I Went to the Woods

This episode traces the history and impact of the Roadless Rule in the Tongass National Forest. Chris Wood, a key architect of the rule and President of Trout Unlimited, describes the conservation rationale, restoration work, partnerships with industry and local villages, and how balanced, collaborative solutions can protect fisheries while supporting rural economies.

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Fisheries scientist Kevin Fraley recounts fieldwork along the Dalton Highway investigating contaminants like mercury and PFAS, mining impacts along the proposed Ambler Road, access and conservation concerns, and fishing for Arctic Char. 

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This episode explores the proposed West Susitna Access — a 100+ mile industrial corridor from Big Lake through roadless wetlands to exploratory mining claims — covering estimated costs, major bridge and maintenance concerns, and how the project was split between state agencies.

We discuss ecological risks to wetlands, salmon and lamprey habitat, impacts on hunting and fishing, community perspectives from Talkeetna, and practical ways the public can get involved through comments, the Susitna River Coalition, and local events.

To close out the year I’m revisiting four critical habitat and conservation issues in Alaska.

This episode dives into the debate over a proposed second crossing through the Mendenhall wetlands in Juneau, Alaska. Local conservationists, hunters and bird experts discuss the ecological importance of the wetlands — a globally important stopover used by hundreds of thousands of migratory birds and over 230 species — and how different bridge alternatives would affect habitat, fishing, hunting access and community recreation.

Delaney Murphy is the co-founder of Out To Sea Expeditions, a Zodiac‑based tour business in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about  why small, local experiences matter, tour logistics, and what makes Southeast Alaska unique—especially low‑tide. We also discuss supporting local businesses, and the importance of sustainable and regenerative tourism for the community.

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In this episode David Bayes talks about the environmental impacts of bottom and midwater trawling in Alaska. He explains the political and regulatory powers that allow the staggering bycatch and waste of king salmon, halibut, crab, and whales.

More information is available on the STOP Alaska Trawl Bycatch page on Facebook

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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Allen Marine was voted Ketchikan’s 2025 Business of the Year. In this episode I talk to Matthew and Emma about the company's humble $82 first season fifty years ago to a fleet of custom vessels running tours out of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau. The episode covers wildlife practices and Ketchikan-specific excursions, vessel lineup, and what makes the Misty Fjords a must-see.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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The episode covers calling tactics for Sitka Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska. I talk about using a subtle call while approaching muskeg edges, the trade-off between waiting patiently at one spot versus covering more ground, and why confidence in your call matters. 

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In this episode Ryan Sapena from Seek Outside walks through his favorite tent setups — the Courthouse, Cimarron and the ultralight Silex — and explains liners, stove choices, and simple maintenance tips.

He also covers setup best practices and common mistakes (tensioning, guy-outs), condensation management, accessories, and buying advice including Black Friday sales and lead times.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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Steve Shannon is a former teacher turned strength coach in Fairbanks. In this episode we discuss why everyone should be an athlete with the goal of improving the quality of their lives, not just pursuing athletic achievements. He gives practical advice on training youth athletes, fueling performance with protein and sleep, and using simple habits "exercise snacks," and rucking to stay fit for hunting and life.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

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