Benka Lake Access Remains Priority for Residents

Public access at Benka Lake was the main topic at Thursday’s Sustina Community Council meeting. Twenty-three community members showed up to discuss the issue.

There is still no public access to Benka Lake after the new landowner blocked the only boat ramp last summer. The Mat-Su Borough reviewed the deed and determined that there was no existing public access easement and that the landowner was within his rights to install a fence. Two section line easements that could provide public access are steep and cross wetlands. They are both unlikely alternatives.

Several residents noted that the lake had not been stocked this year because there is no access. They went on to say that without the fish, the migratory birds and other wildlife would likely disappear. Chris Campbell, a Talkeetna resident, was concerned that the lack of access could impact property values since many landowners use the lake for recreation. 

Some residents were concerned that the fire department could no longer access the lake to fill their trucks. Eric Chappel, Talkeetna Fire Chief, says that they could use the lake water for a wildfire, but not for structural fires. In an emergency, they could remove the fence to access the water if necessary without landowner permission.

Representative Kevin McCabe attended the meeting and offered some background information. He confirmed that after speaking with the Department of Natural Resources and the Mat-Su Borough, the section lines would be difficult to develop. McCabe suggested working with the landowner to potentially purchase easement rights to access the lake. 

The group formed the Friends of Benka Lake, a group made up of at least one Community Council representative, along with members of the public. Campbell volunteered to be the coordinator. The first meeting will be held on Thursday, July 13th at 7pm at the Sunshine Fire Station.