It was announced on Friday by Alaska's Governor, Sean Parnell that he had declared an economic disaster for the residents of Saint Lawrence Island for the Walrus harvest that came in a mere 36 percent of the prior ten-year average.

Residents of Saint Lawrence Island harvest walrus annually as a critical subsistence food source for the villagers. The ivory obtained from the walrus is also a significant economic driver for the region.

It was determined by the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development that the low harvest levels for the residents of Savoonga and Gambell because of extreme ice and wind conditions in the area.

“DCCED Commissioner Susan Bell has compiled information regarding possible aid programs for which residents in affected communities might quality. To ensure residents receive the assistance they need in the coming year, the list includes not only State and federal programs, but also nonprofit, native corporation, and regional economic development organizations that offer help with food and utilities, as well as tools to assist businesses. Staff from the Divisions of Economic Development and Community and Regional Affairs will work with community members and leaders to coordinate assistance.” according to a letter written by the governor to President of the State Senate Charlie Huggins and Speaker of the State House Mike Chenault.

“We will work closely with community members and leaders to ensure residents receive the assistance they need in the coming year,” Governor Parnell said.

The governor’s office said that the Governor may recommend acceleration of capital projects planned for the area and may fund new projects to alleviate some of the economic hardship for the villages on the island.