Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Office of the Commissioner

Welcome

• DEC Acting Commissioner:
• Christina Carpenter
• Biography

Primary Services

• Provides policy direction for the department
• Ensures that public concerns are fully considered in department decisions and actions
• Establishes department objectives and assures performance
• Serves as spokesperson for the Governor on environmental matters
• Issues decisions on administrative appeal requests
• Adopts all department regulations

Goals

• Protect human health and the environment while providing timely, science-based, legally defensible permits/approvals.
• Improve employee retention and develop our employees
• Leverage technology and workflow improvements to create efficiencies, reduce our environmental footprint, and increase the transparency and visibility of DEC's efforts.

Of Interest

Volcanic Ashfall Information

Volcanic ash is made of small abrasive particles that pose several health concerns. Exposure to ash can lead to irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Volcanic ash also poses risks to the health and safety of pets and livestock. During ashfall or when there is ash on the ground, steps should be taken to minimize an animal's contact with ash.

DEC continues to press EPA for a reasonable approach to PM pollution

For 14 years, the local communities, the Borough, and DEC have been making progress on particulate matter pollution in the FNSB Nonattainment Area. DEC and the Borough have worked diligently within federal restrictions to develop a plan that curbs emissions and provides a sustainable and affordable framework to help maintain air quality. This is no simple task.

Federal Responsibilities for Contaminated Lands in Alaska

50 years after ANCSA passed, contamination still threatens the health of Alaska Natives and limits the use of lands for which they gave up their aboriginal claims.

Values

We make objective decisions, based on science and facts.

We are accountable for our actions and stand proudly behind our work, as individuals and as an organization.

We perform to the highest standards and produce transparent and consistent regulatory actions to show our integrity.

We support and encourage collaboration across programs and partners to meet challenges and further our collective mission.

We strive to provide excellent customer service both inside and outside of the organization by being professional, responsive, reliable, and respectful.