BOG appointee draws criticism

JUNEAU - A controversial appointment to the Alaska Board of Game is filling legislators' e-mail inboxes.

Gov. Sean Parnell appointed Fairbanks trapper and tannery owner Al Barrette in February. Barrette, along with many other appointees by the governor, are due for confirmation in a joint session of the Legislature. That's scheduled for Friday.

Legislators holding committee confirmation hearings on Monday had received at least 42 pages of written testimony on Barrette with mixed opinions. A committee aide says more is coming.

In an interview with Backpacker Magazine before his appointment, Barrette used Bible verses to explain his wildlife philosophy.

Critics see Barrette's profession as a conflict of interest; they've also taken issue with what they see as his aggressive pro-hunting position.