"The commissioner of [Alaska's] Department of Natural Resources wants to change the agency's mission statement, and the proposed changed is not sitting well with at least one lawmaker and conservation groups who are worried about a pro-development bent."

"The current statement says the department's mission is to 'develop, conserve and enhance natural resources for present and future Alaskans,' KSKA reported.

The new statement removes 'conserve' and 'enhance,' leaving only 'develop' in the statement. It also removes the reference to 'future Alaskans.'

DNR Commissioner Dan Sullivan said the change is to better fit with wording in the state's constitution, which in part says: 'to encourage the settlement of its land and the development of its resources by making them available for maximum use consistent with the public interest.'"

The Associated Press had the story January 29, 2012. [2]