The state Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 18 on a proposal to moor commercial salmon-rearing net pens and a caretaker barge in Keku Strait near Kake.

The Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association applied for a five-year permit to anchor 22 net pens and a seasonal barge on state-owned tide and submerged land about 7.5 miles southwest of Kake. The net pens would remain year-round. The barge would be moored from January through June each year.

The net pens would cover about 35,200 square feet in total. Each pen measures 40 feet by 40 feet. The barge measures 40 feet by 80 feet. The equipment would be secured with three 2,000-pound anchors and eight rock bolts placed below the high water mark.

The proposed permit would run from May 21, 2026, through May 20, 2031. The site is located at approximately 56.89 degrees north, 134.08 degrees west, adjacent to Kuiu Island.

Written comments must reach the Southeast Regional Land Office by 5 p.m. on May 18. Send comments to 400 Willoughby Avenue, Juneau, AK 99811-1020, or email [email protected]. Questions can be directed to Christi Scott at 907-465-3427.

The state may issue the permit with conditions after reviewing public comments. The proposal may be modified during the review process.