Q: How much land did BSNC receive as a result of ANCSA?
A: BSNC received approximately 2.1 million acres. Most of this land is the subsurface estate underlying the various village corporation surface lands. The subsurface estate provides BSNC the rights to all minerals and materials contained therein. BSNC also received approximately 145,000 acres of surface and subsurface estate. These tracts are outside of the village lands and were selected for their mineral or other natural resource (including subsistence) potential.

Q: Does Bering Straits sell land to shareholders or other potential buyers?
A: The general answer is “no.” BSNC’s policy treats the land as a shareholder-owned asset and as such the land can not be sold. However, in the event that roads are constructed or some other project that benefits the region is planned, BSNC may sell easements. In special circumstances BSNC may exchange lands with the federal or state governments or private individuals is the interests of the corporation and shareholders are served by that exchange.

Q: How can a shareholder use a specific tract of BSNC land?
A: Shareholders may apply for a campsite within the BSNC campsite program area.

Q: Can shareholders use BSNC land for subsistence purposes?
A: Yes. BSNC lands are available for use by shareholders for subsistence purposes. Special land use permits are required if a specific location is to be occupied for more than 24 hours.

Q: Can a non-shareholder use BSNC lands for subsistence purposes?
A: Yes, but only if they are a resident of the region.

Q: Can shareholders explore BSNC lands for valuable minerals?
A: Yes. They need to contact the Land and Resource Department and obtain a land use permit for such activity.

Q: Who manages fish and game on Native-owned lands?
A: Native-owned lands are subject to all State of Alaska fish and game regulations.

Q: Can shareholders utilize BSNC lands for tourism, guiding, or other profit-making ventures?
A: Yes, but they need to obtain a Land Use Permit, and the terms, conditions and fees for such activity must be determined prior to any such activity. BSNC encourages shareholders who would like to develop such a venture to contact the Land and Resource Department.

Q: Can shareholders and non-shareholders dig for artifacts on BSNC lands?
A: No. BSNC does not allow unauthorized digging for artifacts on BSNC land. Archaeological materials are considered part of the surface estate. Unauthorized removal of archaeological materials from village or regional corporation lands is illegal. BSNC will prosecute individuals that illegally remove artifacts from BSNC lands.

Q: What about trespass? Does BSNC allow trespass?
A: Trespass is a difficult crime to enforce and prosecute. BSNC will pursue cases of trespass and will notify the Alaska State Troopers when trespass occurs.

Q: Can I take a 4-wheeler or SUV across BSNC lands?
A: Only where there are existing trails and/or easements. This policy helps preserve the fragile tundra environment.

Q: If I have any questions about where BSNC lands are and what I might do on BSNC lands, where can I find that information?
A: Contact the BSNC land and Resource department and we will be happy to talk to you.
 


© 2008 Bering Straits Native Corporation
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