Frank Rue Commissioner
Public Communications
P.O. Box 25526
Juneau, Alaska 99802-5526
Phone (907) 465-6166, Fax (907) 465-2332

Press Release:   November 6, 2001

BETTER NEWS FOR McGRATH MOOSE
Survey Documents Larger Moose Population Than Preveiously Thought

A new, thorough survey of the moose population near McGrath has found twice as many moose in the area as previously thought, Alaska Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Frank Rue announced today.

"This new population survey is better news about moose in the McGrath area," Rue said. "The new data corrects earlier population estimates and indicates the moose population around McGrath is not declining and, in fact, may be starting to grow again. The results underscore the importance of the science-based, adaptive approach we've applied to moose management in the area. The new population numbers lead me to conclude that lethal predator control measures are not warranted and subsistence hunting should be allowed to continue."

The moose survey in Game Management Unit 19D East near McGrath was completed October 30 and found more than 1,800 moose in the area where about 830 moose were estimated last year.

Fish and Game staff is confident the latest survey is more accurate than the census conducted last year. This year observers counted every moose they could find in a 500-square-mile area surrounding McGrath. Previous moose population estimates were based on counts within randomly chosen survey units that were applied to the entire area. These randomly selected units contained very few moose and less-than-ideal conditions hindered the census effort. Good weather contributed to the success of the 2001 survey along with additional daylight since the survey was completed ten days ahead of last year's schedule. The timing of moose surveys varies each year, depending on snow cover.

With growing concern over the availability of moose to meet local subsistence needs, and doubts about the reliability of available information about moose numbers in 19D East, the department made a concerted effort this year to obtain the most accurate population information possible.

"Thanks to this year's successful moose census we now see a clearer picture," Rue said. "It is likely that local trapping efforts have been more effective than we first thought in reducing wolf predation on moose."

The McGrath area has been the focus of an Adaptive Management Team appointed by Gov. Tony Knowles to make recommendations for wildlife management to benefit local residents. The department will discuss the new census data with the Adaptive Management Team in an upcoming meeting regarding further monitoring and management strategies.

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