A drone oblique shows a gathering by local conservation groups at the Eagle Beach Picnic Shelter (lower left) on July 18, 2026. The Herbert Glacier is seen in the distance. (Photo courtesy of Richard Carstensen)

The state has approved the first segment of a mining road requested by Grand Portage Resources Ltd., a Canadian mining company. Nearly 90% of 196 public comments received earlier this year opposed the road.

“Alaska’s public lands and transportation systems…