The Alaska Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments through May 11 on a placer mining application for Walker Fork in the Fourtymile Mining District near Chicken.

Ajax Mining Alaska Inc. has applied for permits to conduct mechanical placer mining on state lands along Walker Fork. The operation would run from the date permits are issued through December 31, 2035. The application covers roughly 4,000 acres across sections in Township 26 and 27 North.

The department is reviewing the company's plan of operations and reclamation plan under state mining regulations. The permits would also authorize cross-country travel on state lands outside the mining locations.

Written comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. Alaska Standard Time on May 11, 2026. Submit comments to the Division of Mining, Land and Water at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709, or email [email protected].

Questions about the application or requests to view the full packet should be directed to Michelle Corrigan at (907) 451-2743.

After reviewing public comments, the department may issue permits with conditions. The proposed activity may be modified during the review process.