The Mendenhall Wetlands: A Place of Abundance and Connection
by Alec Boyd-Devine
The Mendenhall Wetlands is a 4,000-acre wetland in the heart of Juneau, Alaska. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna and a temporary home to many birds as they migrate north and south through Southeast Alaska. The wetlands provide ample opportunity to hunters and fishermen who reside in the Juneau area, as well as many individuals who travel from around Alaska and the Lower 48 to fish and hunt in this incredible environment. These wetlands have provided for humans as fishing and hunting grounds to Native peoples for thousands of years.
The Mendenhall Wetlands provide excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, birding, photography, and general exploration. According to Alaska Fish and Game, the wetlands provide over 2,000 annual hunting days on average and over 20,000 user days annually. The wetlands provide more than recreational opportunities, though. They provide an opportunity for research.
Every year, the USDA sends individuals to Juneau from around the country to collect samples from waterfowl harvested during the first two weeks of Alaska's waterfowl season. The USDA biologists sit near popular entrances for waterfowl hunters to the refuge and wait for the hunters to emerge. The USDA crew tests the harvested birds for Avian Influenza, which is impactful on both wild and farm-raised birds. This is just one of the many ways that both the refuge and hunters give back to research and science.
The Mendenhall Wetlands was one reason that I moved to the Juneau area. Prior to moving to Alaska, I had lived in over half a dozen states ranging from Kentucky to Wyoming. The Mendenhall Wetlands provided something that none of these other places did. As a hunter, fisherman, and photographer, I found that I could easily enjoy any of my passions in this one centralized place. The wetlands have provided me with opportunities to pursue my passions and put food on my table. The wetlands support me, so I will do what I can to support the wetlands.
Get an updated about the Mendenhall Wetlands PEL Studies and where City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ), AK Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOTPF) and DOWL is in the process here on the On Step Alaska Podcast!
Why are the Mendenhall wetlands important to you? Submit your blog and photos, and we'll review it for publishing. In July, the Alaska Chapter Board will pick their favorite, and you'll win your choice of BHA swag.
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TAKE ACTION HERE until June 9th, 2025.
About Alec Boyd-Devine