I, Tony Knowles, Governor of the State of Alaska, make the following findings:

1. Based on information I have received from the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs concerning the flooding that threatened the communities of Chalkyitsik and Fort Yukon and the potable water problems associated with this flooding during June 15 through June 25, 1997, I have determined this event posed a direct and imminent threat of disaster of sufficient magnitude and severity to justify state action.

2. The Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, Division of Emergency Services (DES), activated a hydrological reconnaissance team to assess and forecast flood potentials on the Black, Porcupine, Sucker, and Grass Rivers. DES also activated a damage assessment team which consisted of a Red Cross representative, two Alaska State Defense Force volunteers, and a DES representative to provide assistance to Chalkyitsik for immediate needs resulting from flooding.

3, I find it appropriate that money from the Disaster Relief Fund (AS 26.23.300(a)), be expended to cover the costs incurred by DES in its emergency response.

Under the authority of Article III, Section 1 of the Alaska Constitution and AS 26.23.300(c), I, Tony Knowles, Governor of the State of Alaska, hereby order:

Consistent with AS 26.23.010 - AS 26.23.220 (Alaska Disaster Act) and AS 26.23.300(c), expenditures be made from the Disaster Relief Fund to cover costs incurred by the Division of Emergency Services after June 14, 1997, as a direct result of its involvement in the Chalkyitsik/Fort Yukon flood event.

This order takes effect immediately.

Dated at Juneau, Alaska, this 17 day of July, 1997.

S/S Tony Knowles     
Tony Knowles         
Governor