The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 14 on a proposal to allow suction dredge mining on the Fortymile River near Eagle. Joshua Hammond applied to operate a suction dredge at French Joe Bar under the name French Joe Bar project.

The application covers mining claims in two sections along the Fortymile River in the Fortymile Mining District. If approved, the authorization would run through December 31, 2028, with possible extensions. The state is reviewing the plan of operations and reclamation requirements for the suction dredging work on state lands.

Suction dredging uses a vacuum system to pull gravel and sediment from river bottoms to extract gold and other minerals. The state reviews these applications to ensure mining operations follow reclamation standards and protect water quality.

Written comments must reach the Division of Mining, Land and Water by 5:00 PM on May 14, 2026. Send comments to the Fairbanks Mine Permitting Office at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or email [email protected]. Questions about the application should be directed to Michelle Corrigan at 907-451-2743.

The full application packet is available for review at the Fairbanks office. After reviewing public comments, the state may issue an authorization with conditions or modify the proposed activity. Other state and federal agencies also review mining permit applications for compliance with their respective regulations.