Hunting and Fishing Opportunities Threatened on the
Mendenhall Wetlands
The Mendenhall State Game Refuge (Taashuyee-Chookan.áani/Mendenhall Wetlands) in Juneau, Alaska, is a rare treasure—designated by the legislature in 1976 to safeguard crucial habitat and provide access for sport and subsistence hunting. These wetlands are not only a haven for hunters and anglers—they’re a globally important bird area and vital spawning grounds for anadromous fish.
Now, this irreplaceable refuge is under serious threat.
The proposed Juneau Douglas Second Crossing could shut down public access for hunting and fishing and cause irreversible harm to critical habitat for fish and migratory birds.
Alaska BHA is calling for accountability and science-based planning. We demand that DOWL, the Alaska Department of Transportation, and the City and Borough of Juneau conduct a thorough environmental review and prioritize habitat protection. If a second crossing is necessary, the Salmon Creek route must be chosen—it's the least damaging option for wildlife and public access.
A new public comment period runs from May 8 to June 9, 2025 to address the final draft of the PEL that was released on May 8 2025. It's important to submit comments during this open comment period.
We encourage commenters to edit and personalize our form comments so that they are counted as unique and individual submissions.
TAKE ACTION HERE
About Mary Glaves
Alaska Chapter Coordinator for BHA. You can find Mary outside with a rifle, bow, fishing rod, or mushroom knife most sunny or rainy days on Alaska's public lands.