Alaska State Briefs
Vessel restrictions in Glacier Bay to continue
GLACIER BAY - The 13-knot speed limit and mid-channel course restriction in parts of Glacier Bay National Park that was due to expire Monday will remain in effect until further notice because of humpback whale sightings.
At least eight humpback whales have been observed in lower Glacier Bay in the past week, said park Superintendent Tomie Lee.
The restrictions apply to vessels longer than 18 feet. The affected area encompasses the designated lower bay whale waters, plus a portion of Glacier Bay directly to the north.
The area is defined by imaginary lines between Point Gustavus and Point Carolus; between the southern tip of Willoughby Island and the northern tip of Netland Island; between the southern tip of Willoughby Island and the northern tip of Boulder Island; between the southern tip of Boulder Island and the northern tip of Strawberry Island; and between the northern tip of Strawberry Island east to the non-motorized waters boundary in the Beardslee Islands.
The affected area does not include the inside of Berg Bay.
Lee said the number and distribution of whales in the park's other whale waters don't warrant keeping the restrictions in place in the Whidbey Passage, the entrance to the East Arm and Russell Passage.
The restrictions are intended to reduce the interruption of feeding whales and lower the risk of collisions between whales and vessels. The humpback is a federally listed endangered species that feeds on small schooling fish and krill in Alaska waters.
Boaters are advised to verify whale waters designations before entering the bay by calling (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine radio.
Duck hunting season opens Monday
JUNEAU - Waterfowl hunting begins Monday in the Mendenhall Wetlands State Game Refuge.
Permits are required this year because of problems with stray shots hitting nearby homes. The permit is part of an effort by the state Department of Fish and Game to educate hunters about safety. A Saturday workshop also was part of the effort.
The hunting season runs Sept. 1 to Dec. 16. Shooting hours run from a half hour before sunrise to sunset. About 600 to 800 hunters use the refuge during the season.
Free permits are available at Western Auto, Rayco Sales and the Fish and Game office in Douglas. More information is available from the office at 465-4265.
Extra patrols for holiday
ANCHORAGE - Alaska State Troopers plan to be out in force on the Labor Day weekend.
They will be on the lookout for people driving under the influence, passing illegally, speeding or otherwise not driving safely, said Greg Wilkinson, a spokesman for the troopers.
Overtime hours are being paid for partly through a "Click It or Ticket" seat belt enforcement grant, so when troopers pull drivers over for any reason, they'll issue tickets if seat belts are not worn.