(JUNEAU) - Representative Jay Ramras (R-Fairbanks) introduced House Bill 255 today that could provide a practical funding formula for both the Fairbanks and Anchorage area fish hatcheries. Under the proposal, the costs of constructing a Fairbanks hatchery would be paid for out of the annual earnings from the Amerda Hess Settlement. An equal amount would be available for repairs to the existing hatcheries in Anchorage and around the state.

"I visited the hatcheries at Fort Richardson and Elmendorf Air Force Base, and believe we can reinvigorate and extend the life of those facilities by providing heating systems and making essential improvements. Additional funds not spent on those repairs can be applied to other sport fish hatcheries around the state," Representative Ramras said. "Fifteen million dollars will be provided for the Fairbanks Hatchery, bringing construction funding to $25 million, including the available federal money."

He added, "I have also included intent language in the appropriation measure and introduced a companion bill (HB 256) to name the Fairbanks Fish Hatchery after former Mayor Ruth Burnett. Ruth was instrumental in securing the federal funds for the hatchery, and I believe strongly that the new hatchery should bear her name. We are also looking at ways to fund an educational and research section using money from SB 155, the Senate President's funding bill for school construction and maintenance. Getting school kids excited about biology, the outdoors and fishing sure seems to fit under the intent of SB 155. If it passes, Fairbanks would really benefit from this kind of educational enhancement."

HB 255 has been assigned to the House Finance Committee. HB 256 will be heard in The House Special Committee on Fisheries and Resources.

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