77 Fall 2025 Proceedings up production and employment. Greens Creek is the largest private-sector employer in Juneau, as well as the highest taxpayer.16 In 2023, Greens Creek produced 9.7 million ounces of silver, 61,000 ounces of gold, 51,500 tons of zinc, and 20,000 tons of lead.17 • Coeur Alaska Kensington is exclusively a gold mine. In 2023, it produced 84,789 ounces of gold in 2023 and, in 2024, its permanent, full-time staff numbered 369.18 • Dawson Mine is a smaller gold and silver project on Prince of Wales Island. The mine reported 48 full-time workers in 2024, and gold production of 12,500 ounces. Additional mining exploration projects are active in the region, including the Palmer Project in Haines, Herbert Gold in Juneau, and Bokan Mountain and Niblack on Prince of Wales Island. The forecast for mining in the near term is positive with high metals prices and solid production from the areas producing ore. However, the industry continues to be challenged by the shortage of skilled labor. Gold and silver surged in 2024 and are up by 21% since the start of the year. Gold reached a new peak of $2,800 in October 2024. The Coast Guard plays an important role in supporting mining operations in Alaska, particularly in remote and environmentally-sensitive areas. Coast Guard units ensure safe navigation for vessels transport- ing mining equipment and cargo by reporting naviga- tion hazards and inspecting support and cargo vessels. It is noteworthy that nearly all the large-scale foreign bulk carriers entering the Southeast Alaska Coast Guard Captain of the Port Zone are in support of mining work. Additionally, the Coast Guard enforces environmental regulations to prevent oil spills and other hazards that could harm Alaska’s fragile ecosystems. Most remote mining facilities are unique in that they are set up to receive bulk oil and hazardous materials in pursuit of mining work. These facilities trigger Coast Guard regu- lations as these goods travel by water and are classified as a waterfront facility. Alaska Marine Highway System Ferries are an economic engine for the region’s coastal communities. Community, business, and tribal lead- ers tend to agree that transportation is the lifeblood of coastal communities, and a strong ferry system is essen- tial to local economic development, quality of life, and community well-being. The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) con- nects patients to medical providers, shuttles workers to their jobs, and brings visitors, who spend millions on Rain Coast Data graphic Operation Mines • Kensington • Green Creek • Dawson Advanced Exploration • Palmer • Niblack • Bokan Other Projects/Prospects • Herbert Gold • Poorman Prospect • Woewodski • Zarembo • Admiral Calder Calcium Carbonate Mine
