January 1, 1970
Alaska Cruise Association (ACA) President John Binkley updated the group's associate members last month, outlining legislative efforts to modify the requirements of the wastewater discharge permit and the outlook for the upcoming visitor season.
Binkley said he had no crystal ball but his member lines tell him they are experiencing the worst sales in history. "It may be a lean year for the Alaska visitor industry."
Binkley asked the members for help this legislative session to change one provision of the 2006 cruise ship initiative to allow the Department of Environmental Conservation to decide wastewater discharge standards. "If the ships cannot meet the standards, they could discharge outside of state waters which equals less port time which will cause a negative economic impact," Binkley said.
ACA is planning ship environmental tours this season in Southeast and Southcentral Alaska. Parties interested in attending should contact the ACA at 743-4529.