11.2 Mile Zimovia Hwy. Landslide - Preliminary Interpretive Report (PIR)

Dear Wrangellites,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inform you that the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys (DGGS) has recently released a Preliminary Interpretive Report (PIR) regarding the 11-Mile Zimovia Highway Landslide and other activity that occurred on November 20, 2023. This report sheds light on the events that transpired and provides valuable insights into the variables and conditions contributing to these occurrences. To view the PIR, please use the following link: https://www.wrangell.com/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community/page/22154/pir2024_002_004.pdf

In response to this report and with a commitment to enhancing the safety and resilience of our community, the City and Borough of Wrangell is taking proactive measures to improve oversight and monitoring capabilities across the Borough.

First and foremost, we are dedicated to supporting the families directly affected by the November 20th landslide. Through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) landswap process provided by AS 38.050.870, we are working diligently to ensure that these families receive the assistance and support they need during this challenging time.

Additionally, we are actively pursuing funding opportunities to further study and collect data on areas of concern within the Borough. To this end, we are applying for the FEMA-Cooperative Technical Partners grant program with the State of Alaska’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which will enable us to conduct additional research and analysis to better understand and mitigate landslide risks.

We are also collaborating closely with State of Alaska DNR and our federal delegation to obtain site control and secure funding for the East Channel Emergency Access Road. This critical infrastructure project will enhance emergency response capabilities and improve access to vulnerable areas within the Borough.

Furthermore, we are working with State of Alaska DNR and the Department of Transportation (DOT) to streamline the dissemination of new information collected by the drone-in-the-box and the two weather stations that have been deployed. By leveraging these technological resources, we can enhance our monitoring and response efforts in real-time. Any updates regarding conditions in monitored areas will be shared on the Borough’s website and Facebook page as it is received from our partners at DNR and DOT. If there are urgent updates needing to be shared, we will send out a Nixel alert. Please subscribe to Nixel using the QR code in the header of this letter. Transparency and timely dissemination of information remains a top priority for the Borough moving forward.

In addition to these initiatives, we are in the process of drafting a new Emergency Operations Plan and developing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with community partners to embed public safety responsibilities in the event of an emergency. These measures will ensure coordinated and effective response efforts during times of crisis.

Finally, we are collaborating with the Alaska Municipal League to create a landslide and avalanche risk advisory platform. This platform will provide residents with timely and accurate information to make informed decisions regarding their safety and well-being.

The City and Borough of Wrangell remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritizing the safety and resilience of our community. We will continue to work tirelessly to implement these initiatives and ensure that Wrangell remains a safe and vibrant place to call home.

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we navigate these challenges together.

Sincerely,

Mason F. Villarma
Interim Borough Manager
City and Borough of Wrangell