fish Waters of the Copper
River, Prince Wi I I lam Sound, and the Upper Susitna River
Drainages, by Fred Will lams, Fishery Bioloqist.
(Only Upper Susitna study Is summarized herein.)
231
Oescription:
<cant)
Rasin data such as strP-am flow transparency, qrarlients,
fish 1 ife, and bottom types were qathernd on as many of
the tributaries of the Upper Susitna as possible. (ThP.
data have beAn submitted to the appronriatP. aqP-ncies in
a separate report.)
Aerial surveys indicated at least 117 tributary streams could
be affected by the four-dam hydroelectric propost:JI. · Rased
on aerial and ground observations the streams were qiven
one of the following classifications:
I Stream -those that appear to have year-round flow, clear
water color, cover, holes, clean riffle areas.
I I Streams -water color brown or qray, current fast or
torrential, few pools.
II I Streams-smal I stream~ flow less than 3 c.f.s.,
torrential flow, hiqh silt loads.
Dry -those streams without water at date of survey.
Inventory and Cataloqinq of Sport Fish and Sport Fish Waters
of the Lower Susitna And Central Cook Inlet Drainages, by
Stanley Kubick and Robert Chlupach.
A Study on the Talachulitna River was conducted to provide
population estimates growth information, and age data
for Arctic grayling. Other fish species were noted by
species and number. The study area receives heavy float
fishinq pressure.
Enumeration of chinook salmon escanement was conducted
in 1973 and 1974 in the fol lowinq key, west-side tributaries
to the Susitna:
Deshka River System
Alexander Creek System
Lake Creek System
Talachul itna River
Canyon Creek
Martin Creek
Chuit River
Theodore River
Lewis River
Peters Creek
Nakochna River
The Department of Fish and Game submitted requests, and
subsequently received favorable action, to set aside
water-oriented sites for public access. Requests to the
Mat-Su Borough were for easements on Coal Creek, Coal
Creek Lake and Talachul itna Creek. A request to the
Department of Natural Resources was made for an easement
on the shores of Talachul itna Lake.
232
_)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
tv1ap s:
Description:
Annual Performance Report for Inventory and Cataloging a~1
Population Sampling of the Sport Fis.b_._9_nd Sport Fish \~aters
in Upper Cook Inlet. Watsjold, O.A.; Alaskn Department of
Fish and Game, Sport Fish Division. (Volume 18; July I,
1976 through June 30, 1977); Project F-9-7; (47-93 p.).
Project areas as outlined below, are all within the Susitna
River Basin.
Interest Leve I I •
I) Big Lake watershed showing locations of index areas on
Fish and ~~eadow Creeks.
2) Caswel I Lakes area showing drainage patterns connecttnq
the surveyed lakes, 1976 (1"=1 mile).
Big Lake -This project and the resultant data was gathered
from the Biq Lake watershed to determine I ife history of
sa I mont ds. The de to ere us~fu I in efJorts to i ncreosc
salmonid populations through artifici~l enhancement practices.
In 1976, the Youth Conservation Coros assisted the field
work. Rearing fish species were captured to determine
migrational movements, age and growth data, population
densities, and species compos'ition in various habitat
types. Detailed minnow samplinq results are described
in the report.
Caswell Lakes-A preliminary survey of five lakes was
conducted during the 1976 summer season in the Caswel I
Lake area. The purpose of the study was to determine
the present condition of the salmoid populations and
whether a salmon enhancement program would be beneficial
t.1orphometr I c data for the five I akes are presented in tabu I ar
form. \~ater chemistry data include pH, hardness, alkalinity,
and conductivity.
Qi sso I ved Oxygen Samp I i ng - A tota I of 14 .I akes were checked
during the 1975-76 winter for dissolved oxygen levels.
The lakes were: Seymour, Visnaw, Lalen, Lucille, Canoe,
Memory, Matanuska, Meirs, Little No Luck, Big No Luck,
Johnson, Victor, and Harriet.
Chinook Studies -Escapement surveys on the east side
Susitna River tributaries, and tributaries of the Talkeetna
and Chulitna Rivers are analyzed in detail. 1969-1976
annual escapement counts on Wi I low, Montana, Moose and
Prairie Creeks are tabluated.
Ongoing, detailed testinq is underway on Montana, Rabideux,
WI I low, and Prairie Creeks and the Chulitna River.
233
Summary: .1\nnua I Performance/Proqress Reports, AOF&G
In compl lance with the Federal Aid In Fish Restoration proqram, tha Sport
Fish Division, Department of Fish and Game, compiles annual reports of
oroqress and/or performance. The objectives of these proqrams have been
the same over the years. However, the data collected as a result of field
work may have had different formats as a result of sampl inq techniques and
a nuFY'Iber of other factors. Therefore, the followinq research project
seqments (for 1969 through 1974 only) are I isted, but not annotated.
Wi I Iiams, F.T. 1969. Inventory and Cataloqing of Sport Fish and Sport
Fish \vaters of the Cooper River and Pr 1 nee W i I I i am Sound Ora i na51~--C!.~
the Upper Susitna River. Alaska Oeoartment of Fish and Game. Federal
Aid in Fish Restoration, Annual Report of Proqress, 1%8-1969, Project
F-9-1, Volume 10 (275-289 p.).
1971. Volume 12: Project F-9-3, (117-136 p.).
1972. Volume 13: Project F-9-4, (85-110 p. ).
1973. Volume 14: Project F-9-5, (1-29 o.).
Watsjold, D.A. 1973. Population Studies of Game Fish and Evaluation of
t-1anaged Lakes in the Upoer Cook Inlet Drainage. Alaska Oepartment of
Fish and Game. Federal Aid in Fish Restoration, Annual Report of Proqress
1972-1973, Project F-9-5, Volume 14 (G-Ill-D); (1-17 p.).
Enqel, L.J. 1974. lnventory, Cataloging and Population Sampl inq of the
Sport Fish and Sport Fish lvaters in Upper C',ook In I et A I aska Department
of Fish and Game. Federal Aid in Fish Restoration, Annual Report of
Performance, 1973-1974, Project F-9-6, Volume 15 (G-1-D); (67-91 p.).
Kalb, C.J. 1974. Pooulation Studies of Game Fish and Evaluation of
Hanaged Lakes in the Upper Cook Inlet Orainage. Alaska Department of
Fish and Game, Federal Aid in Fish Restoration, Annual Report of
Performance, 1973-1974, Project F-9-6, Volume 15 (G-1 I 1-D); (23 p.).
Watsjold, D.A. 1974. Anadromous Fish Population Studies Matanuska-
Susitna Val levs. Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Federal Aid in
Fish Restoration Annual Report of Performance, 1973-1974, Project F-9-6,
Volume 15 (G-11-H); (49-57 p.).
234
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
:)
Ava i I a b i I i ty :
&.!_aska Wildlife ~~anagement Plans-Southcentral Alaska.
Alaska Department of Fish and Game, (1976) (291 p. ),
(One of Seven Volumes.)
Southcentral Alaska.
Interest Leve I I.
The purpose of the report is to compile information
on the status, distribution, an/ uses of wildlife
populations. Current and projected land use patterns,
and natural resource potentials are also considered
Part I of the report presents a brief discussion of wild-
1 ife management in Alaska, reviewing the formal structure
of management, the biological bases for wildlife use,
and problems encountered.
Part I I contains the individual species/area management
recommendations. The following Is a I ist of individual
species management plans that include or overlap into the
Susitna River Basin:
-Susitna-Nelchina Black Bear ~~anaqement Plan
-Upper Cook In I et Brown Bear ~~anaqement PI an
-Lower Mananuska-Susitna Val ley Brown Rear Management Plan
-Western Talkeetna Mountains Sheep Management Plan
-Talkeetna River ~4oose Management Plan
-Matanuska Glacier t·1oose Management Plan
-Matanuska Valley tbose ~·1anagement Plan
-Talkeetna Mountains Moose Management Plan
-Skwentna Moose Management Plan
-Palmer Hay Flats Moose Management Plan
-Upper Cook Inlet Goat Management Plan
-Cook Inlet Furbearer Management Plan
Each manaqement plan is organized to include the following
information:
I) Location by Alaska Department of Fish and Game, game
management units, and drainages.
2) Primary manageMent goal.
3) Secondary management goal.
4) Examples of management guidelines.
5) Species (detailed description).
6) Problems.
7) Impacts
Department of Fish and Game.
235
Title:
/\rea:
Interest:
Descrintion:
BiCJ Lake Ana~. Ward, R.A.; Alaska f)epnrtment of Fish
and GaMe, Division of Fisheries, Rehahi I itation rnhanceMent
and f)evelopment (FREf)), (September 30, 1974), (p~s extracted
froM other sources unnumbered). Technical support material
in raw data form.
State Priority area
Interest Level 3.
The report is a compilation of previous unidentified works.
drawn to~ether to orovide history, oast research data,
and site location data for the puroose of locatin~ a
prototype sockeye salmon eq~ incubation rearinq facility
In the Biq Lake Watershed.
The report brin~s together from other (unidentified) reoorts
and sources, the following types of informAtion for the
Riq Lake Watershed:
I) As backqround data, interviews with area homesteaders
durinq a 1962 survey, and letters reqardinq a water stab-
i I ization project proposal are included.
2) Work sheets, sketch maos. tables and other tyoes of
unexplained data are included in a summary titled ''Analytica I,
biological, chemical, and physical deterMinative summary of
the Big Lake System -1936 1974."
3) Portions of Fish Creek smelt investiaations, lake produc-
tivity, stream sampling, nettinq results, and eqq deposition
studies from a "Cook Inlet Inventory Report" (1973) by other
Alaska Department of Fish and Game personnel are included.
4) A orospective site location and rearinq faci I ity is
described.
5) An appendix includes correspondence, project cost
estimates and project status information.
236
V. ONGOING PROJECTS
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Anadromous Fish Population Studies, Mat-Su Valley.
David Watsjold/Larry Enqel;
Fisheries Bioloqists~ Alaska Department of Fish and Game,
Box 26: Palmer; 745-3178.
East tributaries Susitna River, specifically Wi I low Creek,
Little Susitna~ and t1ontana Creek.
This is an onqoinq project to study the I ife history~
includinq evaluation of population trends~ abundance
and densities~ of anadromous fish species. Recommendations
for proper manaqement are made as a result of the studies.
A summary of escapement surveys published as a result
of this work is available (Alaska Department of Fish and
Game, Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Sport Fish Division,
Study G-1: Inventory and cataloqinq, various volumes.)
Specific projects currently underway include the fol lowino:
Wi I low Creek: Cl ippinq of King Salmon to follow movement,
determine abundance, evaluate returns of hatchery chinook
and level of density at various periods of the migration~
beqan in July -August 1977. Laboratory tests are being
conducted to determine disease problems present in Wi I low
Creek King Salmon. Some temperature and flow measurements
are being conducted in the study area.
Area bioloqists have explicit knowledqe of the spawning areas
of Wi I low Creek, Deception Creek and the Little Susitna River.
tvlontana Creek: The habits of King Salmon, including
up and downstream movements are under study. Water
temperature data has also been collected as a part of
this study.
status report in Inventory and Cataloging report 1977 by
Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
Ongoing.
237
Project:
C'..ontact:
Area:
flescriotion:
Status:
Duration:
Coastal Fish and Wildlife Resource Profile of Southcentral
A Iaska.
Greq Konkel; tJ.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 265-4f396.
Southcentral Alaska.
The purpose of tf'lis oroject is to dew~lop a visual presentation
of fish and wildlife resources, with emohasis on the coastal
zone. A qood deal of information for the project wi II he
synthesized from existinq mapped and oubl ished or unnubl ished
information developed hy other aqencies. AI I species for
which data is available wi I I be treated in the study.
Anticipated start-up date is nctober 14, 1977. A pre-
solicitation conference was held July 12, 1977.
October 1977 -February 1979.
238
recreation
& archeology
Section VII
CONTENTS: RECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY
I I. INDEX
I I I. PUBLISHED INFORMATION
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS
239
240
241
242
265
I . PHRODUCT I ON & SU~1~~ARY: RECREAT I ntJ & ARCHAEnL0GY
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: RECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY.
Some of the most developed recreational areas in Alaska are within the
Susitna Basin boundary; the Big Lake area, Nancy Lakes recreational
area, Mt. McKinley Park and Lake Louise are examples. Classified recrea-
tional lands or lands considered for inclusion in the State Park System
include such areas as the Hatcher Pass recreational area, the TaJachul itna
River, and the Little Susitna River. Other high use areas, such as the
Denali Highway, the Burma Road area west of Big Lake, and Alexander
Creek, are not necessarily classified as recreational lands, but because
of their proximity to urban areas, roads, or outstanding natural features
they receive heavy pub I ic use.
Reports have been prepared and annotated on most alI the aforementioned
recreational use areas. Physical setting and natural features of recrea-
tional areas are described and mapped in these reports.
The "Heritage Resource Inventory" series is annotated in this section of
the bibliography. Volumes within this series describe the following:
I) Historical antecedents and legislative background for preservation
planning. 2) Statewide survey of historical and archaeological resources.
3) Long-range planning and projected needs for Alaska's heritage resources.
Archaeological investigations which have taken place in the Susitna
region (and annotated) include those at the Knik site, the Denali Highway
region~ and various locations in the upper Susitna Basin.
SOURCES-The State Division of Parks, U.S. Bureau of Outdoor Recreation
and the University of Alaska are the primary information sources cited
in the Recreation and Archaeology Section.
240
-
II. INDEX: 1"\ECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY
_)
C)
_)
I I. INDEX: RECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Alaska Outdoor Recreation Plan 1976-1980.
2. Hatcher Pass.
3. Proposed Hatcher Pass State Recreation Area.
4. An Act Establishing the Hatcher Pass State Recreational Area.
5. Hatcher Pass Study Area Technical Support Material.
6. Lake Louise: A Summary Development Guide.
7. Lake Louise Study Area Technical Support Material.
8. Environmental Planning tor an Alaskan Water-Oriented Recreation Area:
Nancy Lake.
9. The Talachul itna River, A Wild and Scenic
10. Alaska Recreational Lands and Resources: A Priority Listing.
I I. Dena I i State Park: A Master Plan.
12. The Dena I i Highway Information Plan.
13. Heritage Resources along the Susitna River.
14. Alaska Heritage Resource Inventory,
15. An Archaeological Survey Along Knik Arm.
16. Archaeological Discoveries on the Dena! i Highway.
17. An Archaeological Survey of the Susitna Val ley.
18. Other Archaeological References.
19. Historic Preservation Publications tor Alaska
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Wild and Scenic River Analyses-Little Susitna, Deshka,
Alexander Creek.
2. Community Recreation Resource Assessment -Wi I low.
3. Archaeological Investigation Nancy Lake Area.
4. Stephen Lake Archaeological Investigation.
241
I I I. PUBLISHED INFORMATION: RECREATION & ARCHAEOLOGY
__ )
Title:
/\rea:
Interest:
~--1aps:
Tables:
Alaska Outdoor F~ecreation Plan 1976-1980.
Alaska nerartment of Natural Resources, Division of Parks.
( Seotemher 1976) , ( 145 r. ) .
Statewide; section on Southcentral Alaska.
Interest Level 2.
AI I seven maps are statewide maps divided by the five
State reqions: Southeastern, Southcentral, South-
western, Interior and Northwestern.
Numerous tables and other qraphic presentations are
included in this report. Significant tables are
as follows:
I) Land t-'lanagement Resoonsibi I ities in Alaska
(as of November 30, 1973).
2) Future Land 1-1anaqement Resoonsibi I ities (orooosed)
3) Inventory of Recreation Acreaqe and Faci I ities:
a)Federal Agencies; b)State Aqencies; c) Local Communities;
d) private sector (As of June 30, 1973).
4) List of Alaska properties on the National Reqister
of Historic Places, as of June I, 1976. In the Susitna
Basin these include the Knik site and Independence
!-1ine.
5) Resident and nonresident oarticioation in outdoor
recreation activities: by activity and region; projected
resident recreation participation (1980, 1985, and 1990).
6) t·-1ultimodal Transportation and Uti I itv Corridor
Systems; a I istinq of proposed routes, environmental
imoacts, purposes, and vi I I ages.
7) Summary of public and private funding sources for
outdoor recreation.
8) Schedule of development by federal agencies; by
state agencies (July I, 1973-June 30, 1978).
9) Schedule of acquisition by local communities;
schedule of development by local communities (July I, 1973-
June 30, 1978).
242
Thn n I rln inc: ludns thn fo I I ow i n'l c;r)ct ion<;: in trorlw: i· ion,
suor I v of rncrntlt ion a I rnso11rcw;, rjr~r'l<lnrl for r)utdoor
recrnation, outdoor n~cn;<Jtion nnnrls, critic;11 ic;<;uns,
nroflrnm rrooosnls, nol icy recommr~nrln·tion<>, irnnlnmnnt-
ntion nronr<1ms, summr.trv of mn_jor findinr1c; nnr1
recoMm(~n •bt ions.
The orinciral outrloor rncrentionnl resources i'lrf~ discusserl
hv nlnnninn renions. Arnas within the Susitna River basin
discussed include nenal i State r:>ark, and the Nr.tncy Lr.tke
Recrention area. Rncommedations relevant to the Susitna
ren ion are to r.tdd the Hatcher rass·-Ta I kentna 1 -1ountr.~ in
aren to the Stnte rark Svstem, and to add i1 Tokositna
narcel to nenr.tl i State Pr.~rk.
243
Title:
l\re:1:
Interest
llntcher Pass, r>reonrod under cnntrnct hv the ";tP.lte
nivTsTon nf-Pnrks tn the Alaska Fnvironr10ntnl Grouo,
a joint venture nf En~ineerin~ Services, Seth V. Yerrin~tnn
nnd 1\ssocintes P.lnd Jnri'l 1\onl ied Sciencos. Inc.,
(nn dP.lte of nublicntion), (45 o. illus.).
Interest Leve I I .
I) Environmenhl Sensitivities Cnooroximately 1"=3 miles)
These five sensitivities nre denicted in n four -
de~ree color ran~e: a) extreMe wind exposure, h) areas
of cold air oondin~. c) slooes over 20~, d) winter moose
ranqe, and e) areas of ootential floodin~.
2) Toroqrnohy. (Aonroximntelv 1"=3 miles).
3) r,eoloqy. (Aorroximntelv 1"=3 miles).
Color shndino indicates the follmlin!l ~eoloqic formations:
alluvium; qlacial deposits; lava flows: arkose, shale
and sandstone: ornnitic intrusives; oneiss: and mien
schist. Fault I ines, and orohahle fault contact lines
are also indicnted
4) Mines of the Willow Creek District. (Scale
reduced in size for reoort reproduction.)
5) Recommended Land Use Har. (approximately 1"=3 miles).
The to II ow in~ recommended uses nre shown on the mao:
park headauarters, information center and control point,
ski resort areCl, view ooints, camrinq areas, summer
roads, alI season roads, foot trai Is, bike trai Is,
snow machine area. and prooosed nark boundarv.
6) 1'/i ldl ife (aoproximatelv 1"=3 miles). r,1oose ranoe,
brown bear dennina and beaver ponds are shown.
7) Slone Steenness (aooroxiMntelv 1"=3 miles). Shaded
areas indicate slooe of 0-10~, 10-20%, 20-30%, and
qreater than 30%.
AI I maos are of the same base (with contour intervals
of 40() feet). and appear to he reduced for reproduction
in this report.
244
tlescri ot ion:
f\ "Faci I itics n11velonmcnt Schedule" indici1tes tho descrio-
tion, location and five vear develoornent nhnsin'1 for such
faci I ities ns rnanaflernent faci I ities, nark ronds, r><1rk
nicnic units, camninq units, trni Is. rarkinf1 lots,
rest stoos, view noints, resort development ond restor-
ation of two mines in the nroposed oark vicinity.
Estimated costs for nersonnel and equirment for the
oroposed onrk area are included in a mi1intenance and
oneri'!tions schedule.
The rer>ort is divided into three main sections.
They are: I) an inventory of the natur~l and cultural
environment of the area; l) a summary of the recomMended
uses of its lands, wi'lters i'lnd other recre<'ltion resources:
and 3) a set of qui del ines for iMplementation of the
recommended olan.
The reoort serves as a summary of the olanninfl effort
undertnken to assist in decidinq the ultimate develop-
ment and use of the Hatcher Pass area. Approximately
107,500 acres--the southern most ed11e of the Talkeetna
'1ount<'lins--are under consideration by this study. The
State is considerinfl oarts of this reqion for inclusion
as a State recreation area.
,Rrief paraflraphs qive an overview of the fol lowinq
environmental factors of the reflion: qeolony, ohysio-
qrarhv and soi Is, climate, hydroloqv and water f'lUal itv,
Vef'letation, fish and wi lrll ife, archaeoloav and history,
existinq development natterns, recreational trends, and
demoqraphy. A number of noteworthy environmental
sensitivities of the reaion are summnrized in concludinn
remarks to this section.
The environmental resource dati1 nresented in the first
section are analyzed and interpreted in terms of the
snecial I imitations and oonortunities they oose.
These I imitations and onnortunities are oresented as a
series of environmental form determinants uoon which the
recreational use conceots nnd land use plan are based.
The chanter concludes with a discussion of potential
boundary adjustments that wi I I oromote better manaqe-
ment of the recreational and environmental resources
of the area, and recommendations concerninq soecial
environmental interoretive oroqrams suitable to the
study are<'~.
245
-)
Descrintion:
(cant)
~ener~l quidel ines for imnlemnntatinn nf tho recommended
Plan include tho fol lowinq mea~ures: ~) ~nneral con-
struction quidelines, includino materi~ls with re11r3rd
to soi Is and slone, suq~este~ construciton methods i'3nd
soecial considerations (anim~ls, winds, snowfal I).
b) Gradin'l and drainaqe quidelines for various recommended
park facilities.
c) Water suooly and waste disposal '1Uidel inns.
d) RecoMmended monitorino proqram with resnect to many
aspects of environment and recreational dnvelonment.
A final section includes a brief discussion of maintenance
and operation, on a seasonal basis, of the nrooosed
park area.
246
Tit It':
Ire.,:
I ntnn,st:
· 'aos:
[loser i ot ion:
f'"lrooosed Hatcher f'"l~ss Statrl l~ecn~<1t ion f',roa.
1)-l~nn i nfl Se~~t ion, 1\ I aska Divis i o-n--o-f_P_:;r-ks-,-
(lq/7), (7 oaflo informational f>rochuro, illw;.).
Stntn Priority aren I. 1 1ntchAr f'"lnss vicinity.
Interest LevAI 2.
rroposed H<1tcher rass Stnte f~Acreat ion /\ro<1 < I "=4 m i I es).
This tooooraphic mao indicates the nronosed rAcreation
area bounrlnrir~s. cxistinr"l road system, and nrcn/nlace
nnmes in the vicinity.·
The publ icatinn is desiqned to inform (tho nubl ic) of
the 11atcher Pnss Pecreation 1\rP.a nronosal, and oxnlain
th0 lc'lislation which nrovides for the continuation of
existinq mininq and qrnzinq activities.
Brief descrintions of the reqion's nntural resources;
tonoqranhv, Vefletatinn, and wildlife: cl imnte;
cultural features; nnd recrention demnnds "lre included.
A summary of the results of a visitor survey (administered
to neonle travel I inn hv vehicle on the Fishhook-Wi I low
Road in Auflust 197~. bv members of the Alaska Youth
Conservation Corns) is included in the nh~mohlot.
Hvrlro'lranhic watershed manaoement, the Willow caoital
site, and other develonnhle lands were considered in
drawin1 houndi'lries of the nrooosed recreation ~rea.
Provisions for mininq and I ivestock nrazinq ~re thounht
to be comnatihle with the recreation use oro~os~l and
are allowed bv the leqislativo nrooosal.
247
-)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
An Act Establishing the Hatcher Pass State Recreational
Area. (A copy of recommended State Legislation, Eighth
Legislature, Second Session, suggested for House Bi I I
748 and Senate Bil I 436), (2 p. copy).
State Priority area 1.
Interest Leve I I.
The two page legislative proposal explains the purpose
of the proposal to dedicate lands and waters within
the Hatcher Pass Recreation Area to recreational uses.
It recognized that mining may be undertaken in the
area under lease and that mining activity outside the
mineral zone be permitted, if compatible with recreation
use.
The proposed legislation notes that a land classifi-
cation map for the Hatcher Pass area is on file with the
Department of Natural Resources, and that map changes
are ettective only upon approval by the Commissioner,
Department of Natural Resources.
248
TitiP.:
Are:1:
Interest:
Descrintion:
f~atc~er P<1ss Study Area _ _T_f:_C_~!li_ca 1_....:'2_L!P_fl_?_r_t_ ~~~t__P:_r_i_~_l_.
Prenarnd under contract hv the State nivision of Parks
to tho Alaskn Envirnnr1ental Groun, a joint venture ns
exrlained below. (An unruhl isherl cormi lntion of
material on file with the PlannlnCJ Section , Alaska
nivi sion of Parks.) (t\fo date.).
State Priority Area I. Hatcher Pass vicinity.
Interest Level I.
This is a larfle notebook containinCJ technical
and sunplemental reference material, or~anized in
accordano~ with the Hatcher Pass Studv Area summary
report. (See-''Hatcher Pass" annotation this section.)
The information in this vo I ur1e is orqan i zed as fo I I ows:
I ) The natura I environment; nrepnred bv the r1urray-
~cCormick ~nvironmentnl Group; 2) recreation lanrl use:
prepared bv Seth YerrinfJton and Associates: 3) en11ineerinn
imrlementation; nrepared bv Enqineerin<1 Services.
Other sections include 4) inoact assessment: 5) acknow-
ledqements and communications; and 6) sunplemental
references.
Some envirnnment aspects considered include the fol lowinq:
qeoloqic history and processes: ohvsioqranhv, soi Is,
faultinq and stabi I itv; mineralization; cl ir1atoloqy:
hydroiOCJV, water f1Ual itv: veqetation (interior forest,
subaloine, marshes and boqs): fish and wildlife: and
mammals.
Avai labi I ity: Unpublished report: oriqinal on file with the Planninq
Section, Division of Parks.
249
Title:
Area:
Interest
!1aps:
Description:
Lake Louise: A Summary Development Guid~. The Alaska
Environmental Group under contract by the Division of
Parks, (no date), (42 p. i flus.).
Upper Susitna Sub-basin.
Interest Level I.
Environmental Sensitivities; (f/4"=1 mi fe) contour
intervals 100 feet.
Physioqraohic Features, (f/4"=1 mile).
Lake Louise: Depth Contours and Bottom Conditions,
( 1/4 ''= 1/2 m i I e).
Vegetative Associations, (1/4''=1 mile).
Fish and Wildlife Resources, (f/4''=1 mile).
Recommended Land Use f·4ap (1/4"=1 mile).
Slope Steepness, (1/4"=1 mile).
The report material is oresented in three main sections:
f) inventory of the natural and cultural environment
of the study area; 2) summary of recommended uses of
lands, waters and other recreational resources: and
3) a set of quidel ines for implementation of the recom-
mended plan.
Water and land related sensitivities, such as trumpeter
swan habitat, prime unforested wildlife habitat,
marshes and bogs are shown on the Environmental
Sensitivities mao.
Study area descriptions include geology, physiography,
soils, cl lmatoloqy, hydrology, water quality, vegetation,
fish, wildlife, archaeology, history and land use patterns.
Environmental form determinants are also analyzed by the
above I isted resource subjects.
The following concerns
interpretive programs:
conditions, I iminoloqy
in the native society,
society.
250
are discussed under special
glaciation, extreme weather
of lakes, the role of wildlife
and the structure of the native
Titlo:
Area:
Interest:
nescrifltion:
L<1kn LouisA Studv l\ro2 Technir.<1l Surnort '1atori_:"1_1 __ •
f""lronarod under controct hy the State [Jivision of
Pnrks to tho Alaska Environmental Groun, a joint
venturn. <This is nn unrubl ished comri lation of
mnterial on file with the Plannin~ Section. Alaskn
Oivision of Parks.) (No date).
!Jrrer Susitna Sub-hasin Lake Louise vicinity.
Interest Leve I I .
This is o Iaroe notebook containin~ technical
and SUPPlemental reference informntion in
accordnnce with the headin~s of the nuhl ished
reoort "Lake Louise: A Summary f1evelopment
Guide." (See annotntion this section.)
The heanin~s in this technical suooort document
are as foiiO\vs: I) natural environment,
2) recreation land use, 3) enqineerin~ imnle-
mnntatinn, ~) imnart assessment, ~) arknnwlorl~ements
and commun-cations, and 6) suoplemental references.
The natural environment baseline, oreoared bv the
i·1urrav-t1cCormick Group includes the followin(]
aren descriptions or field note records:
I) Physiooraohy. six soi I associations. oeolo~v
permafrost and seasonal frost.
2) Faultinq, and minerals.
3) Implementation for recreation developm8nt, cl imatoloav,
hydroloqy and water qual ltv.
4) Veqetation fish and wildlife includin~ mammals, hirns
and fish.
Avai labi I itv: llnpubl isher! report: orininal on file with the Plannin'l
Section, Division of Parks.
251
=)
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Desert ot ion:
Environmental PlanninCJ for an Alask<m VJ<iter-0riented
Recreation Area: Nancv Lake. Smith D.w.: Institute
of Water Resources University of Alaska, Fairbanks.
Report No. LWR-64 (June 1975).
State Priority Area I, Nancy Lake Recreational Area
Interest Level 2.
The purpose of this nroject was to evaluate the
environmental condition of the project site. This,
in turn, would provide information on the status
of aquatic systems and effects on sports fisheries,
of Increased recreational activitv.
The Institute of Water Resources beqan the oroject
In July, 1973 as a joint pro.iect with the U.S. ()ffice
of \•later Research and Technoloqv (0WRT) and the Alaska
Division of Parks. The ~!vision of Parks withdrew
their participation in the three-way aqreements and this
report is restricted to I imnoloqical data collected from
the Nancy Lakes area orior to cancellation of the aqreement.
Included, then, are the fol lowina sections:
I) Data folder of lakes in the study area. For each lake
in the Nancy Lakes complex is a data sheet includinq:
surface acres, fish species, discharqe, invetebrates,
waterhsed type, accessihil ity pollution and use sites.
2) A Master of Science Thesis by F.L. Smith, University
of Alaska is included, (''Effects of Nutrient Addition
on Algae Production and an Evaluation of a Method of
t·1easurinq Alqae Produclton'').
3) IWR report (number 63) by Jacque! lne LaPerrlere,
('Evaluation of Trophic Tyoes of Several Alaskan Lakes
by Assessment of Benthic Fauna.")
Availabi I ity: Unpublished report: oriqinal on file with the Planninq
Section, Division of Parks.
252
Titln:
Aren:
Interest:
·laos:
:1escr i ot ion
The Tal~chul itna Rivnr, A Wild and Scenic ~iver
A-n-;1-vsis. nurenu of Outdoor r~ecreation, Alaska
Field Officn, (October IC)7o), (revised Anri I 1977),
( 45, D. i I I us. CODY) •
State Prioritv Arna 3a.
Interest Leve I I .
I) Re~ional mao <noor qual itv cooy; Talachul itna
out I ined; ( 1"'=25 mi I e sea I e).
2) Area map coov of USGS tooo~ranhic ouadranole (poor
quality. for location purnoses onlv, 1"=4 mile scale).
3) Snecies abundance-sockeve, oink, chum, Cohoe, Kinq:
1973-1975.
The reoort was nrenared by the Rureau of Outdoor Recreation
in response to a reouest by the Division of Lands for
analyses of river-related resources on State lands,
(siMilar to those beinq conducted by the Rureau of
Outdoor Recreation on Federal Lands).
The river's settin~ is described in detai I as to direction
of flow, tributaries, tonooraphy, depth and width at
various noints, drainaqe area, and water temperatures
(recorded August 1-6, 1976). t.Jo stream flow data is
available but the time of maxiMum and miniMum flow is
indicated.
Climate of the drainage area is described, with summary
data from the U.S. \'leather Service at Skwentna provided
for compa r i son.
Water quality data are lackinn but the nresence of several
lodqes and seasonal residences is indicated.
A substantial nortion of river users are quided or flown
in and most land use is for recreational nurooses. Lodqes
and cabins alonq the Talachul itna are described.
The renort indicates that the Alaska Power AdMinistration
has identified a system of three notential dam sites for
hydroelectric develonment alonq the Yentna and Skwentna
Rivers: such a nroject would affect tho lower Talachul itna.
The renort discussion of land ownershiP indicates: I) the
Talachul itna land area oatented to the State: 2) anoroximate
acreage of f.1at-Su florouqh se I ected I and: 3) or i vate I and
narce Is and ''ooen to entry'' rarce Is: and 4) coa I
orosoectinq oermits.
253
-------~~-···~··-~ ·~-----~----~-~------~--·· ~~.-~ ·~ ··~~··-~~
nescrintion:
(cont)
Water riqhts, navibati I ity and streambed ownership as
wei I as seasonal accessibility by a variety of modern
and traditional transportation modes are described.
The following resource topics are included in the
Talachul ltna report: sol Is (Alaska Exploratory Sol I
Survey), veqetatlon and timber, qeolo~v, and minerals.
Areas of wi ldl lfe concentration, includin~ dennln~ areas
and nesting areas are qenerally indicated. Area
fisheries are described by species, and fishery is noted
as the most outstandinq recreation resource of the river.
The recreation value of the area for floatin~, hikinq
existing recreational use, future use and I imitations
to recreational use are ~iven.
The AOR concludes that the Talachul itna meets the criteria
established by the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act as
a "wild river area", and recommends the area be identified
as a wild or scenic river within a State river system.
254
Tit I r>:
I ntP.n~st:
Descri ot ion:
Al~ska Recreational L~nds ~nd ~esources: A Priority
List i nq. Jnh:'lnnsen, IV~ and r1e i ners, A. H.: PI nnn i n'l
Section, Division of P~rks, (Anril 1076), (1)'5 n. iiiiJ'~.).
Statewide.
Interest Level 3.
As nart of~ unified anoroach to evaluatin~ the St~te's
resources for use in makinq critical lnnd use decisions,
statewide oarks, recreation and histori~ resources were
oiven ~ "prinritv" rankin'l. The Parks Planninfl Section
orenared an assP.ssment sheet which identifies and scores
five major demand elorrlents, and seven natural and cultural
resource elements.
The fol lowinq topics were evaluated to provide input
to the recreation resource assessment form:
a) Oerrloqraphics; includinfl desires of oeoole and levels
of rarticin~tinn,
b) Access: transportation modes nnd their oroxirnity to
recreation resources.
c) Attractiveness of a recreation resource, or its user
aooea I .
d) Activity potentials (adooted frorrl State Co"lflrehensiv~_
Outdoor Recreation Plan).
e) Recreational needs presently accorrlmodated as an
indicator of lack of desiqnated and established
recreation areas.
These values were incornorated into the evaluation of
natural and cultural resource values.
A brief (one pane or less) description of each resource
area, its location, settinq and recreation value is
qiven. A oercenti le ratinq of demand factors, resource
values, and a combined score is qiven. Also included
is a toooqraphic map indicatinq the boundarv of the
resource a rea.
Areas within the Susitna River Basin included in the
oriority I istinq follow: Dena I i State Park exoansion,
~ancy Lake Recre~tion Area, Alexander Creek flv-in
Wayside, Tangle Lakes State Historical Park, Talkeetna
i1ountains State Park, and t1t. rkKinlev t~ational Dark
additions.
This report should not he used apart from other infor-
mation in makin~ critical land use decisions.
255
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~~ap s:
Description:
Dena I i State Park: A Master Plan. Department of
Na-tural l~esources, Division of Parks; (1975),
(49 p. i I Ius.).
State priority area 3b, anrl Talkeetna sub-basin.
Interest Leve I I .
I) A statewide location man (no scale).
2) Reqional map (1''=30 miles, approximately).
3) Slopes over 15 percent (1"=4 miles).
4) So i Is ( I "=4 m i I es) .
5) VerJetation, (1"=4 miles).
6) W i I d I i fe ( I ''=4 m i I es) .
7) Sport Fish Occurrence, (I "=4 m i I es).
8) Land Status (I "=4 mi I es).
9) Prooosed Boundarv Chanqe (I "=4 miles).
The Plan contains the fol lowinq sections: introduction,
physical elements, social, cultural and economic elements,
the plan, imolementation qui del ines, operations plan, and
appendix. The plan establishes qui del ines for area
deve looment.
256
Tiilc:
Area:
Interest:
Maps:
Description:
The Dena I i Highway Information Plan. Colorado State
University, for the Bureau of Land Management, (1976),
( I 25 p. i I I us. ) .
Upper Susitna Basin.
Interest Leve I I.
I) Denali Highway Geology (1/2"=4 miles).
2) Dena! i Highway Vegetation (1/2"=4 miles).
3) Dena! i Highway Wildlife: Caribou and Dal I Sheep,
Moose, Fishing locations.
4) Trai I map with hiking and canoe trai Is (I :250,000 and
I :63, 360 sea I e) .
This report includes a comprehensive inventory of Dena! i
Highway visitor interests and desires.
Natural resources, historic and cultural resources,
recreation opportunities, and available services, are
inventoried. Objectives and recommendations were
developed from this inventory.
The plan synthesizes information and recommendations
into media and designs to communicate information to
users. Emphasis is on geology of the area.
Availability: One report copy on file at Bureau of Land Management.
257
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~-1ans:
Tables:
Descriotion:
<)
Herita_qe Resour~~a_!_o...!l.~ the Susitna River. Alaska Division
of Parks, Misc. Publications History and Archaeology Series
No. 14 (Auqust 1975), (62 f'l. illus.). (A studv prepared tor
the Corns of Engineers.)
Upper Susltna Rasin.
Interest Leve I I .
I) Placer claim man of the Valdez Creek Minin0 District
(I ''=5 ,000 feet).
2) Sketch man of Upper Susitna and Chistochina River
Rasins (I :750,000 scale).
I) Heritage Resource Salvage Proqram AI locations.
2) Corre I ati on bet~omen c I i mate oer i ods and a rchaeo I oq i ca I
periods.
The report describes findinqs of a historical and archaeo-
loqical survey made of the water imnoundment area of the
proposed Uoper Susitna River hydroelectric project.
An ecotone model (a model stressing that huMan activity
centered In areas with the most diverse habitat) was used
to identify areas where probahil ity of encounterinq
archaeological sites was qreatest.
The report summarizes knowledqe of the early historical
developments of the pro_ject area and reviews known
aboriginal exploration of the reqion. Recommended
courses of action for preservation of known and expected
heritage resources are presented.
258
Titlo:
1\ren:
Interest:
Descrintion:
A I ask<'l Her i tn<]e r~esource Inventory. Hannah I e, W
Alaska Division of Parks, 3 Volumes.
Statewido
Interest Level 2.
The Statewide historic preservation master nlnn for
Alaska, of which this resource inventory is <'l major
part, is oreoared in three sepnrate sections:
Volume I --Historical Rackqround oresents historical
antecedents-al1~1eqislative backqround for oreservntion
in Alaskn; the State's ohi losophy and pol icy on heritaqe
resources and their use: an analysis of preservation
planninn,'s relationship to other State planninq; a
discussion of major Preservation problems: and a
description of the criteria and methods of the State-
wide survey of historic and archaeoloqical resources.
Volume I I -Tho Statowido Inventory, describes the purpose
and scope of the-historic and archaeological resource
inventory. It also I ists the thematic framework, with
properties recorded in the Statewide survey classified
by theme and geographic location. Appearing in the
Alaska Heritage Resource Survey Index (miscellaneous
publ !cation, History and Archaeological Series No. 3)
is a computer generated (quarterly) appendix of site
information useful to planninq agencies.
Volume I I 1 -Jhe Annual Preservation Program is both a
status report on the existinq State historic preservation
effort, a discussion of lonq range plannino and orojection
of needs durinq the next three fiscal years, (FY-76, FY-77,
and FY-78). This volume of the Statewide historic
preservation plan is revised annually. (This is the 4th
edit ion).
Another survey that cornol iments these resource inventory
volumes is the Alaska Heritaa,e Resource Survey -A
Photograph CataTo~, 0Hscellaneous Publ !cations:-History
and Archaelogical Series No. 4, May 1974), which gives the
location, subject and date of the historical site
photograph collection.
Availability: AI I of the Alaska Heritage Resource Inventory oubl !cations
are available for review at the Alaska Roorn, UAA Consortium
Library, or at the State Division of Parks.
259
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~,1ap:
Oeser loti on:
An Arch~eological Survey Along Knik Arm. Dumond, D.E.,
and Mace, R. L.A.: Anthropo I oq i ca I Paners of the IJn i vers i tv
of Alaska, Volume 14, Number I (196R) (p. 1-~1).
State Priority Area I.
Interest Level I.
~1ap shows Knik Arm sites and vicinity (1"=2 miles).
Four sites are described in detail and sketches of artifacts
are included. Conclusions are drawn, based on the minimal
evidence, that Pacific Eskimos (A.n. 1000) and Tanaina
(Athapaskan Indians, A.D. 1650) occuoied the reqion.
260
Tit I(~:
Interest:
flE>scr inti on:
Archaeolo']ical 11iscoverios on the 11onal i Hinhway.
Skarlond, I. and Keim, C.J.; Anthropolo<"Jical Paners
of the University of Alaska, Volume 6, tJo. 2 (o. 79-SR>.
LJooer Susitna f1asin.
Interest Level 2.
Sites alon<1 the Dena! i Hiqhway are described and photonraohs
of flint specimens are included. The finrls are believed to
be from the Atna lnrlians (Ahtena) who used this renion as
a huntin<"J nrounds. fJo means of datin11 was found hut the
soeciMens are judf"Jed to be at least 2,000, oerhaos more than
4,000 years old.
261
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
·.)
An Archaeological Survey of the Susitna Val ley
lrvin!'l, \~.H.; Anthropoloqical Paoers of the University of
Alaska, 1957, Vol. 6, No. I. ( p. 37-52).
Upper Susitna Basin
Interest Level 3.
Sites within the area alonq the shores of Lake Susitna,
most of Tyone Lake, and the Tyone River to the point where
it is entered by Tyone Creek were surveyed and are described.
The hi I Is on the southwest side of Lake Louise were also
examined.
262
OTHm /\f~CHAF\)LOG IC:AL REFEf\CJC:ES (not annotated in this bib I icJqraphy)
~chaeo I og i cill F _!.QJ_cL_Stu_ii_es: Kachemak Ray, Chu!Jach, Hatcher £_as~,
!::1_ke Louise Study Ar_e~. t1ary Ann Keq I er ( 1971 ) •
Archaeologica I Reconn.9_issance of Dena I i State Park.
Alaska f1ivision of Parks (1971), (9 p.).
;)ld \vorld Affinitites of Archaeoloqical ComoiA_xes from Tangle Lakes,
Central Alaska. Khaharovsk (1973): a paper read at International
COn!Jress on the Rerinq Land Rridqe.
263
HISTORIC rRESERVATIOf\1 PUf3LICATinrrs F()R ALASKA
Planninq Oocuments
A I i"lSkct 1 s PI i"ln for 1·1<'lnageMent and r..onserv<'ltion of Heritage Peso_u_!::_ce~.
1973-1983, VoluMe I, Historic~I_RacktJrou~. AIC'lska nivision of Pi'lrks:
Anchoraoe, 1974.
Alaska's Plan for r~anC'lgement and Conserv<'ltion of Heritaqe Resources,
1973-1983, Volume II, lnventor:Y.· Alaska Division of Parks: Anchor<3qe,
Revised 1975.
Alaska's Plan for t~anaqerr1ent and Conservation of Heritarte Resources,
1973-1 983, Vo I ume I I I , Ann ua!Pre-servat ion Prot"]~ 75/1.2_. A 1-ask_a __
Division of Parks; Anchoraqe, 1975.
Survev and Studies
*Alaskan Archaeology_: A Bib! io_g_rap~ ~1iscellaneous Pub! ications, History
and Archaeoloqy Series No. I, 2nd Ed., Alaska Division of Parks; Anchora()e,
1974.
*Alaska's Abandoned Towns: Case Studies for Preservation and lnterpret<'l-
tion. Miscellaneous Pub! ications, History and ArchaeolortY Series No. 2,
Alaska Division of Parks and \'/estorn Interstate Commission on HiCJher
Education, Anchorage, 1972, $5.00.
Alaska Heritaqe Resource Survey Index. Hiscellaneous Pub! ications,
History and Archaeology Series No.3, Alaska Division of Parks:
Anchoraqe, 1974. Out of Print.
Alaska Heritage_Resource ...?_urvey: A Photogr:i!PJl Cataloque. Miscellaneous
Publications, History and Archaeofoqy Series No. 4, Alaska Division of
Parks, Anchorage, 1974. Out of Print.
The Lower Cooper and Chitina Rivers: An Historic Resource Study.
r~iscellaneous PubTicatfonS"':-HTstory ari(iArchaeoloqy Series No. 5,
Alaska Division of Parks; Anchoraqe, 1974.
*Alaska's Historic Roadhouses. Miscellaneous Publications, History and
Archaeology Series No. 6, Alaska Division of Parks and Western
Interstate Commission of Yiqher Education; Anchorarte, 1974. $4.00.
Aids to ~~aviqation in Alaska History. Miscellaneous Publications, History
and Archaeology, Series No. 7,--ATaska Division of Parks: 1974. Out of
Print.
Copies of publications I isted above with an asterisk (*) may be obtained
in reprint from the Alaska Historical Society, Box 2108, Star Route A,
Anchoraqe, for a hand I inrt fee as indicated. Others in print may be
obtained, at no cost, from Alaska Division of Parks.
264
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS: RECREATI0N & ARCHAEOU'GY
Project:
Contact·
Area:
Descriotion:
Status:
Duration:
WIld and Scenic River Analyses -Little Susitna, Deshka,
Alexander Creek.
Bil I Thomas, Area Director; Oureau of Outdoor Recreation;
540 West 5th Avenue; Anchoraqe, Alaska: 265-5345.
State priority areas I and 3a (Little Susitna River).
State Priority area 2 and Talkeetna Sub-basin (Deshka and
Alexander Creek).
The Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, in cooperation with the State
as part of their technical assistance proqram, is providinq
resource investiqations of rivers which have some potential for
inclusion in a national system of free-flowinq streams.
In 1975 immediate assistance was speciflcal lv requested for
analyses of the Talachul itna and Deshka Rivers. Preliminary
studies on these rivers have been completed.
The Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, is in the orocess of preparinq
a prol iminary report on tho Little Su~itna River. The5e
analyses are expected to be completed in 1978.
Other rivers within the Susitna Basin included as State
priority concerns for possible inclusion as Wild and
Scenic Rivers are the Deshka (Kroto Creek), and Alexander Creek.
Little Susitna preliMinary report summer 1978.
Deshka and Alexander Creek wi I I tentatively be completed after
the 1979 field season.
July 1975, f·Hke Smith, Director of the Alaska Division of Lands
requested the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation to assist in the
analyses of river-related resources on State lands.
Comoletion date of alI analyses is not known.
265
~'roinct:
Cont:lct:
'~Pscri ntion:
Status:
!Jurat ion:
Communitv Recreation Resource Assessment-Wi I low.
Nat r,oodhue; f)ivision of Parks.
State nriority area I.
nurin0 the 1q77 suMmer field season, the Youth Conservation
Corns undertook the nroject, (throuqh thorouClh field
inventories) to identify a systeM of parks, qrcenhelts,
wildlife habitat, and other areas at the future canital
site. These reqions would he areas of possible conservation
because of their natural features.
The nivision of Parks, statewide outdoor planninCl staff
orovirled inventory forMs for existinq and potential recreation
areas. The results of the YCC assessment are to he forwarded
to the Caoital Site PlanninCl Commission.
Unknown.
Sur1mer 1977.
266
----···---·---
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
IJ
Archaeoloqlcal lnvestlC'latlon Nancy Lake Area.
Doug Reger, State Archaeoloqlst; Alaskn Division
of Parks.
State priority area I Nancy Lake area.
The Division of Parks anticipates beqinninq a historical
and archaeological investiqation In the Nancy Lake area
during 1978.
No further information is available.
Summer 1978 ( tentative).
267
Project:
Conti'lct:
.1\rei'l:
r)escri pt ion:
Stntus:
Duration:
Stenhen Lnke Archaeolo<1ical lnvestl!'V'ltion.
Dr. Frederick Hadleioh-\.1/est.
Stenhan Lake is n 4.2 mile-lonq lake nt the hend of
Prnirie Creek, 45 miles northenst of Talkentni'l.
An archaeoloqical investi~ation wil I he Mnrle of the
Stenhan Lake area.
For further informntion on the nroqress of the investi-
qatlon, cont~ct nou<l Re<1er, State Archaeoloqist.
Oivlsion of Parks.
Summer 1978.
268
----··--------------~--~-----
-)
land use &
land status
Sect ion VIII
CONTENTS: LAN[) lJSr 1\ LAND STATUS
I • I NTRO[)lJCT I ON & SIJt1~1/\PY 270
I I. INDEX 271
I I I. CR0SS INDEX 273
IV. PURL I SHED I r~FORt1/\ T I ON 274
V. ONGOING·PROJECTS 283
iJ
269
I. INTRODlJCTIOti.J & SlJ~,1r1ARY: LANf1 USE & LAND STATUS
:J
---------~~-------------------------
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: LAND USE AND LAND STATUS
At present the status of public land in Alaska is relatively fluid and
wi I I remain so unti I Congress finalizes decisions on the land which is
withdrawn for National Forest, Park, Wildlife Refuge and Wild and Scenic
River Systems. In the early years of statehood, portions of the Matanuska
and Susitna Valleys were included in State land selections becau~e of
their attractiveness for human use and settlement. Currently land
trades, rei inquishments, and reselections are occurring in the Susitna
region, and wil I probably continue as land ownership patterns are readjusted
to make better alignments between government objectives and the potential
of various natural regions. Because of the nature of the Susitna Cooperative
Study, and other work tasks underway by the Department of Natural Resources,
Planning and Research Section, there has been no systematic effort to
collect alI information generated on land use and land status in the
Susitna Basin. A land use inventory uti I izing aerial photographs and
field checking, and a land status mapping project using State and Federal
stntw;; rlntc; nrf:) twn rrnjArtc;; ('llrn~ntly llnrlflrwny thnt wi II rrnvirlA n
thorough and systematic approach to any future land management, use or
classification actions.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS -At the time of its completion in 1973, the Federal-
State Land Use Planning Commission resource inventory offered a collection
of mapped resource information of particular value. A summary of the
land classification actions pending (as of the close of the research of
this bibliography), are included in the Ongoing Projects section.
Within the context of land use plann~ng, classification is perhaps best
described as the process which refines general use recommendations in
areas where land use activity is imminent. Other information contained
in the Land Use/Land Status section includes such reports as solid waste
disposal studies, new lands development, and several investigations into
the feasibility of a Point MacKenzie seaport.
Again, it should be emphasized, thorough investigation of £LL avai !able
land use and land status studies of the Susitna Basin was not undertaken,
but the information contained within should indicate the level of detai I
and completeness of information to date.
270
II. INDEX: LN,Jf) USE & LAND STATUS
I I. INDEX: LAND USE & LAND STATUS
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Development of New Lands in Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
2. 20 Composite Maps of Resource Overlay Collection, Prepar~d by
Joint Federal-State Land Use Planning Commission, Resource Planning
Team.
3. Preliminary Feasibi I ity Report, Point MacKenzie Seaport.
4. Point MacKenzie Land Use Report.
5. Solid Waste Disposal Study.
6. Palmer Comprehensive Development Plan,
7. lrlentification of Phenolnoical Staoes anrl Veoetation TypP.s for
Land Use Classification: Final Report.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Land Disposals/Classification Cases -Susitna Summary.
2. Mt. McKinley Cooperative Planning and Management Study.
3. Alaska Coastal Zone Atlas.
271
)th,,r r~nt.'n'nr0.s: LAND lJSf-,1', LMJI) STATI!S (no! <mnolcdcd in Hlis bib! iogr;Jphyl =-)
~-~.lt.1nu,~k<'l Susitn2Florou~ Co~_r::_:~.0_ens_i_vn _nevnlopment Plan:
Ph.l~;o I, Survev nnd Ann I ys is ('1arch I9GC1)
~1.:2_:~, r~t3commendat~_!!.S_.
1 \,~n:'li Peninsula f1orou<1h: Tyonek Comrrnhensive Plan (SerteMher 197/).
'i-J: 'lci<inlev National Par__ls_, IJSDI, /\Iaski'! Plannin<1 Groun
l~nik -'\m Hinhway Crossing, Der<lrtment of Hi<1hways (Januarv 1972).
272
I I I. CROSS INDEX: LAND USE & LAND STATUS
']
I I I. CROSS INDEX: LAND USE & LAND STATUS
See GEOLOGY Section for:
Minerals Resources of Alaska and the Impact _q_f_F~_deral
Land Po I i ci es on TheIr Ava i I ab i I i t_y_;_ Coa I • 19
Geology and Coal Resources of the Bei~-Yentna Region. 25
See RECREATION Section for:
Hatcher Pass. 244
The T_alachul itna, A Wild and Scenic River Anal_y_si.s. 253
273
IV. PUBLISHED lt·JFOm·1ATION: LM·JD USE & LAND STATUS
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~1ap s:
Tables:
Description:
Development of New Lands in Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
I.JSIJI, Alaska Power Administration, February 1970.
A I I of t-1at-Su Aorouqh.
Interest Level 2.
Borour~h land with hiqh agricultural potential'·
(Sea I e; I "=I m i I e).
Land Ownership rnaps and I and c I ass if icati on maps for the
following areas: Palmer, Wasi I Ia, t~ontana-Sunshlne,
Horseshoe Flat area, (1"''=1 mile scale).
Potential Agricultural Lands -land tracts (shown on
agricultural potential map) estimated acres, averaqe
soi I depths, substratum, I ime needs and topography.
The report includes: introduction, Borough economy
oresent agriculture, a~ricultural potenti~ls,
actions meritinq early consideration, appendices,
I 1st of tables and fiqures. Some detail about
climate is Included for the soecial study areas of
Pa I mer, Was i I I a, r.,.,ontana-Sunsh i ne and Horseshoe
Flat.
274
-
Title:
l\rec1:
I nterP.st:
nesc r i pt ion:
70 C:omnos i t0. lhps Q_f_Resou_c_ce Over I ay rn I I oct ion, f""ln~nn n;rl
by Joint Federal-State Land llse f""llanninCl r:ommission,_ r~~snuru~
PI ann i nCl Teom. (I g73).
(Sea I e I :?.50, 000) •
Talkeetna, Talkeetnn t1ountoins, Tyonek and Anchora'le
USGS nuadran~les.
Interest Leve I I •
A summary descrihinn the information on each of the overlays
is avnilable at FSLUPC.
Information is presented on man overlays by ratinqs of
"potential" or quality", i.e. hiqh, medium or low notential
for various resources.
Avai labi I ity: Alaska Division of Lands I i~rary, or Joint Federal-State
Land Use Plannin~ Commission.
275
···~
Title:
Area:
Interest:
1'-1aps:
Description:
Availability
Preliminary Feasibi I ity Report, Point ~~acKenzi~ Seaport.
MatMuska-Susitnn Rorouqh PlanninrJ Deoartment, (Apri I 1/, 197/),
( I 03 p • >.
State priority area 3a (Point MacKenzie).
Interest Level 3.
I) (Proposed) Development Plan, MacKenzie Point RerJion
(1/2"=1 mile). Other minor statewide mans of lesser
qua I ity.
Advantages and potential industrial users of a Point
~-1acKenzie Seaport are summarized. Present Anchoraqe
facll ities and growth indicators are presented relative
to the need for another port facility. Natural resource
development potential (i.e. coal reserves) are discussed;
as are other nonmetal I ic metals such as I imestone, oetro-
leum. Forest products and metal I ic mineral potential of
the reqion are included. The Matanuska-Susitna Boroughs
economy, interior Alaska's potential, economics of
transportation tyoes, socioeconomic orojections of the
region, oceanoqraphic information, and a summary and
conclusions are included in the report.
The report is ava i I ab I e for check-out from the t~atanuska
Susitna Borough Planninq Department library.
276
Titln:
lntArest:
!lescrintion:
· ~aos and
lablns:
Point MC~cKnnzie Land lJsA Rnnort. t1ntnnuskn~Susitna florouf"lh
Planninfl r1Anartment, (October ICJ74), (li3fi p. illus.).
State Priori tv a rei'l 3i1 (Point r·.1acKAnZ i e) .
Interest Level 2.
The unfinished report was oreoared to provide data forth~
proposed port faci I ity and industrial development in the
Point r·1acKenz i e a rea.
These sections are included: justification of the nort,
industrial park nnd seaport, recommendations, oroposed land
usA pain, oroposed transoortation corridor wharf and dockinq
area, population and employment forecast, natural crossin(]
data, prooosed international airport, qeolooic soils and
foundation investiqations, estimated cost of oroject
development.
Maps are of generally poor quality, with no scale. They
represent, to a large deqree, proposed development plans.
Other tabulated information such as workforce estimates,
waqes, salaries, livestock and agricultural inventories
are of southcentral region or statewide focus.
Climatological data includes tables or graphs of the
fo II owing:
-Weather stations and basic wind oatterns
-320 F occurrences
-Temperature data
-Precipitation data
-Wind direction and velocity extremes
-Wind velocity by heiqht
Wind chi I I index
-Dayl iqht hours
-Elevation conversion factors
Tidal ranges at Anchorage
-Comparison of tide data
i1ost climate data is from established recording stations in
Palmer, Wasi I Ia, Anchorage, the Matanuska Experiment Station
and Elmendorf Air Force Base.
Availability: The report is available from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Planning Department Library.
277
Title:
Area:
Interest:
Solid \'laste f) I sposa I St~. Arct lc Env i ronmenta I
En11 i neers for ~~atanuska-Sus itna Rorough (Hay 13, 1977)
(40p. lllus.).
Entire Mat-Su Rorough.
Interest Leve I I .
Illustrations: I) ~1atanuska-Susitna Borough Population -Time 11rarh.
Description:
2) Mat-Su Borough Solid Waste Study site designation
mao ( no s ca I e ) •
3) Total cost to oubl ic for transportint1 oersonal aarbaqe
and wastes to nearest facility, not includinq: landfil I,
bulk transport, or site amortization costs. (Without
consideration of capital move.)
4) Same graph as above with capital move initiated in 1982.
5) Total Borough cost to amortize and operate solid waste
disposal system without caoital move.
6) Same as above with capital move.
7-10) Possible routes or approaches for each of four
impelementation programs.
The study report includes: introduction, schedule of
recommended improvements and cost estimates for these
improvements, scope of study, population study, land-
fi II reviel'l, solid waste production·, 12 plan alternatives,
imolementation programs of four plans, and discussion
of implementation pro11rams.
The contractor spent a considerable portion of study time
estimatinq future oopulation trends in the Mat-Su Borough
and developed a computer model to calculate the adjusted
population increase and distribution.
Each square mile of the Borouqh was assi11ned a growth factor,
from 0 to 6, with 4 beinq the avtraqe annual growth rate;
maximum population I imit for each square mile, based on
land usage and geographic limitations was computed.
A detail of pooulatlon by square miles, and for caoital
move years 1981 through 1987 is in Appendix A-1 and 8-2,
ava i I ab I e in the t·-1at-Su Borough offices or at Arctic
Environmental Engineers. The appendix is in the form of
computer printout that can overlay a mylar map of the Borough.
278
Title:
/\rea:
Interest:
~1ans:
Description:
Palmer Comnrehensive Develorment ..!:_I~Q.· P.omhoff and
Associ otes, Inc. updated for the j,1atanusko-Sus i tnn FbroufJh,
(1973), (80 p.).
PalMer.
Interest Level I.
I) Existinfl La.nd IJse (lcm=4,000 feet) .•
2) Pronosed Land Use (lcm=5,000 feet, anproxi~ately),
3) Commercial exoansion plan (no scale),
4) Prooosed industrial park (lcm=~,200 feot onproximately).
5) Four mans: Airoort develooment olan, Phose I I, Phase I I I,
and an Airport Master Plan.
6) Existing and oroposed pavinfl (lcm=5,000 feet, aooroxi-
mate I yJ.
7) Existing and orooosed water I ines (lcm=5,000 feet,
approximate I y).
8) Existin0 and oroposed sewer lines (lcm=5,000 feet.
approximate I y).
9) Community facilities plan (lcm=5,000 feet approximately).
The history of Palmer, 1917-1973 is included as a part of
the comprehensive olan.
Recommendations are given for strenqtheninq commercial,
industrial, residential and airport developMent plans.
Transportation and uti I ity systems in the citv are described
and suqgestions for development are made.
A cursory description of parks and recreational faci I ities,
and government bui ldinos is included.
The backqround for planninq includes a discusison of physio-
graphy and existing conditions.
Suggestions for subdivision reoulations and zoning are given:
the.· Borough's power to enact and enforce these requ I at ions is
briefly descrihed.
279
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
t-1aps:
Identification of Phenological Stages anrl Vegetntivo Types
for Land Use Classification: Fined Report. rkKendrick, J.D.,
Scorup, P.O., Mitchell, \'1.\-J. and Branton, I.C.; Institute
of Aqricultural Sciences, University of Alaska, Palmer.
Prep~red for: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA-?.1833 ERTS-1 Project I 10-7.); (July 26, 1974),
( 95 p. i I I us. ).
Test areas include: the Kenai Peninsula, t·~atanuska Valley,
Susitna Valley, and Bonanza Crnek Forest (near Fairbanks).
Interest Leve I I .
A total of 26 maps--most are color infrared remote sensinq,
high altitude or aerial views--are included in the text.
For purposes of this bibl ioqraphy, the Susitna and ~1atanuska
Valley maps are I isted as follows: (map scales are qiven if
avai fable.)
I) A reduction from I :40,000 scole color infrored qround
truth and a display of uncorrected classified data from
the Houston local itv.
2) A visual interpretation of vegetation types from ERTS of
the Anchorage and lower t·~at-Su Valley areas.
3) Spetzman 1 s vegetation map as interpreted by the Land Use
Planning Commission (black and white>. (Anchorage, r-1at-Su
vicinity.)
4) Aircraft ground truth manually interoreted, (lower Mat-Su
vicinity.)
5) Photo reductions of vegetation maos prepared by manually
transferring computer classified data, ERTS scenes onto
a base map via the Zoom Transfer System, (1"63,360 scale).
6) Four views of a 530 square mile portion of the r,1atanuska
Valley through the Zoom Transfer System (1"·250,000 base map).
7) Visual interpretation of vegetation types from ERTS
imagery superimposed on USGS base map.
8) A computer classified vegetation map showing 500 square
miles in the Mat Val ley; 10 colors corresoond to vegetation
types and water.
9) A false-color image if the t~at Valley; colors correspond
to infrared aerial photographs.
10) A photograoh of a 1:18,800 scale computer printer-plot mao
of the Matanuska Val ley. This is a symbol-coded vegetation map.
I I) A geometrically-corrected false-color image for an approx-
imately 500 square mile area in the Susitna Valley.
280
~~~~~~-.... ~---~---~--
Description:
A totdl of 19 !-ubles are included; a few of H1o rnost pertinenl
t~bles are I isted as follows:
I) Listing of 59 potential users of ERTS data for resource
management and development in Alaska.
2) Multispectral scanner (MSS) for 13 features identifiable
in ERTS data from the Matanuska Valley (August 1973); from
the Susitna Val ley (August 1972).
3) Classification accuracies by MSS bands for 13 features
from the Matanuska Val ley (August 1973); for eight features
from the Susitna Val ley (August 1972).
Features are as follows: clear water, silty water, tundra,
alder and grain fields, scrubby spruce, commercial spruce,
mixed forest, deciduous forest, base ground rock (north
and south slope), wetlands and grass.
4) MSS classification accuracy percentages for similar
features for Susitna Val ley Area (August 1972). Features
are clear water, silty water, wetlands, scrubby spruce,
deciduous forest and alder.
This project was developed to apply ERTS-1 sensing technology
to the mapping of natural vegetation types and to observing
of "green wave" phenomenon (vegetation phenology). Test
areas were the Kenai Peninsula, the Matanuska Val ley and the
Susitna Val ley. The objectives related directly to identifying
and locating lands suitable for agricultural development.
Vegetation types were mapped at accuracies of 66% to 99% by
automated processing of multispectral scanner (MSS) digital
data for the Homer, Pal~er, Petersvil le, and Bonanaza Creek
forest areas.
The methodology is described in accordance with the
chronological approach taken by the researchers to a) analyze
imagery, b) the problems encountered in relating data to
specific ground truth, c) computer analysis of data, d) use
of a Zoom transfer Scope to aid their work and e) adapting
frequency distributions. The chronological account of the
project concludes that the researchers developed a "relatively
efficient procedure for mapping Alaskan vegetation types."
The selection of data format, the method of correlating
ground truth to the ERTS data and the production of useful
"hard copy" products are discussed.
The results of the test data are described for each geographic
area, including the success of the test project for future
application.
281
J
~~)
f1escrirtion:
(cont)
Report conclusions include cnlculatnd cor:.tr:. for nrorlur.ir'''
camer~-ready, fully colored ve~eti3tion mans anrl false r.nlnr
diCJital prints. Recommend<'ltions for furthnr tJ"J' of thr;
data are r]iven. The ronort Fllso inr::ludw; n I ist ()f !JtJt,l i-
cations, referencos and ocknowlnd~oMents.
Avai labi I ltv: The ori(]inal text, mans, false-color and color-codnrl
thematic maos from din itn I data r1rc on f i I r~ with thr~
Institute of 1\qriculturnl Sciences, IJniverstiv nf Alar;v;1,
P.n. Rox AF. PalMer, Alaskn 00o45.
Copies of text (no mi'3flS) are on file \'lith the r1atrJnu"'.Vi1
Sus i tna RorouCJh.
282
V. ONGOING PROJECTS: LANfJ USE & LAND STATUS
Project ( s):
Contact
Area:
IJescription:
Lanrl IJisposals/Ciassification Cases-Susitna Summary.
Southcentral IJ!strict, IJivision of Land & Water
Hanagerr~ent.
Classification Section, Division of Land & Water
Managerr~ent.
Various areas I isted, alI within Susitna River Basin.
Because of the number of pendino activities related to
land disposals by sale and lease, retention for multiole
use management, reservation for recreation areas, a~ricultural
lands, and other types of classification actions, this
analysis is only an attemnt to list locations of pending
classification actions.
Further information regarding exact action, area,
status, etc. should be obtained from the appropriate
land officers, and/or land planning report
Cases pending in the Susitna River Basin include the
fol lowi nq:
I ) Borough-State three-way trade which wou I d tentative I y
involve the following locations/ agencies·
-Knik School Site 80 acres, possibly 120 acres to the
~1atanuska-Sus i tna Borough for schoo I I ands (nresentl y
State-owned) .
-160 acres adjacent to the Palmer Plant Materials Center
to the Division of Agriculture for possible expansion.
(Presently Borough-owned).
-South of Nancy Lake, suitable for recreation-residential
development; to the State (Division of Land and Water Manage-
ment).
2) Eska. Preference rights have been granted to five and
possibly more people. The State wi I I adhere to Borough
standards in laying out a subdivision for these five
homesites.
3) Skwentna Federal Aviation Administration station to be
considered as a Skwentna School.
4) Talkeetna area agricultural classification. Classification
is delayed at least one year pending timber evaluation to
take place this winter (1977-78). Timber sale may precede
agricultural classification.
283
Description:
(cont)
Status:
Duration:
Agricultur~ classification actions are susnenrl~rl in thn
Kashwitna area anrl near Susitnn Station. Another aren nn'lr
Shrock Road is consirlererl for an agricultural clnssi
fication.
5) Cheri Lake subdivision and Shrock ~oad subdivision;
pending clarification and interprctntion of State lease-
land law.
6) f3eluqa area, resource manaqement action.
7) Matanuska-Knik River area, resource management action.
8) Cook Inlet Trade. To assist parties involved in the
Cook In I et Land Trade, a comp I ex three-way exchanfle of
Iaroe plots in the Susitna Rasin and on the Kenai Peninsula,
a brief synopsis of the agreemen~ has been prepared.
Official maps used in the Land Trade Negotiations arc on
file with the Division of Land and Water Management.
Title Administrator (1"=1 mile scale). The State-FAderai-
Cook Inlet Land trade in the Susitna Rasin includes plots in
these areas:
The vicinity of Point t'lacKenzie, Knik, Kashwitna, Chickaloon,
and the Beluga area.
For detailed information contact the fol lowinq:
Sue Wolf, Bureau of Land Management
Carl Mars, Chief of Lands, Cook Inlet Region
Ron Swanson, Title Administrator, Department of Natural
Resources.
Many of the above classification actions wi I I occur in the
next 18 months.
Ongoing. Classification actions occur constantly. This
Summary is by no means meant to be al !-inclusive of actions
within the Susitna Basin.
284
----------------
J
rroj ect:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status~
Duration:
_)
~1t. ~1cKinley Cooper"tive Plannin'l and f1anaqemFmt Study.
Pau I Steucke
Land Use PlanninCJ Cot"lmission (LLJPC)
733 West 4th Avenue, Suite 400
Anchorage, Alaska 99501.
Talkeetna sub-basin.
In October 1974, a cooperative planninq effort was
initiated by the LUPC involving private landowners,
Native corporations, the Matanuska-Susitna Borouqh,
State and Federal aqencies. The cooperative management
zone on the lands south and east of Mt. McKinley involves
important foreqround and threshold lands to the national
park.
Col"lmittees on land use, nonrenewable resources, renewable
resources, and recreation, met several til"les often with
participatin'l private individuals to discuss and oreoare ,
background information, concepts and maps for use in
preparing the area olan.
Public meetings were held in Februarv and Apri I 1975 at
Trapper Creek, Cantwel I, Healy, Anchorage and near Healy,
Talkeetna and Fairba~ks.
Extensive information comp i I ed for the r~t. HcKi n I ey
Cooperative Planning and ~~anaqement Committee is on file
at the LUPC offices, including reports identifyinC'] concerns,
problems and conflicts that have resulted or mav result
from land use activities in the area, and land use maps.
The cooperative planninq project has been terminated.
October 1974 through 1975.
285
<~ont:1ct:
[lese r i ot ion:
Status:
Duration:
Al~sk~ roast~! Zone Atl~s.
rlannino and f~esoarch Section; Oep~rtment of N~tur~l Resources
3/3 Fast 4th AvenuA; Anchoraqe, Alaska; /79-5577.
Tho Atlas includes a total of 9o quadranole maps; the
Tyonek and Anchoraqe Ouadranqos are pertinent to the Susitna
~iver basin study area.
The Atlas is composed of a series of three overlays, each
showinq resource uses and jurisdiction boundaries. These
are ~s follows:
Land Status -I) Federal lands; includinq oark, forest,
monument and wildlife refuqe boundaries. 2) State lands:
including parks, qarne refuqes, qame sanctuary, recreation
areas, critical habitat, tentatively aooroved/patented land
boundaries. 3) Borouqh/City lands -Borough boundaries,
city boundaries, manaqement riohts, and tideland patents.
4) Private Lands: lntPrirn rnnw>vanrP (!1at8ntGd) and tido-
land patents.
Subsurface Use -I) Uplands; including houndaries of permits
(coal), leases (coal and oi I), mininCJ claims, riqhts-of-way
and classification (oil and qas). 2) Tidelands; permits
(offshore orospectinq), leases (oi I and qas), and class-
ifications (oil and gas).
Surface Use -I) Uplands: includinq oermits leases, public
interest lands, and classified lands. 2) Tidelands with
permits, leases and classifications.
AI I of the above information is mapoed at I :250,000 scale
suitable for overlayinq U.S. Geoloqical Survey quadrangles.
The Coastal Zone Atlas is near completion (October 1977) and
four color cooies and numerous black cooies wi I I be published
for distribution.
February through November 1977.
286
climate
Section IX
I • I NmnntJCT InN & SLJ~-111Ar~Y
I I • I ~~nE:-<
I I I. CROSS INDFX
IV. PllRLISHFD INFnm1ATIO~!
V. IJf\IGOING PROJECTS
(J
287
r~i'.l~
?.FW
2'J()
291
7.()2
3()0
I • I NTRODUCT I ON & Sl Jt-1~1ARY: C L I tJlA TE
I. INTRODUCTION & SlJ~.1~1ARY: Cllt~ATF
Climate--the ~veraoe weather of an area--is a basic natural resource
th~t affects and I imits many of man's activities. An understandin~ of this
multi-faceted influence is essential in planning for the best use of an
area.
In Alaska, most weather record responsibility has been taken by the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National
\'leather Service, both agencies within the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Unti I 1973, the National \'leather Service funded a state cl imatoloqist;
now however, the state cl imatoloqist is part of the Arctic Environmental
Information and Data Center (AEIDC) where most weather records for the
state are maintained. AEIDC serves as a depository for information
provided by National \1eather Service stations.
The Alaska State Cl imatoloqist maintains detailed records of precipitation,
maximum-minimum tenperature, snowfal I and snow depth data provided by a
network of "cooperative observers'' throughout A I aska.
A number of other agencies maintain climate ~ata, but usually for specialized
requirements within their disci PI lne. These include the Forest Service, Sol I
Conservation Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and
Geological Survey. Of special relevance are the Sol I Conservation Service's
snow depth and streamflow forecast surveys. The Alaska Agricultural Experiment
Station conducts a continuing basic and applied research proqram including a
considerable amount of climatic data in connection with various agriculture
related research projects.
Military stations are also maintained by the Scientific Service Office of
the Air Force. \1ind data are generallly the by-product of these aviation
weather observations, and were not considered as part of this information
gathering effort.
Summary of Findings. A review of information collected reveals that oreci-
oitation, local wind, elements of temperature and sunshine data lead the
list of cl imatoloqic data recorded and analyzed in detail.
Normals, means, extremes and most parameters of weather have been recorded,
or may be synthesized from available information depending uoon need.
The fol lowinq type of information assists in defining growing season in
the ~~at-Su Va II ey. This type of c I i mato I og i ca I data may be usefu I in
assessinq the agricultural potential of the Susitna Valley:
-Soil temperature
-Heating and coolinn degree days
-Growing degree days
-Cloudiness
-Day lenqth on the basis of latitude
288
Such torics as drouqht, evaporation and solar radiation have hRen analy?~d in
a more cursory manner.
Future nrojects wil I include solar enerqy related research, continuin~ air
qual ltv monitorinq proqrams, and the expansion of weather observation stations.
AI I of the of the climate information is I imited, not hy historic record. hut
more by distribution within thA vast Susitna Basin. f~ecords, in some ins.tances.
nre-date this century. In qeneral, weather records for precinitation and
temnerature are continous from the 1940s. \'l'eather recordinq stations
however, are few and far between.
Index. The title of pub! ications included in this section of the bib! ioqraphy
are I isted to assist the user in scanninq the information collected.
Cross Index. ReiAvant material not included in the Climate Section, but
described in other sections of thifc3 bib! ioqranhy are referenced in this
cross index. These reports include discussions on climate, but primary
focus is on some other resource topic.
289
-J
-)
II. lt·JDEX: CLU·1ATF:
II. INDEX: CLIMAH_
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Local Climatological Data.
2. Snow Surveys and Water Supply Outlook for Alaska.
3. Climatic Characteristics of Selected Alaskan Locations.
4. Potential Evapotranspiration and Climate in Alaska.
5. A Summary of Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation Data for the
Interior Forested Area of Alaska.
6. Probable Maximum Precipitation and Rainfal !-Frequency Data for Alaska,
for Areas to 400 Square Miles, Durations to 24 Hours and Return Periods
From I to 100 Years.
7. The Climate of the Matanuska Val ley.
8. Ten Year Comprehensive Plan for Climatologic and Hydrologic Data.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. Record of River and Climatological Observations.
2. Weather Sate! I ite.
3. Air Quality Control Plan Revision.
4. Solar Energy Meterology.
290
=
-----------------~·------
I I I. CROSS INDEX: CL lr-1ATE
~----------------------------~----------------
Ill. CI~OSS H~f)t-:X: CL1t1ATE
See GEOLOGY Section:
Geology and Ore Deposits of thA Willow CreAk Mininn nistrict. 41
See LAND USE/LANO STATUS Section:
Point f·.1acKenzie Land Use Report. 277
See SOIL Section:
Soi I Survey: Susitna Val lev Area. 187
Soil Survey: 1·1atanuska Valley /\rea. 189
See VEGETATIOH Section:
Alaska's Agricultural Potential. 204
291
-)
IV. PUBLISHED INFnRHATinN: CLHlATE
-) Title:
Area:
Interest:
Oeser i pti on:
Local Cl imatolonlcal Data (Summary of data sheets from
IT.s. Weather Rureau un~ubl ishad files.)
Susitnn Valley.
Interest Leve I I .
Annual climatological summaries with comparative data; tables
give monthly and annual readings for the following:
I) Normals, means and extremes.
2) Current year meteorological data.
3) Averaqe temperature (annual summary since records have
been kept).
4) Precipitation (annual summary).
5) Heating Degree Days (1956-1977).
6) Cool Inn Deqree Days (1969-1977).
7) Snowfa I I ( 1940' s-1977).
The above detailed climatological summaries are for Talkeetna
Summit, Anchoraqe, Matanuska, Palmer and Tyonek.
Additional suoplemental data for other areas in the Mat-Su
basins includes: wind, relative humidity averaqes, numher
of days with precipitation, monthly and daily precipitation,
daily temperatures, daily soil temoeratures, snowfal I, snow
on ground, and index to alI stations with recorded
information.
292
r i t 1 <~:
'\,scr i oti on:
Snow Survnys and 11/nter Supp I y nut I nok for A I aski'l.
(Summarv of e1ll hullotins) IJSDA, Soi I r.onsorvatinn
Stntewido.
Interest Lovol 7..
Snow depth and stree1mflow forecasts in drainaqe basins
nnd/or snow courses have been made in r1orch and Ar>r i I
since lgfi3. MeasureMents hovn been made throe times
annually, in March, Apri I and May since 19fi5; measurements
four times annui'lll y --February, r-1arch, Apri I and r'-'lay
have been made since lg73.
Snow courses in the '1atanuska-Sus itna dra i naqes are at the
tal lowinq locations:
/\I exander Lake
Bald r1t. Lake
Che I atna I a ko
Clearwater Lake
Dev i I 's Can von
Foq Lakes 112
I ndeoendence ~1i ne
Lake Lou i se
r1onahan Flat
Oshetna Lake
Peters Hi I I c;
Sheeo r·1ounta in #2
Skwentna
Ta I keetna
\•li I low Airstrio
Avai labi I itv: Copies of alI snow survey bul latins are on file with the
Soil Conservation Service.
293
-·-···--·-.. -----
-")
. ···') Title:
Area:
Interest:
nescription:
)
Climatic Characteristics of Selected Alasknn Locations •
University of Alaska, Institute of Aqricultural Sciences,
Tech. Rull. ~lo. 2, (August 1971 ), (56 p. ).
Statewide (data appl icahle to Susitna Rasin).
Interest Level I.
Climatic data are presented In a series of tables and charts
as explained below.
I) Cumulative hours of possible sunshine on the basis of
latitude for any location between 50° and 72° No. Latitude.
2) Heatinq deqree days for two temoerature levels-''Oeqree
Days 65°" and "Degree Days 35°" ar~ tabulated.
3) The third table provides details concerning the duration
of warmth needed in the tabulation of "Growinq Deqree
Days". This table also provides mean weekly cumulative
data on precipitation.
4) The need for a we I I defined ''qrow i nq season" is vita I
to aqriculture. Therefore, the average number of days that
the temperature remains above 20°, 24 ,28° and 32° at
specific locations is shown.
5) Other tables show the mean deviations of days from the
averaqe dates for (last) sprinq and (first) autumn occurrence.
Stations within the Susitna Basin evaluated for alI the above
mentioned parameters inc I ude t-~atanuska and Ta I keetna.
294
Tit It~:
Area:
Interest:
Descriotion:
Potential Evapotr?nspiration and Cl imat0 in Alaska hy
Thornwaite's Classification. USOA, Forest ~ervicn Research
raoer PN\'1-71 ,-( 196R) (~8 n. ).
Statewide.
Interest Level 3.
Climatic records for 315 stations in Alaska, varvin~ in
lenqth from I year to about 100 years, were manually
coMputed or processed in a computer program. \~ater
balances, temperature and precipitation data were uti I ized
for classifyinq climates.
\vater avai labi I ity (precipitation) is compared with water
need. Where precipitation exceeds water need, the climate
is arid. Indices of humidity and aridity are expressed
as percentaqes, and alI data are presented in tabular
form.
295
-J Title:
Area:
Interest:
Description:
A Summary of Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation
Data for the Interior Forested Area of Alaska.
Funisch, R.W.: USDA, Northern Forest Fxneriment Station
NOR-9, <December 1964), (50 p.).
Southcentral and Interior Alaska.
Interest Level 2.
Information on mean qrowinq season temoeratures and
precipitation, and the maqnitude of departure from these
means, is presented in tabular form. Data are baserl on
16 years of record, 1946 throuqh 1961, summarized from U.S.
\'Jeather Bureau records of 27. wenther stnt ions.
Stations included in the summary lyinq within the Susitna
River Basin are as follows: ~1atanuska Aqricultural Experiment
Station, Skwentna, and Talkeetna.
296
Title:
Area:
I ntnrest:
nescrintion:
Probable t1axim~m_rreciJ?J.!.~tion and R_ainfaii-Fre~ncy
Or1tn For A Iasko, _i_o.2:_ arer1s to~IJO S(]uam t1i les,_j)urations
to ~4 Hours and Return Periods from I to 100 years.
!J.S. \•Jeather Bureau, Technical Parer ~b. 47 (196~),
(6() r. illus.).
Interest Level 3.
AI I Maps are State mars at a scale of aporoximately
1/::'."=100 Miles.
The report was nrepared for the Soi I Conservation Service
to orovide (jenera! ized rainfall information. The data
consists of qeneral ized estimates of I) probable maximum
precioitation, and 2) rainfal I -intensity -frequency
data for return oeriods from I to 100 vears. The results
have a relatively low de()ree of accuracy coMpared with
data presently avai !able.
297
Title: The Climate of the f~atanuska Valley. U.S. \'leather f3ureau,
Technical Paper No. 27, (1956).
Area: Matanuska Val ley.
Interest: Interest Level 3.
Descriotion: This study was based primarily on records of nine weather
stations in the val ley. General qeoqranhical and climatic
factors are briefly described. More detailed discussions
follow on temperature, orecinitation, drought, evaporation,
cloudiness, solar radiation and day lenqth, local winds,
and eo I ian so i I deposIts.
Availability: National Weather Bureau or I ibraries.
298
Title:
Area:
Interest:
~·1ap s:
Description:
Ten Year Comprehensive Plan for Climatologic and ~:fyctroloqic_
Data. lnter-AC")ency Technical Commltt~e for Alflskn, (AuC")ust
1967).
Statewid~.
Interest Leve I I •
AI I mars statewide, indicating locations of cl imatoloqical
and hydrologic stations or data sites.
AI I existinq (as of date of publication) cl imatoloqical
programs are I isted in tabular form for every station
in the State. AI I the existing surface water data collected
at 125 reqular hydrologic stations, 92 crest-staqe qauqes,
and lake-staqe station are tabulated. Sediment, water
quality and pol Iutton control water stations are I isted,
(this includes Air Force potable water sampl inq sites).
Groundwater data in 1966 consisted of 79 observation wells
13 of which were equipred with automatic recorders. The snow
survey program and the type of data gathered are analyzed.
Soil moisture and temperature stations were proposed for the
Matanuska-Susitna watersheds.
Other program summaries include: glacier studies, tidal
estuaries and the continental shelf, centralized data control,
and instrumentation and data collection programs.
299
V • ONGO I NG PROJECTS: C Ll t~A TE
-~
--} Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
Status:
Duration:
Record of River and Cl imatolo~ical Observations.
Tom Bowers or Dave Street; National Weather Service;
Anchora~e 265-5561.
State Priority area I.
The National Weather Service collects daily data on the
height of the rivers and 24 hour orecipitation readings from
observers. Continuous records vary somewhat from different
observers but the follmlinq rivers have heen monitored:
I) 1'/iiiO\v Creek (at the hiqhway): August, 1973-present
-Daily gauge readings of river height/relative to time
-24 hour precipitation reading
2) Montana Creek: August 1973 -Present
-Daily gauge readings (low-flow readings not available)
Daily river stage readings for the oast 4 or 5 years from
the following rivers:
3) Little Susitna River near Palmer (Stage hydrographs
a va i I a b I e ) •
4) Matanuska River near Palmer (Stage Hydrographs avai lahle).
Compilation of hydrologic data summary is in progress
Ongoing.
300
t ~n n t ;K t :
i\rPi"l:
:1nscr i pt ion:
Stntus:
nuration:
Weather Sate I I ito.
Nationnl Climatic Center; Federal nul I din~; Ashevi I le,
~~orth Coro I i ni"i 2RRO I: (704) 7.58-7.850.
Statewide.
Satel I ite imaqery taken from the NOAA 5 Resolution
Sate I I ite is avai loblc for Alaska. The imi'lqery may
he usc>ful in studyintl the set1uence of events of soecific
occurrences, such ns outburst lake or sprinn floodinq due
to ice jams. lmnqery is not as detailed as LANDSAT, but
may be heloful in studyintl naturnl occurrences.
Continuous.
1974 -present.
301
J
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Descr i ot ion:
Status:
Duration:
J
Air Oual ity r~ntrol Plan Revision.
Thomas Hanna, Air Qual lty Control Supervisor
Tim Gilmore, Air Oual lty Control Engineer
Department of Environmental Conservation
Pouch 0
Juneau, Alaska 9981 I; 465-2631 or 465-2629.
Statewide; urban centers.
The Air Quality Control Program is responsible for
insuring desirable air quality throughout the State.
The Statewide Air Quality Control Plan is to be updated.
This plan wi II describe:
I) Possible actions by local air pollution control programs,
the State, the Federal government, and communities for
reducinq carbon monoxide levels in Anchoraqe and Fairbanks.
2) Revised Air Oual ity Control requlations to insure
that new air contaminant emmission sources wi I I be
adequately control led to maintain desirable air quality.
3) An effective air monitoring network and analysis
caoabil ity which wit I accurately and effectively measure
Alaskan air quality.
4) An inspection and surveil lance program to ensure existing
sources wil I continue to be wei I control led.
5) A mechanism to ensure that existing noncomplying sources
comply with regulations.
Unknown.
Initiated in the Summer of 1976.
Completion of plan update--early 1977.
302
Pro.iP.ct:
Contact:
Area:
nescr i pt ion:
Status:
Duration:
Solar Energy Meteroloqy.
Jim Wise, State Ci imatoloqlst; Arctic Environmental
Information Data Center; 707 A Street; Anchorane;
27q-4523.
Statewlrle.
A new study on solar energy Is olanned which wl I I
Include planning for solar energy collection, and
studying amount of solar energy on lncl lne surfaces.
The program Is designed to evaluate (and establish)
research and training sites for solar enerqy meteroloqy.
The program is funded by the Enerqy Research and
Development Administration (ERDA).
Unknown.
October 1977, Is the start uo date; completion date is
unknown.
303
)
miscellaneous
references
Section X
CONTENTS: lv11 SCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY 3()5
II. INDEX 306
I II. PURLISHED INFORMATI0N 307
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS 314
~~)
304
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
']
I. INTRODUCTION & SUMMARY: MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES.
Reference sources used in the course of this information search are
I isted in this section. Some of these sources are updated annually, and
new editions may prove helpful in any future update of this bibliography.
In addition, the miscellaneous information that did not fit th? other
established subject categories are located in this section of the resource
bibliography. As socio-economic information was not included as a
resource subject because the data search was focused on natural resources,
the collected socio-economic references are included in this section.
305
~-
I I. INDEX: MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
I I . INDEX: MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
PUBLISHED INFORMATION
I. Other Bib I iographies/References.
2. Evaluation of Feasibi I ity of Mapping Seismically Active Faults
in A I aska.
3. Matanuska-Borough 1976 Census.
4. Clean Energy From Alaskan Coals.
5. Aerial Photography Available from North Pacific Aerial Surveys.
ONGOING PROJECTS
I. I ANnSAT lmRoAry Anrl Arrl irAtinns in Alaska.
2. Matanuska Electric Association I 15 KV Transmission Line.
3. Catography on the Northern Approaches to Mt. McKinley.
306
/)
Ill . PURL I SHED I NFORr-MT ION: ~-'1 I SCELLANEOUS REFERn.JCES
)
OTHER BIRLIOGRAPHIES/REFERENCES
Recreation and Scenic Resources in Alaska: An Annototed Rib I ioqraphy.
Pacific N.W. Forest and Ranqe Exoeriment Station USOA Forest
Service, General Technical Report PNW-50. (73 p.)
Availabil tty: Alaska Division of Lands CAOL) I ibrary.
Research-i n-Prooress; A Campi I at ion of Research Pro.i ect Current I y Be i n0
Conducted by Alaska's State Agencies.
Leqislative Affairs Agency, January 1977.
Orqanized by subject, the reoort provides a synopsis of nro,iects, completion
dates, fundinq and principal contacts.
USGS Bibliography of the Literature through 1960 on groundwater in permafrost
regions.
July 15, 1963; revised version beinq considered; includes a glossary
of tems.
Ecoclass-A method for Classlfylnq Ec.:osyslerns.
USDA Forest Service, INT t.1issoula FSL, January 18, 1973
A Task Force Analysis.
Ecosym -Progress Report I •
A classification and information system for management and wildland
ecosystems: The Conceptual Framework.
Prepared by Lawrence David, Oept. of Forestry and Outdoor Recreation.
Utah State University, Logan, Utah 843~2.
Bibi I iogranhy of Arctic Water Resources.
Institute of Water Resources, University of Alaska, Colleqe, Alaska
Hartman, Charles and Caroson, Robert, (~ovember 1970),
Reoort No IWR-1 I.
Availability: AOL Library.
Alaska State and Local Publ !cations Rece_!_ved_i_n 1976, (also available for 1975
and a compiled summary of 1964-74 publ ications•>
Organized by state and local agencies. Division of r·~useums and
Libraries, Juneau.
The Cook Inlet Environment: A Background Study of Available Knowledge.
Alaska District, Corps of Engineers (August 1972).
Available: ADL library;
Report is designed to provide a basis for environmental imoact
statements for activities relating to the exoloration, develooment
and production of petroleum in Cook Inlet.
~L~t of Reports Issued by the Division of Geological and Geophysical
Surveys.
Information Circular II, (Revised October 15, 1976), (16 o.).
307
l~e,""ll0!lic lvater Surply Rerorts nnrl t1i'lrs, Alnskn.
liSGS U1nrch I C17n), ( 74 fl. ) .
~l~skan Reports in Open Fi Ins.
t!SGS COAceMber 30, ICJ7n), (44 n.).
Also list of USGS OoPn Files, 9 oaQe xerox.
List of Publications, Institute of Social and Economic Resenrch,
tlniversity of Alnska (AU'lUSt 1976), ( 8 p. rhamphlet).
Includes I istina of nl I four of thA lnstitute 1 s ruhl ication
sArles: The Alaska Revie1v of f1usiness and Economic Conditions,
ISFR Reoorts, Occasional rapers, and Research Notes.
Env i ronmAnta I Assessment of \\later Oua I i tv r1anaqement PI ans.
U.S. Environmental Protection Aqency, (January 1977).
\·later Pollution in Estuaries and Coastal Zones. A Bibl iograohy with
Abstracts.
Volume 2, 1975, September 1976. (Search period covered: 1964-
SeuleilllH:JI 197(j), tHIS, U.S. DeJJdl lrne11l ur Curruner~.;e/PS-76/01352.
A Review of the Geo I og i ca I and ReI a ted Literature of A I aska.
Sharick, '.•!i II lam; USDI National Park Service, Alaska Task
Force, (Auqust 1972), (5 p.).
Annotated i3 i b I i 09.!:_a_e_h_y_of A I a skan Geo loq i ca I , Hydro log i ca I,
Pedological and Cl irnatoloQical Literature.
Sharick, W.; USDI NPS, Alaska Task Force, (Auqust 1972).
Sections: Bedrock, Climate, Fossi Is, General Geoloqy, Glacial
Features, Hydroloqy, r1aps (General Geolof!ic), r1inerals, Permafrost
Soi Is, Tectionics, Volcanics.
Ribl ioqranhy of Community Planning.
Office of the Governor, Division of Planninq and Research, (July 1973).
Current Research Profile for Alaska.
/\EIDC, 1977.
Organized by research subjects.Project locations are qiven.
1976 and 1975 profiles are orgainzed by qeoqraphic re11ion.
Project descriotion, contact person, telephone number, aqency and
duration of research project are ~iven.
Bib I iograohy of A I aska Coasta I 11anagement Data Products.
DepartMent of Natural Resources, Planninq and Research Section,
(1977), (preliminary I isting).
Bureau of 11ines Publications on Alaska 1911-1976.
LJSDI Bureau of t~ines, Alaska Field Operatio-n Center (September 1976)
(47p.).
Lists all Bureau of r~ine publications by "types'' of oubl ications;
i.e. bulletins, ooen files, reoorts of investiqation, etc.; includes
reports in preparation
Avai labi I ity: Available from the Alaska Resources I ihrary.
308
J
J
Coal Ribl io~raphy for Alaska.
Lyle, Wi II iam; DGGS Alaska Open File #41.
A Land Use and Land Cover Classification System for IJse \'lith Remote
Sensor Data.
Anderson, J.R., Hardy, E.E., Roach, J.T. and \'litmer, R.E.;
U.S. Geoloqical Survey Professional Paper 964, (1976); (28·p. if Ius.).
A revision of the land use classification system as presented in
ll.S. Geolo(jical Survey Circular 671.
Alaska Reqional Profiles.
Selkreqg, Lidia L. (ed.): Arctic Environmental Information and Data
Center (1976).
Continental Shelf Development: A Ribl iography Background for Alaska.
Alaska Department of Education, Division of State Libraries and
fv1useums ( 1977).
Volume I -Entries by topical headinqs.
Volume I I -Subject, author and title indices •.
309
Title:
Area:
I ntercst:
Oeser i pt ion:
Evaluation of Feasibi I ity of r~iniJ Seismically Active_
Faults in Alaska. Gedney, L.n. and Vanh'ormes, J .r.;
Geonhysical Institute, University of /\Iaska,
(January 25, 1974), (34 p. illus.).
Statewide.
Interest Level I.
Through the use of ERTS-1 imagery, the renort concludes
that most earthquakes in Alaska can he associated with
lineaments (suspected faults) which are visible on the
imaqery. The ootential siqnificance of this in terms
of construction planninq zoninq, and seisMic risk
evaluation is obvious.
Previously uncharted I ineaments are comoared with
seisMic activity. Several of these are in the Susitna
Rasin.
This project applies to present efforts of tectonic
mappinq and seismic risk evaluation-both important
in future planninq as the state develoos.
310
J
Title:
Area:
Interest:
f'-1ap s:
Tables:
Description:
~,1atan uska-Fb!-ough 1976 Census. t1atanuska-Sus i tni'l
Rorouqh PI ann i nfl Department, Wecemher I 97o).
Mat-Su Rorouqh.
Interest Level 2.
I) ~1atanuska-Susitna Rorough Precinct r·~ao (9"=25 miles).
2) Fire Service Aren r.1ap (no scale) shows Rutte, Palmer,
Sutton, and \!>Jasi II a area populations.
3) Mat-Su Borough population and households by precinct,
fire service area and city.
4) Summary of population; location of emnloyment and members
of household; 1970, 1973, and 1976.
5) Population increase by general aqe qroun, 1970-76.
6) Precinct Pooulation by aqe.
7) Number of employed residents within the r.1at-Su Borough
and location of employment by orecinct and city.
8) (Graph) Number of emoloyed location of employment (1970,
1 73 and 176).
9) Households: Time in Rorouqh and time at address by
precinct.
10) Borough: Population history and population projections
through 1986 (graph).
I I) Population and related indices by year.
Past published population fiqures and sources.
12) Assembly district population.
13) Mat-Su Borough Census form.
Preceeding the maos, tables and graphs is an explanation of
the methodology used, past census, geographical census
divisions, and summary of results.
311
Title:
1~os:
T"lhles:
')escrintion:
Cleon r::nerClv f-rom 1\laskon Coals. Stanford Pesenrch
Institute, !1r8!1i1n~d fo,.::-th8i~~. r:nertlV !<esnarch
~nd ~)(wolorrnent /\clmini~;tration --1-ossi I rnertlV,
under contr<lct !Jo. !~ (4'1-1~) 1516. (Janllnry lr)7G),
<:? 1 t1. r . i 1 1 u" . >
Stnte rrioritv arons 4n nnd 1\h Gnlu11a and Chuitna Coal arens.
Interest Level 2.
I) RelurJ?l Coal f{oserves of Southcentrnl /\Iaska: location
rna n ( I · = I 5 rn i I e) .
2) To!1orJrcwhic :lap of the Shuitna /\rea <lln··=5,000 feet).
3) Chuitna /\rea: structural contours on top of the Caprs
SeaM ( I I /2 '=5 ')0() feet) .
4) Chuitna Area: structural contours on ton of the ''later-
fa I I Sedrtl ( I I /2 ··='3, ,-lt)O feet) .
5) Chuitn.J An~i'l: Interval hetween Canos and \·vaterfall
Seam.
6) Chuitnn Area: lsooacs on total stri11pable coal
(I I /2"=5 .'!')0 feet).
The sa~e five mans as I isted above. are ~iven for the Caoos
area. rlurnerous other illustrations, includinC1 nort and
transnortation alternntives, renional Mao of Cook Inlet and
other coal oroducinrJ nreas are included. (42 Mans total).
/\total of 66 tahles are included. r1ost are of technical
nature with reqard to costs, enernv consumption, canital
investMent and nrocessinn of the solvent refined coal.
The report nresents the results of a nroject to determine
the economic feasihi I ltv of oreratinCl an Alaskan coal conversion
faci I ity thi'!t would 11ti I ize the Reluqa coal reserves.
Central to studv Wi'!S the nossibi I ity of obtaininq additional
enerqv from Alaskan coal, nnd need for examination of
Major technicnl orohleMs facinq develoornent of coal
nronerties and synthetic fuel industries
For the mininCl, coal conversion, and transoortation analyses,
the equioment needed for the oneration is outlined and cost
estimates oreoared. The coal mine investment is not included
with the coal conversion Plant investment because ownershin
of the resource varies.
312
i)escr inti on:
(cont)
The second nh~sn of thn renort rnl~tns to thn fn~sihi I itv
of open-nit mininrJ of nhout 7.() mi II ion ton'> of ')IJbhitiJminow,
coa I ner ve?lr us i n'l the ne IWFl fin Ids. Inc luderl in th i'>
snction i'lre the followin11 rlescrintions: I l locntion,
access and transnortntion· :n nhvsicnl fe<'ltures, cl imntn
and veoetntion 3) <Jiacial debris, volcnnic cnnnin'l, the
1\eni'li Formation i'lnd structure: 4) coni zon8s, coni nunl itv.
C'lnd coal reserves; 5) the minin'l nlnn nnalvsis inclurlw;
construction, operation, reclamation, minin'l nr]uinment, mine
staffinr], mine equioment denreciation and minino cost vnriations.
Th8 third section describes the solvent refined coni (S~Cl
nrocess. This orocess is rlesi(]ned to nroduce a clean solid
or I iquid fuel that has sinnificantlv lower sulfur and ash
content and hi<1her hentin0 value tllnn the feed coal.
ObjectivAs of the economic evaluations concr:rninq the trans-
nortation and distribution include: I) examination of
nltornntive nort site!J: 2) c~xominntion of altt'.:rt11'lliv~1
SRC nlant sites: 3) various methods of transnortinfl coal
to the olant; 4) examination of shin tvnes and sizes;
5) canital and annual oneratinq costs: and 6) ocean
shioointl costs to Jaoan and California.
The feasihi I itv of marketinq Beluqa coal or SRC in Cali-
fornia and Japan is presented in senaratc chanters.
Aooendices to the renort include recommendations and socio-
economic considerations.
Avai labi I itv: nritlinal returned to Stanford Research Institute.
313
IV. ONGOING PROJECTS: MISCELLANEOUS REFERENCES
Title:
A reel:
i·1aps:
-~ -~---~ ~-----------------------------------------------
Aerial PhotorJraphy avai labl8 from i~orth Pacific Aerinl
Surveys.
f1atanuska <lnd Susitna Vallevs.
I) The Matanuska Val ley and the Susitna Val lev (a
strip 6 to 8 miles wide alonq the Parks Hiqhway north
to Talkeetna: 1''=1,000 feet flown in 1973, 1974-and 1975).
2) The Matanuska and Susitna Valleys: I ''=I mile 1975
hiqh altitude photos.
3) f1atanuska Vallev: 1"=2,000 feet-1975.
4) ~1atanuska Valley and lower Susitna Valley
<Tmmships 16, 17 and IBN;) 1''=3,0()0 feet, 1977.
Avai labi litv: AI I above mentioned aerials are available from:
North Pncific Aerial Surveys <Tony Follett)
801) Cordova
Anchoraqe, Alaska
Photos are approximately $4.00 ner contact sheet, with
a $25.00 minimum order.
314
Project:
Contact:
Area:
Description:
--------------------------------~
LANDSAT Imagery and Applications in Alaska.
N.R.D. Albert, USGS; Branch of Alaskan Geology;
345 Middlefield Road; Menlo Park, California 94025,
(415) 323-81 I I extension 2025.
Statewide.
Recent work using LANDSAT imagery of the McCarthy,
Tanacross and Talkeetna quadrangles, as part of the
Alaska Mineral Resource Program (AMRAP), has provided
unique geologic structural and surficial reflectivity
information relevant to mineral resource assessment.
Interpretive techniques include visual analysis of a
black and white, singleband LANDSAT mosaic, and various
computer-generated color and black and white products.
Most of these are now available from the EROS Data
Center in Sioux Fa I Is, South Dakota.
I he principal objectives ot this project are: I) to
furnish the AMRAP personnel with LANDSAT materials for
reconnaissance purposes; 2) to provide a unique geologic,
structural and tectonic information for each quadrangle;
3) to construct a control led I: 1,000,000 scale LANDSAT
mosaic for each mineral resource assessment area; and
4) to provide additional geologic, structural and tectonic
information for each Regional Alaska Mineral Resource
Program that may not be available by other methods.
Primary work on the Talkeetna quadrangle presents the
following geologic features:
I) northeast-trending I ineaments that may have control led
the development of Yenlo Hi I Is and Little Peters Hi I Is.
2) I ineaments that correspond to the Yenta mineral belt;
3) concentric circular features in the Dustin Peak area.
315
J
r>ro.iect:
Contnc:t:
Area:
flescri pt ion:
Status:
Durot ion:
r1atanuski1 Electric Associntion 115 KV Transmission Line.
Vince 11d';lelland: L<1nrls Pro.i11ct ()fficer· Southcentral
flistrict~ 270-7o91.
Stnte Priority Area I.
~1ntnnuska Electric ~ssociation has receiverl tenativ11 easements
from the Stnte, anrl nnticioates the stnrt of ri~ht-of-way
clenrin~ in nctoher for n I 15 KV transmission I ine. The
nowerl ine would run from Teelnnd Substation near Wasi I Ia to
1.•/i I low, crossinq the Parks Hi~hw?Jy north of !louston.
The pro,iect is part of a lonn-ranqe nro!lri'lm by ~1EA to increase
power to the Susitna Val ley. Another nhase of the orogram
cal Is for a I ine to continue to Talkeetna by the fa I I of
1981.
Pro.iected demand for nower in the Susitna Valley and load
forecasts--not includinn the future capital site--have
been nreoCJrerl by ~1EA.
Maps indicatinq the transmission line right-of-wav, the location
of an existinq 138 KV line, and substation sites are avai fable.
The Southcentral District ()ffice has ndditional detailed infor-
mation on the ~EA orooos?JI.
r~atanuska -Sust ina Borouqh aoprova I of the easement is
oenrling.
Construction is scheduled for '·lovember 15. to be comnleted
by Aori I 15. 1978.
316
Pro_iect:
Contnct:
/\rea:
Descriotion:
Status:
Duration:
Cartoqraphv on the Northern Approaches to t1t. r1cKinley.
Dr. Bradforrl t'Jashhurn; t1useum of Science: Science Park,
lloston, MA 02114; (617) n3-2500
Mt. tlcKinlev Park.
With the use of laser equipment and prisms, Dr. Washburn
is chartinq the dimensions of r1uldrow Glacier. i,1uldrow
Galcier I ies on the Dena I i fault and neriodical ly qoes into
a two-year surqe. The qlacier surqed from 1910 to 1912 and
from 1956 to 1957. The ob_jective of the work is to orovirle
a map of the Glacier at a scale of I :10,000 of the area most
affected by the surqes, and provide a toooqraphic base for
measurement of future surqes.
Other work involvo~ a hi'lh r:]Ual ity strip map two mi loa wido
and 17 miles lonq at scale of I ·20,000, between Wonder Lake
and r1cGonaqa I I Pass.
The work also involves remeasurinq the heiqht of Mt. McKinley
by uti lizinq laser and prisms.
Boston rluseum of Science Research fund. <No futher information
available.) Present status unknown.
Summer 1977.
317
472-78
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