Hope/Sunrise 1988 Community Land Use Plan

Table of Contents

Community Land Use Plan for Borough Lands

I. Introduction Page

A. Purpose of Plan...................................................................................... 1

B. Plan Process........................................................................................... 1

C. Public Participation................................................................................. 2

II. Geography and Setting of Sunrise Area............................................................... 3

A. Physical Setting and Geography............................................................... 3

B. Social Characteristics.............................................................................. 6

C. Economic Characteristics........................................................................ 6

D. Public and Community Services............................................................... 7

E. Transportation Corridor.......................................................................... 7

a...... Map - Existing Transportation Corridors.................................... 7-A

and Utilities of Sunrise Area

III. Existing Land Uses in Sunrise Area...................................................................... 8

a. Map - Existing Land Uses of Sunrise................................................... 8-A

IV. Land Status of Sunrise Area................................................................................ 9

a. Map - Sunrise Area Land Status......................................................... 9-A

V. Community Goals (List and Explanation)............................................................. 9

VI. Future Public and Private Land Needs............................................................... 11

(List & Explanation)

VII. Overview Land Use Analysis............................................................................ 11

Relationship of Existing Land Use, Community Goals and Community Needs to Borough Lands

VIII. Land Use Recommendations for Borough Lands............................................... 16

In Sunrise (List & Explanation)

a. Map - Land Use Recommendations for............................................. 16-A

Borough Lands

IX. Additional Recommendations............................................................................ 17

Appendix A. Minutes of the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission

Appendix B. Reference Maps - Soil Productivity; Timber Resources; ............ Hydrologic Features; Slope

Appendix C. Sixmile Creek Fisheries

LIST OF MAPS

Page

Existing Transportation Corridors and......................................................................... 7-A

Utilities of Sunrise Area (II.)

Existing Land Uses for Sunrise (III.)............................................................................ 8-A

Sunrise Area Land Status (IV.)................................................................................... 9-A

Land Use Recommendations for Borough Lands (VIII.)............................................ 16-A

Reference Maps - Soil Productivity,

Timber Resources,

Hydrologic Features,

Slope............................................................................... Appendix B

Source: Chugach National Forest, 1979.

Dean Davidson, H.E. Hays and J. Venard.

SUNRISE LAND USE PLAN

Introduction:

A. Purpose of Plan:

The purpose of the Sunrise Land Use Plan for Borough lands is to provide advisory guidance to the Kenai‑ Peninsula Borough regarding the use of Borough selected lands in the Sunrise area. After approval, the plan will be used by the local Advisory Planning Commission, the Borough Planning Department, and the Borough Assembly in their on‑going evaluation of proposed uses for Borough lands. This plan only evaluates uses for public lands and makes no recommendations regarding the existing private property commonly known as the Sunrise withdrawal or Sunrise. The plan assumes no restrictions on private land, but applies only to Borough lands. The plan was completed by the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission in cooperation with the Borough Planning Department, and the residents of the Hope/Sunrise area.

B. Plan Process:

The planning process began in November 1987 at the request of the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission and the Kenai Borough Planning Department. At that time, the year round residents of Sunrise formulated community goals and possible future land needs. The community goals formed the basis for the land use designations, with consideration given to possible future land needs; potential subdivisions of private land; and existing land uses.

The planning process focused on the existing land use patterns and the physical characteristics of the approximately 2139+ acres selected by the Borough. The terrain in this selection was the underlying most important factor in determining land uses. The Planning Commission recognizes that the terrain throughout most of the selection would hinder prudent development. In keeping with the existing land use pattern of residential/recreational homesites, Sunrise residents formulated a list of possible future land needs that compliment this existing use. The residents also felt that it was necessary to identify areas that were suitable for additional large lot residential/recreational or even commercial uses should the Borough feel it necessary to make land available for such purposes in the future.

After additional study and some modifications, the Planning Commission generally agreed with the list of needs and goals developed by the residents of Sunrise. Through a series of public meetings, the commission analyzed and modified suggested land use recommendations taking into consideration the steep terrain in the area and the existing residential use pattern. The commission then formalized these preliminary recommendations and completed the plan narrative for review by the borough and a public vote by the residents of the Hope/Sunrise area.

An outline of the planning process is as follows:

1. Provide an overview of the geographical characteristics; physical setting and the community characteristics.

2. Identify existing patterns of use for the private lands and Borough selected lands.

3. Identify community goals and desires for the future.

4. What are the public and private land needs that could satisfy the community goals in lands selected by the Borough.

5. Determine the best uses for Borough lands that are compatible with the geography and existing land uses in the area, as well as the identified plan goals and future needs.

6. Provide a rationale for each recommended use for Borough lands and list any additional recommendations.

7. Prepare a map of recommended land use.

C. Public Participation:

Public participation was significant in the plan process. Sunrise residents provided the information regarding the physical characteristics of the area; existing land use patterns; community goals; and potential future land needs as well as recommending land use designations and the rationale for those designations. Public meetings were held in the Hope social hall and anyone interested in the Sunrise land plan was invited to comment. To facilitate more public comment, a preliminary land use designation map along with a written explanation for each area was posted in the Hope Post Office; a popular local cafe; and a local market. A public comment period was held at the beginning and the end of each commission meeting. In the final planning stage, copies of the draft plan were made available for public review and comment.

II. Geography And Setting of the Sunrise Area:

A. Physical Setting and Geography:

The community of Sunrise is located at the foot of the Kenai Mountains near Turnagain arm in the north central region of the Kenai Peninsula and is approximately 20 air miles southeast of Anchorage. The Sunrise selection area straddles Sixmile Creek between milepost 6 and 9 of the Hope Highway and is eighty paved miles south of Anchorage. The private land known as Sunrise is west of Sixmile Creek and is bisected by the Hope Highway. Various subdivisions of private land occur here along with 20 permanent residents and a privately owned campground open to the public during the summer months.

Sunrise was founded at the turn of the century and was then a center of mining activity and home to nearly 2,000 residents. This old townsite was located near the mouth of Sixmile Creek. Fire destroyed Sunrise in 1907 and 1908 and again in the late 1930's. Any historical remains were washed away when the earth subsided and tidal actions occurred during the 1964 earthquake. Mining activity today is primarily recreational, although some unworked claims still exist on Sixmile Creek.

The Sixmile Creek area is generally heavily forested with pole sized Birch mixed with Spruce and Hemlock. The terrain is mountainous and is characterized by a continuous series of bedrock benches. The mountainous terrain results in a number of snowslide paths. The selection area contains the mountain slopes surrounding the more desirable private land. The slopes range from 10‑60 percent with the majority of the area averaging 25 to 45 percent. Road access across Sixmile Creek to the east half of the selection does not exist, and would require a major bridge to cross the creek.

The forest cover, terrain, soil and limited exposure to sunlight in summer combine to produce low potential for agriculture. Soil productivity, judging by existing vegetation and aspects, is generally low to medial.

1. Soil Information

A soil survey by the United States Forest Service of the Sixmile valley from approximately mile .5 to the beginning of sunrise selection area was conducted by the Anchorage Ranger District of the Chugach National Forest in 1981*¹. Eighteen areas were examined. These areas were delineated on the basis of slope; topographical location; vegetative cover; and soil or soil complex. The areas were summarized as follows:

1. For Suitability As A Source Of Sand:

Improbable 84%

Probable 16%

2. For Suitability As A Source Of Gravel:

Improbable 72%

Probable 28%

3. For Suitability As A Source Of Construction:

Fair 22%

Good .5%

Poor 77.5%

4. For Building Development And Recreation: Degree Of Soil Limitations:

1. LOCAL ROADS

a. Slight 16% b. Moderate 16% c. Severe 68%

*1. Resource Overview Sunrise Area. Hope Alaska, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service, State and Private Forestry Alaska Region, 1981

2. SHALLOW EXCAVATIONS

a. Slight 0% b. Moderate .5% c. Severe 99.5%

3. DWELLINGS WITHOUT BASEMENTS

a. Slight 27% b. Moderate 1% c. Severe 72%

4. SEPTIC TANK ABSORPTION FIELDS

a. Slight 1% b. Moderate 1% c. Severe 98%

5. CAMP AREAS

a. Slight 38% b. Moderate 0% c. Severe 62%

6. PICNIC AREAS

a. Slight 38% b. Moderate 0% c. Severe 62%

7. PATHS AND TRAILS

a. Slight 38% b. Moderate 0% c. Severe 62%

The soil characteristics of the land within the Sunrise selection do not vary greatly from the examined areas adjoining it. Furthermore, it is clear from the findings of the soil survey and the existing use of surface water for household purposes, that small lot sizes or any construction above existing homes, would seriously jeopardize domestic water quality (additional soil data maps are provided in Appendix B).

2. Fish Enhancement Activities

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game in conjunction with the United States Forest Service have informed the community of their goal "to increase the sport fishing opportunities on Sixmile Creek". Starting in 1978, these agencies began evaluating Sixmile Creek and have recently created 5 acres of rearing ponds, and have begun a cooperative stocking program in Sixmile drainage. The chart below, from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, records the extent of that enhancement effort.

Table 1: Number Of Fingerling King And Coho Salmon Released

In The Sixmile Creek Drainage ‑ 1983‑1987

YEAR BROOD STOCK HATCHERY KING SALMON COHO SALMON

1983 Crooked Creek Trail Lakes ‑ 299,000

1984 " " 230,000 300,000

1985 " " 230,000 302,000

1986 " " 172,000 303,000

1987 " " 150,000 327,000

TOTAL 782,000 1,531,000

The fishery enhancement project will continue in the future and is an important consideration in formulating land use classifications (additional information on the fishery enhancement effort is set forth in Appendix C).

We would hope that any future planning efforts by the Borough within the Sunrise selection be done in coordination with the Kenai Peninsula Borough; the Alaska Department of Natural Resources; the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission; the U.S. Forest Service; the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and other concerned parties.

B. Social Characteristics:

The year‑round population of Sunrise is approximately 20, with an influx of another 5‑6 summer residents. The residents of Sunrise chose to live here due to the open space, small population, quietness and seclusion. The residents are extremely self‑reliant with the use of wood heat, sport fishing, hunting and gardening to sustain their self-sufficient lifestyles.

C. Economic Characteristics:

The economy of Sunrise is extremely limited. The only existing commercial business is a privately owned campground in operation from May ‑ September. The owners are not residents of Sunrise. Most permanent residents are employed outside of the Sunrise area. Some work for the State of Alaska Department of Transportation/PF at the Silvertip Station. Some work seasonally for the Forest Service and construction companies. Some work part‑time in Anchorage. The only locally generated income comes through small logging operations; arts and crafts; and the Sunrise campground. All are family businesses with no employees. Agriculture is practiced only on a small scale, i.e. family gardens.

D. Public and Community Services:

1. In cooperation with the community of Hope several public volunteer services are provided, including:

a. Hope Community Schools

b. Parent Advisory Board

c. Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission

d. Hope/Sunrise Emergency Medical Services

e. Hope/Sunrise Historical Society

f. Hope/Sunrise Community Library

2. Government Services Available In Hope Include:

a. Public Health Nurse

b. Hope School (K‑10)

c. U.S. Post Office

d. Transfer site (Dumpster)

3. The State of Alaska Department of Transportation/PF provides road maintenance on the Hope Road.

4. Established Utilities are:

a. Electricity ‑ Chugach Electric

b. Telephone ‑ Anchorage Telephone Utility

E. Transportation Corridor:

There exists only one corridor, that being the Hope Highway. It is a two lane blacktop road which divides both the community of Sunrise and the land use area. The road connects Sunrise with Hope and the Seward Highway.

III. Existing Land Uses In The Sunrise Area:

Consideration of existing land uses was identified as an important part of this planning process by the borough and the local planning commission. The planning commission reviewed existing land uses in the community and discussed their relationship to Borough lands. A specific effort was made to assure that plan recommendations are compatible with existing uses on lands to be transferred to the Borough, as well as on neighboring private or public lands.

The land plan deals with areas surrounding the existing private lands. This private land may be used for any purpose (unrestricted) and contains most of the desirable property in Sixmile valley. The potential for subdivision activity within these 241 acres of private land is something that deserves consideration when designating specific land uses. Watershed protection, particularly on the west side of Sixmile Creek where the private land is located, will be extremely important should some of the larger private tracts be subdivided in the future.

Important existing uses which were considered include private lands being subdivided; homesites; agriculture/grazing; recreation areas; commercial use areas; and an old timber sale area. Homesite areas may include a home office and/or small business. At the present time, most of Sunrise is a low‑density area consisting of homesites of three to twelve acres. There is one large tract of privately owned commercial property (campground) of approximately forty acres. There is also one small logging/construction business located on a homesite.

The majority of existing homesite land is used in an agricultural manner with garden plots as well as foraging for wild berries and edible plants. Several homesites are being used to raise domestic animals for home consumption. Existing Borough/State lands are used heavily for recreational purposes. Fishing, hunting, skiing, hiking, foraging and river raft activity play an important role in the land use patterns of Sunrise. Sixmile Creek provides an essential source of fish for many local residents.

It should be noted that the Borough lands will have a direct impact on the growth and character is Sunrise. There is a significant amount of land on the west side of the Hope Highway. This land is currently being used for mining and recreational activities.

Areas developed at the present time are mostly on the west side of the Hope Highway, from approximately mile seven to mile nine. This area consists of homesites with a potential for subdivision. Subdivision potential also exists within the forty acre commercial campground. Electricity runs through the existing subdivisions and runs somewhat parallel to the Hope Highway. Due to the fisheries enhancement of Sixmile Creek, a trespass problem exists with the private land owners being impacted. It is recommended that public access to Sixmile Creek be restricted to mile three and mile four of the Hope Highway. These areas were recommended by the Forest Service for public access during the 1987 fishing season.

Summary:

The existing land use in Sunrise is mostly residential/recreational. The raising and gathering of plants and animals help sustain a self‑sufficient lifestyle

IV. Land Status:

Current land status of Sunrise is as follows:

The private lands begin at approximately mile 7.2 of the Hope Highway and straddles the highway to approximately mile 8.7. The private lands are bordered on the east by Sixmile Creek and on the west side of the Hope Highway by the Chugach National Forest boundary. The private lands consist of approximately 241 acres. The majority of private lands are homesites of three to twelve acres.

The Borough selected lands begin at approximately mile 6 and extend to approximately mile 9.2 of the Hope Highway. These lands completely surround the existing private land and are nearly 1.2 miles in width. The Borough selected lands to the east of Sixmile Creek extend approximately .5 miles up Mt. Alpenglow. To the west, these lands extend approximately .7 miles from the Hope Highway. The total land in the Borough selection is estimated at 2139+ acres.

Sunrise is completely enveloped by the Borough selected lands and care must be exercised so as not to negatively impact the existing lands and lifestyles. As stated to in the section on existing land uses, trespass over private property to reach Sixmile Creek is a significant problem. It is recommended that public access to Sixmile Creek be provided by the U. S. Forest Service across National Forest land. Appropriate areas for public access would be between mile three and four of the Hope Highway.

V. Community Goals:

The Following list of goals was developed by the commission with input from the residents of Sunrise and the general public:

1. Maintain unique character and rural setting of Sunrise.

a. Keep small community flavor and quiet setting.

b. Encourage low density residential areas.

c. Discourage strip development.

d. Maintain the open spaces throughout the community.

2. Keep area and natural setting visually attractive for residents and tourists in the way of greenbelts along the roadway and the wooded appearance.

3. Assure gradual growth rate so change does not overwhelm the area.

4. Encourage safe environment for residents, children and pedestrians.

5. Set aside public lands to meet present and future public and private land needs.

a. Land used for development should be capable of supporting on‑site sewer and water.

b. Set aside land for cemetery.

c. Plan for recreational areas.

6. Provide an attractive tourist and commercial areas to help support the community's economic base.

7. Identify and provide for the disposal of appropriate lands for private ownership.

a. Disposals should be placed on market gradually to help maintain the character of the area.

b. Disposals should preserve a low density residential pattern and separate commercial and agriculture areas.

8. Protect existing natural resources of the area (water, fish, game, watershed, heating wood, and scenic quality).

9. Protect Sunrise lifestyles and existing personal freedoms.

10. Minimize government involvement whenever possible and handle things on a local level.

VI. Future Public and Private Land Needs:

This list was compiled by the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission with input from the residents of Sunrise and the general public.

Future Public Land Needs Future Private Land Needs

Bike Paths Residential Land

Greenbelts Commercial Lands

Park/Picnic Areas

Trails

Buffer Zones along Highway

Watershed Protection

Cemetery

Community Use Areas (possible future facilities)

VII. Overview Land Use Analysis:

Relationship Of Geography, Existing Land Use, Community Goals, And Community Needs To Borough Lands:

In order to complete a responsible land use analysis, the Borough lands in the Sunrise area were divided into nine units reflecting differences in geography and use characteristics. Each unit was then analyzed for the most appropriate use taking into consideration the geography; existing land uses; community goals; and community needs. The general analysis for each of the mapped sub‑units is presented in this section.

Unit 1

Unit 1 is located west of the Hope Highway directly south of the Sunrise private land area. This unit consists of a narrow bench adjacent to the highway which falls steeply to a lake on a lower bench. The lake bench then falls gradually to Sixmile Creek. The area is very scenic and includes the only lake in the Sunrise Borough land area. The lake is home to various species of wildfowl and wildlife.

Existing uses of this area include wildlife viewing, picnicking, skiing, and hiking. The lake area is primarily used by local residents for recreation purposes. A rough trail (or road) runs from the highway to Sixmile Creek and provides access to the creek.

Unit 1 is an appropriate area for a community day use area. Designating it for this use meets the Sunrise community goals and needs of having a local park/picnic area, public access and use of the lake, and public access to Sixmile Creek. It also meets the community goal of preserving natural and scenic open space areas; maintaining the community's flavor and providing a quiet setting. Therefore, it seems appropriate that Unit 1 be set aside as a community recreation area for picnic/social gatherings around the lake.

Unit 2

Unit 2 is located along the western portion of the Borough selection area above the developed residential area of Sunrise. This unit backs up to the mountains west of the Hope Highway. It consists of steep slopes which fall to a benchland covered with a series of marshes. The bench drops quickly to the residential homesites along the Highway. The area is covered with shallow topsoil and drains through the residential area to Sixmile Creek. The marsh benchland serves as an aquifer for the Sunrise residences on the west side of Sixmile Creek.

The area is used for hunting, skiing, hiking, and berry picking activities. The primary existing use important to the area, however, is as an aquifer and watershed for the wells serving the residences along the Highway.

This unit provides for the community goals and the identified need of protecting the community watershed so safe drinking water is available and sewage problems are avoided. The residents recognize the importance of this area and want it held in an undeveloped public ownership station to protect the watershed. It is recommended that the area be reserved for watershed protection.

Unit 3- (Divided into Sub-Units 3-A and 3-B)

Sub-Unit 3-A

Sub-Unit 3-A extends for 3 miles along the east side of Sixmile Creek. It varies in width but averages about a half mile along the lower slopes of Mount Alpenglow. Most of the unit is characterized by the steep slopes of Mount Alpenglow as it falls to Sixmile Creek. A narrow bench of bottom land runs next to Sixmile near the creek mouth at the northern end of the unit. The unit is traversed by several small streams draining into Sixmile Creek. The shallow soils lie directly on bedrock and have poor drainage characteristics. The subunit is quite inaccessible since it is separated from the highway by Sixmile Creek.

Existing uses of this area include fishing along the East bank of Sixmile, hunting, skiing, hiking, mountain climbing and general recreational use. The sub‑unit also serves as an important watershed to insure the water quality of Sixmile and is important to protection of the growing fish stocking and sport fishery programs. The unit includes much of the land along the creek which is open to public use in the Sixmile area. The area also serves as a scenic backdrop for the Sunrise community, the Nova riverfloat business, and the Hope Highway. The area is quite inaccessible with no developed access across Sixmile Creek.

Sub-Unit 3-A meets the plan goals and needs regarding watershed protection; open space; preserving the character and scenic attractiveness of the area; providing for public fishing and outdoor tourism; and protection of the natural resources. It is appropriate that this sub‑unit be set aside as a watershed protection, undeveloped recreation area at the present time.

Sub-Unit 3-B

Sub-Unit 3-B is located on the west side of Sixmile Creek adjacent to the Hope Highway south of Sunrise. It includes a very narrow bench of land along the highway which descends rapidly to a canyon area of Sixmile Creek. The steep terrain includes cliffs rising 100 feet above the water. Two access routes cross the area from the highway to the creek along the cleared Chugach Electric right‑of‑way and along Cub Creek.

Existing use of Sub-Unit 3-B includes limited public use of the parcel for gaining access to Sixmile Creek. Some recreational miners as well as hikers and some fishermen use these routes. Due to the steep terrain, this area does not receive much use and its undeveloped nature aids watershed protection.

Retaining this area in public ownership aids various community goals including providing a visually attractive setting for tourists and residents; providing for recreation areas and access points; and to protect the natural resources. It serves identified public needs for trails and watershed protection. It is appropriate to set Sub-Unit 3B aside for public access to Sixmile Creek.

Unit 4 (Divided into Sub-Units 4-A and 4-B)

Sub-Unit 4-A

Sub-Unit 4-A is located along the Hope Highway just north of Unit 2. The unit consists of moderately sloping benchland bordered by the Hope Highway on the east and the powerline along the south and west. It generally is not used at the present time.

Sub-Unit 4-A could be an appropriate area for one tier of residential development. Due to the shallow soils, poor drainage and steeper terrain, low density lots sizes (five acre lots) are compatible with the other uses in the area. Such use would meet plan goals of providing for low density residential land with good access, and assure that lots are capable of supporting on‑site sewer and water. It also provides for the identified a need of areas being set aside for future residential lands.

Sub-Unit 4-B

Sub-Unit 4-B is located in the southern portion of Borough lands along the west side of the Hope Highway. The Chugach Electric powerline runs along the western boundary of the parcel. The parcel thus has accessible power and highway access. The northern half mile of the parcel has a moderate slope, is well drained and is covered with Birch. This portion of the sub‑unit may be the best land in the Borough selection area for development. The southern half of the unit is steeper and is divided by Cub Creek.

Existing uses include some mining in the Cub Creek area; local resident berry picking; and mushroom gathering.

This area is developable land with good access to the highway and power. It is an appropriate area for a single tier of large residential lots. Such a use would meet the community goals of providing for future low density residential development. The use of one tier of five acre lots could provide for on‑site water and sewer. If the lots are placed on the market gradually, residential development would also be compatible with the goal of maintaining the Sunrise lifestyle and providing for gradual growth. Thus the plan recommends the use of Sub‑Unit 4‑B for low density residential/recreational lots.

Unit 5

Unit 5 encompasses an adequate greenbelt on both sides of the Hope Highway right‑of‑way through the Borough land areas. At the present time, no significant uses occur in this buffer strip area. These strips on either side of the highway should have adequate footage for a greenbelt/safety (walking/bike) trail.

The greenbelt/safety trail use of this unit meets several community goals including maintenance of a scenic highway corridor for residents and tourists, setting aside an area for future safety trails, encourage safe environment for pedestrians and children, and discourage or at least minimize impact of strip development. The identified community needs include a greenbelt, buffer along the highway, and a safety trail. The plan recommends that the area be set aside as a Hope Highway greenbelt/buffer.

Unit 6

Unit 6 is a small unit on the west side of the Hope Highway north of the existing Sunrise residential areas. The unit is flat and wet. it is one of the best areas in the Sunrise vicinity for the gathering of berries, mushrooms, and other edible plants. The existing use of the area is for community berry picking and plant gathering. Continued use of this area for plant gathering and public recreation meets plan goals regarding community recreation areas and maintenance of a self sufficient lifestyle. Unit 6 also serves as a buffer between existing and proposed residential areas and the commercial area proposed for Unit 7. Consequently, Unit 6 is recommended for a community public use/recreation area.

Unit 7

Unit 7 is located in the northwest corner of the selection area. This unit is the flattest area within the selection area. Part of the area encompasses a wet creek bottom, but much of the area is dry. The unit is accessible to the highway and electric power. An existing road provides access into the area. It was clear‑cut in the early seventies as a U.S. Forest Service timber sale. This unit receives little use except for limited use of the old road. Establishing this area as a commercial use area is appropriate. This meets the community goals of establishing a road accessible commercial area and of maintaining a local economy. The area is also separated by Unit 6 from residential use areas and is well buffered for Sixmile Creek. Unit 7 is recommended for future commercial non‑industrial use.

Unit 8

Unit 8 is located along the west side of the Hope Highway directly south of the existing Sunrise residential area. The powerline separates Unit 8 from Unit 2. Portions of the area near the highway are relatively level and the southern portion of the unit is well drained and covered with stands of Birch. At the present time, this area receives little use.

Due to its proximity to the existing Sunrise residential area and Hope Highway, as well as its ability to support limited development, Unit 8 is a good area for community reserve lands for future community facilities. The community goals and needs include community lands for a cemetery site; future facilities; and future town center. Thus, this area is recommended for community reserve lands for future community needs.

Unit 9

Unit 9 includes the northern portion of the Borough lands and is located north and east of the Hope Highway along Turnagain Arm and the mouth of Sixmile Creek. A large part of this unit is tideflats and bog areas which drain into Sixmile Creek and Turnagain Arm. A bench along the road drops down to the flat wet bottomlands. The area is heavily used waterfowl feeding area on the Portage flyway. The area encompasses the only public lands near the mouth of Sixmile Creek.

Existing uses include public wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing and access to the mouth of Sixmile Creek. Due to private land along Sixmile Creek, this is the only public access area near the creek mouth. Continued use of this area as a public wetland area helps meet plan goals and community needs. Specifically, it provides for public access to the creek; maintains coastal wetland areas; keeps coastal areas attractive and meets the community goal to maintain open space and areas for public use. Consequently, Unit 9 is recommended as a public use area with a portion of the area recognized as a wetland area.

VIII. Land Use Recommendations For Borough Lands In Sunrise.

1. Community Recreation Area: Use as public recreation land for picnic/social gatherings around the lake.

2. West Sunrise Watershed Protection Area: The residents of Sunrise feel strongly that this area be held in public ownership in order to protect the water quality near their private property. The terrain is steep and consists of many levels of primary bedrock benches, each of which drains onto the benches below. Soils are thin and absorption is generally poor.

3-A. East Sunrise/Sixmile Watershed Protection Area: The community recommends that this area be held in public ownership. Access to this area is difficult. The terrain is steep, and soils are extremely shallow. Any development would have a significant visual impact on existing residences and could potentially disrupt the salmon fishery that is being enhanced by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

3-B. Sixmile Creek Access Corridor: To provide legal access to creek away from existing private property.

4. Residential/Recreational Lots on the Hope Highway: Minimum lot size of five acres. Single tier of lots is recommended to retain water quality and the community's desire to see low density development. Both areas are directly accessible to the Hope Highway with power available.

5. Hope Highway Greenbelt/Buffer: The community recommends that this area be retained in public ownership in order to maintain visual attractiveness for residents and travelers. The community also recommends that area be wide enough to accommodate future trails along the highway and still maintain a greenbelt/buffer.

6. Public Use/Recreation Area: The community recommends that this area be held for possible use as a recreation area. Accessible to the Hope Highway, the area has a large population of wild berries and mushrooms.

7. Future Commercial Area: This area is separated from residential areas and has road frontage with power available.

8. Community Reserve Area: The community recommends holding this area for future community uses, ie. cemetery site, activity center, library, etc.

9. Turnagain Arm Wetland Area: provides access to Sixmile Creek mouth and Turnagain Arm. Access to Sixmile Creek mouth is limited due to the private riverfront property.

IX. Additional Recommendations:

A. Minimum lot size for any Borough lands should be set at five acres.

B. Adequate soil testing for on‑site sewage disposal by appropriate agencies should occur prior to subdivision or disposal of Sunrise lands.

C. Gradual marketing of lands disposal to help maintain the rural character of Sunrise.

D. Government agencies that have resource management control in the Sixmile drainage, (i.e., United States Forest Service and Alaska Department of Fish and Game) should consult with Sunrise residents concerning river access issues and the consequences of recreational user impact should the management plan for Sunrise include any major development.

E. Substantiative plan modifications will be subject to the approval of the Hope/Sunrise Advisory Planning Commission and the advisory vote of the Sunrise residents.

F. Access area for Sixmile Creek as recommended by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, be designated between mileposts three and four of the Hope Highway. The Sunrise Land Use Plan allows for designated access in Unit 3‑A and Unit 9 should sport fishing opportunities escalate and trespass incidence increase.