Responsible Resource Development in Alaska: A Developer’s Perspective on the Red Dog Mine

Abstract

Thank you for inviting me today to the Eighth Polar Law Symposium. I understand this is the first time the Polar Law Symposium has been held on North American soil making me honored and humbled that you would invite me to share a few thoughts. This is an exciting time for Alaska and the Arctic. If my father, Walt Parker, were alive he would be at every meeting engaging in as many of the issues as possible. And he would have wondered why President Obama hadn’t met with him while visiting earlier this month.1 While he is not here with us physically he is still providing guidance to many he mentored, taught and loved. Alaska, its people, and its beauty offer many opportunities. As Alaskans we fight hard to make sure this land we love is protected while allowing us the ability to maintain our lifestyle. While people in Washington DC and others give the impression that Alaskans believe in ‘rape, ruin, and run’ this is far, far from the truth. We treasure this land upon which we live and enjoy every day, which is why we remain – to continue to work to protect the land and the resources, and provide for our people. Many of us have seen great change occur over the years – this change has impacted communities all around the state – from the smallest village to large metropolitan areas like Anchorage. For the indigenous Alaskans who have been here thousands of years – the change they have seen has been staggering. As a lifelong resident even I have noticed change in our landscape – more people, more roads, more homes, less open space – at least here in the Anchorage