It’s not unusual for the Haines Borough Assembly to balk when outside “big government” folks try to tell our community what to do. But apparently that irritation doesn’t apply when big corporate interests are giving marching orders.
On Aug. 12, the assembly reversed its earlier decision to establish a moratorium on additional tours at Chilkoot Lake and approved Alaska Mountain Guides’ request for additional tours. Previously, the assembly had determined that a moratorium would be the wisest management option for now, given the existing overcrowded conditions and the pending completion of the Chilkoot area’s management plan.
The primary reason given for the reversal? If the assembly acted in any way to limit the growth of any tours, it would displease the cruise industry. Apparently, the industry had not actually expressed any such displeasure. Rather, it was only the vague possibility of offending corporate headquarters that was sufficient cause to make the assembly roll over. Kudos to assembly members Debra Schnabel and Joanne Waterman for standing their ground against such intimidation.
One of the main attractions of our community, for tourists as well as new residents, is our reputation as a quiet destination – something that is unique and increasingly valuable these days. Ironically, it’s probably our ability to manage our resources wisely that will ultimately lead to the most sustained prosperity.
One can only hope that the assembly can rediscover its independence in time to wisely deal with looming pressures on other resources from other big, outside corporate interests, like Constantine Metal Resources.
George Figdor