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Alaska Approves Tentative Oil Exploration Near Yukon River

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources tentatively approved oil and gas exploration on state land near the Yukon River.
Public comments on the decision are due by April 6.
Hilcorp, in partnership with Doyon Ltd., has drilled in the area.
Any exploration plans must undergo additional regulatory processes due to subsurface rights issues where ownership is split between the state and Native corporations.
Hilcorp has not disclosed plans for the summer 2026 season, but local collaboration remains a priority.

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Story summary

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources tentatively approved oil and gas exploration on state land near the Yukon River.
Public comments on the decision are due by April 6.
Hilcorp, in partnership with Doyon Ltd., has drilled in the area.
Any exploration plans must undergo additional regulatory processes due to subsurface rights issues where ownership is split between the state and Native corporations.
Hilcorp has not disclosed plans for the summer 2026 season, but local collaboration remains a priority.