RDC Comment Letter:
Support of Cruise Ships Entering
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

May 28, 2010

Ms. Cherry Payne, Superintendent
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
PO Box 140
Gustavus, AK 99862

Dear Superintendent Payne:

The Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc. (RDC) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the proposed 2011 operating season use day quota for cruise ships entering Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

RDC is a statewide business association comprised of individuals and companies from Alaska’s oil and gas, mining, forest products, tourism and fisheries industries. RDC’s membership includes Alaska Native Corporations, local communities, organized labor, and industry support firms. RDC’s purpose is to encourage a strong, diversified private sector in Alaska and expand the state’s economic base through the responsible development of our natural resources.

RDC supports increased access to scenic treasures like Glacier Bay. The proposal to maintain the current quota for ships at 153 use days for the months of May, June, and July, and 92 use days for the months of August and September in 2011 is adequate. However, increasing the number of ships allowed to enter each month could promote expansion of cruise itineraries and ultimately grow passenger numbers with no adverse impact on the environment. As over 60 percent of Alaska’s visitors travel to the state via cruise ship, actions to increase access will reap significant benefits.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this important issue.

Sincerely,
Resource Development Council for Alaska, Inc.