Yakutat Achieves Certification
Harbormaster Ann Holcomb stands in front of Yakutat’s small boat harbor.
After months of dedicated effort, Yakutat has achieved certification as an Alaska Clean Harbor!
It is the first remote or rural harbor in the state to be certified under the new tiered system introduced in 2024.
This system, designed to accommodate each harbor’s unique capabilities and resources, includes three levels: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Yakutat has achieved Gold level certification, the second highest tier.
The Alaska Clean Harbors (ACH) program is a voluntary, non-regulatory initiative rooted in the belief that clean waters are vital for maintaining healthy, productive fisheries that benefit coastal communities. ACH collaborates with harbormasters to help them adopt and implement best management practices (BMPs) that prevent pollution, reduce waste, lower costs, and promote clean boating. Harbors that successfully implement these BMPs can apply for certification as an Alaska Clean Harbor. Applications are reviewed and certifications awarded by the ACH Advisory Committee.
Achieving certification as an Alaska Clean Harbor acknowledges the efforts of harbor managers in implementing effective waste reduction and pollution prevention practices. ACH recognizes Harbormaster Ann Holcomb for her significant contribution to this achievement. After the harbormaster position sat vacant for years, Holcomb recognized the need for harbor improvements and took on the challenge. Over the past few months, she has rallied the community and supported harbor enhancement plans, including the renovation of docks and the addition of a much-needed bathroom.
A self-described "full-time mom, part-time harbormaster," Holcomb skillfully balances a busy schedule and enjoys fishing with her family during the summer. She describes her approach as community-driven and grounded in service. ACH is grateful for her leadership and dedication to the project.
This achievement would not have been possible without the support of the Yakutat Tlingit Tribe’s environmental leadership on projects like updating the community landfill, as well as the strong support from borough manager Jon Erickson. Additionally, ACH representatives visited Yakutat to coordinate beach and community clean-ups during the annual Tern Festival. These efforts were supported by the Yakutat Tlingit Tribe, Ocean Conservancy, and members of the U.S. Forest Service and AmeriCorps, demonstrating that successful pollution prevention truly requires a collective effort.
Congratulations Yakutat on this great achievement!
