When the Haines Borough most recently requested funding for the Lutak Dock project from the state and federal government, both applications mentioned the “transshipment of ore.” In the federal request, Constantine was listed as one of the “[k]ey collaborators that contributed meaningful input throughout project development.”
The results of Lynn Canal Conservation’s multiple records requests regarding the Lutak Dock project culminated in a white paper and e-book, both available on our website.
When delivering freight via the ro-ro, the freight barge ties up to one fender along the dock. Otherwise, the ro-ro is completely independent of the Lutak Dock. Awkward freight is also unloaded via the pass-pass, a heavily enforced section of the dock face near the fuel pipes.
The proposed $26 million project brings significant risks to Borough residents, but the choice doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A smaller project that does not serve the mining industry but puts the aging dock to rest could be a solution.
Engineers estimate it would cost $4 million for the direct demolition of the dock, including landfill and slope protection. Demolishing the dock, reinforcing the pass-pass area, and adding four modestly-sized mooring dolphins to serve current users (including Delta Western) could be a much more affordable, low-maintenance option that doesn’t put our fisheries at risk.
Every alternative offered to the public has contained many expensive elements not needed by current users but required by handymax ore ships, which are double the length and displacement of the barges currently using the dock.
Jessica Plachta
Executive Director
Lynn Canal Conservation