Support for Ambler Road Predevelopment Funding | AIDEA Board Meeting 

June 24, 2020 10:00 a.m. • Via telephone

Good morning, my name is Marleanna Hall, I am executive director for the Resource Development Council for Alaska, commonly known as RDC.

It is one of RDC’s priorities to encourage the responsible development of Alaska’s natural resources, and to encourage new exploration and projects. RDC strongly believes resource development projects in Alaska can be done responsibly, with a key focus on protecting the environment, including cultural activities and wildlife, while providing well-paying jobs, many of which require training and offer a lifetime of opportunity, and improving the long-term economic future for Alaska.

I only have brief comments today with regard to AIDEA's board that is considering spending up to $500,000 from AIDEA’s Arctic Infrastructure Development Fund for 2020 predevelopment work on the Ambler Access Project. These funds will be matched up to $500,000 by Ambler Metals, LLC, an independently operated company owned by Trilogy Metals Inc. and South32 Limited. This is an excellent opportunity for predevelopment work. 

I acknowledge that there are special interests that oppose further development of mined materials in Alaska and elsewhere. However, mineral development in Alaska could ultimately prove indispensable as forecasts indicate our nation’s mineral demands will increase. The demands will continue to be satisfied, often through the use of imported minerals, when instead the resources should be developed and produced here in Alaska where operations are strictly regulated, and best management activities are employed to avoid and minimize impacts.  

Thank you for the opportunity to support access to the Ambler mining district.