Beringia Museum of Culture & Science

Facility Business Plan February 2008

Produced for Kawerak, Inc. by Agnew::Beck Consulting and Bettisworth North with funding provided by the US Administration for Native Americans

This is a summary of the full business plan developed for this project. The full plan can be obtained from Kawerak, Inc.

All photos in this document were taken by Agnew::Beck Consulting unless otherwise noted. Architectural renderings, diagrams and sketches were developed by Bettisworth North. Cover images of local art © Kawerak, Inc. Aerial of Nome © Google and GoogleEarth.

Table of Contents Acknowledgements ...... 1 Executive Summary ...... 3 Leadership and Advisors ...... 3 Planning Process...... 3 Vision ...... 4 Goals...... 5 Description of Facility ...... 5 Operations...... 6 Programs...... 6 Market ...... 6 Conclusion...... 7 1: The Bering Strait Region...... 9 Description of the Bering Strait Region...... 9 History and Culture ...... 9 Environment, Flora and Fauna...... 10 Population...... 11 Area Communities...... 12 Existing Facilities...... 13 Visitor Facilities...... 13 Cultural Facilities...... 13 Science Facilities ...... 13 2: Market Research ...... 15 Residents of Nome and Surrounding Villages...... 16 Children & Youth...... 16 Elders ...... 16 University Students...... 16 Other Groups...... 17 Community Groups and Organizations...... 17 Visitors...... 18 Tour Industry Leaders – Cruise Lines...... 18 Birding Tour Groups...... 19 Business Travelers ...... 20 Cultural Tourism...... 21 Wildlife Viewing and Ecotourism ...... 22 Event Attendees ...... 22 Iditarod Sled Dog Race...... 22 Iron Dog Snowmachine Race...... 23 Other Events...... 23 Researchers...... 23 Estimate of Center Activities ...... 23 3: Facility Description ...... 27 Facility Elements...... 27 Facility Concept Design Diagram ...... 27 Facility Program...... 27 Facility Program...... 28 4: Finance: Operations...... 31 Summary of Projected Revenue ...... 31

Revenue Sources...... 31 Summary of Expenses ...... 33 Expenditures ...... 33 7: Finance: Capital Development ...... 37 Project Cost Estimate...... 37 Fundraising Strategy...... 38 8: Governance & Site Issues...... 41 Ownership...... 41 Partners...... 41 Management Structure ...... 41 Organizational Chart...... 41 By-laws ...... 41 Facility Site Selection...... 41 Area & Site map ...... 41 Site Requirements...... 42 Site Control...... 43 References...... 45

List of Tables Table 1. Area Populations...... 11 Table 2. Nome Census Data...... 11 Table 3. Lodging Opportunities...... 13 Table 4. Comparable Facilities...... 17 Table 5. Nome Visitation Data, 1999-2001...... 18 Table 6. Projected Birding Visitors – Nome 2004-2024, Low, Base and High Cases...... 19 Table 7. Bering Land Bridge Preserve Visitation Data, 1999-2001...... 22 Table 8. Nome's Current Tourism Value and Maket Segments ...... 24 Table 9. Facility Program, 10% Design...... 28 Table 10. Projected Admissions Revenues...... 32 Table 11. Operations Revenue & Expense, 5 year projection ...... 35 Table 12. Capital Cost Estimate...... 37 Table 13. Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Full Project Budget...... 39 Table 14. Site Requirements ...... 42

List of Figures Figure 1. Facility Development Timeline...... 7 Figure 2. Beringia's Market Segments...... 25 Figure 3. Facility Concept 10% Design ...... 27 Figure 4. Site location within downtown Nome area ...... 43

List of Maps Map 1. Bering Strait Region...... 9

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

“A project like this is long overdue. When it is accomplished, we will be able to say ‘this artifact came from my village,’ or ‘my brother produced this piece of art.’ I hope we are able to incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and language as much as possible. The Beringia Museum of Science and Culture will help instill pride in our people and the region.” – Winton Weyapuk, Native Village of Wales

Thank You The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science is supported by many people and organizations. This support has moved the project to this current stage, and will continue to carry the project forward from planning to reality. Thank you to all who assisted and continue to assist in these efforts. Planning for the Beringia Museum Project was made possible in part through a grant from the US Administration for Native Americans. Additional funding and in-kind contributions are provided by Kawerak, Inc. Special thanks to our regional village Cultural Advisors: Susanna Horn of St. Michael; Beatrice Bucholz, B.J. Gray, White Mountain; Al Sahlin, Nome Eskimo Community; Dolly Kugzruk, Teller; Simon Bekoalok, Shaktoolik; Edwin Weyiouanna, Shishmaref; Peter Martin Sr., Stebbins; Ruth Ojanen, King Island Native Community; Rita Olanna, Brevig Mission; Clarence Saccheaus, Flora Simon, Elim; Winton Weyapuk, Wales. And to our dedicated interim Leadership Team members: Matt Ganley, Bering Straits Native Corporation; Willie Hoogendorn, Artist; Linda Kimoktoak, Sitnasuak Native Corporation; Steven Longley, Kawerak Board Member; Saunders McNeill, Alaska State Council on the Arts; Dave Norton, Arctic Rim Research; Alice Rogoff, Alaska Native Arts Foundation; Ron Senungetuk, Artist; Merlin Koonooka, Kawerak Elder Representative; Dianne Okleasik, Eskimo Heritage Program; Cynthia & Jacob Ahwinona, Marilyn Koezuna-Irelan, King Island; Angela Linn, Museum of the North. Sincere gratitude to our affiliates: John Bockman, Department of Transportation; Nichole Andler, Tom Heinlein, National Park Service; Richard Beneville, Nome Discovery Tours; Brian Bourdon, Leo Rasmusson, USDA; Tim Towarak, Aaron Rhodes, Jerald Brown, Bering Straits Native Corporation; Cliff Johnson, Denise Barrengo, Nome Eskimo Community; Jack Hebert, Cold Climate Housing Research Center; Joy Hewitt, John Wehde, Nome Public Schools; Paul Korchin, KNOM radio station; Bob Metcalf, Lee Haugen, UAF- Northwest Campus; Randy Romanesko, City of Nome; Sue

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 1 Steinacher, Alaska Fish & Game and Arctic Arts; Michael Thomas, King Island Native Community; and, Bob Banghart, Alaska State Museum. Kawerak staff: Jessy Bowman, Planner; Eileen Norbert, Senior Planner; and Rose Fosdick, Natural Resources Vice President. Assistance with the preparation of this report was given by Thea Agnew Bemben, Ellen Campfield Nelson, Beth McLaughlin, Heather Stewart and Tomas Jensen of Agnew::Beck; Tracy Johnson and Charles Bettisworth of Charles Bettisworth & Associates. Leadership for the project is provided by the Kawerak Board of Directors and Loretta Bullard, President.

2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

“I’m excited about plans for this museum for Nome and for our region because our young people nowadays don’t know our traditions and our cultures and this will give them a way of finding out about their own village culture.” – Susie Horn, St. Michael resident

The residents and communities of the Bering Strait region have long held the desire to create a museum and cultural center for the Beringia region. The museum will showcase the ancient and modern culture of the Bering Strait region and highlight its place within Beringia – a vast area that includes present day Alaska and eastern Siberia. Stretching nearly 1000 miles at its widest point, a land bridge that once united these two continents may have been one of the ways that the first people traveled to the North American Architectural rendering of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science continent. Many connections persist to the present day between families and communities on either side of the Bering Strait. The natural history and paleontology of the area is also uniquely interesting. Beringia is a center point for arctic research, particularly in the study of the effects of global climate change. From local, regional and international perspectives a museum and science center focused on Beringia is long overdue. Leadership and Advisors The concept for the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science was developed by Kawerak, Inc., the entity that will own and operate the facility. Kawerak, Inc. is the regional Native non-profit organization serving the Bering Strait region. Kawerak’s Board of Directors will oversee the fundraising, operation, maintenance, and policy development for the facility and its programs. The Cultural Advisory Committee and the Leadership Committee provide guidance for the development of the facility and its programs. The Cultural Advisory Committee is made up of representatives from the area’s villages and advises project planners on the cultural content of the museum. The Leadership Committee is made up of a variety of stakeholders, including representatives of the following interests and organizations: culture, education, science, tourism, commerce, fishing, labor, education, utilities, natural resources, workforce development, local elected officials, local tribes and the regional Native Corporation. This facility development project has been staffed by Kawerak, Inc. through a grant from the US Administration for Native Americans supplemented by in-kind contributions from Kawerak. Planning Process Planning for the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science has included a number of community workshops, a village survey to all of the region’s villages and numerous meetings with the Leadership Committee, the Cultural Advisory Committee and other stakeholders and affiliates. The planning process includes opportunities for community members and stakeholders to shape the programs for the museum and the facility that will house them. During 2007, a 10-percent design for the facility was Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3 completed to further refine the facility program and develop a more accurate estimate of capital costs and museum program and exhibits. Planning for this project emerged from identified priorities from local and regional plans. The Nome Comprehensive Plan, published in February 2003, includes a number of goals and objectives that will be fulfilled by the establishment of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science. For example, “Promote Nome as a gathering place for the villages”, “Identify means to strengthen and preserve Nome’s cultural history” and “Coordinate with villages to promote Eskimo art” are all objectives included in the plan.

Bettisworth North completed a 10% conceptual design for the facility in September 2007

The Northwest Area Transportation Plan, published by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities in October 2003, identifies numerous strategies for expanding tourism in Nome and the surrounding region. Specifically, the plan identifies as a priority construction of “an in-town Nome regional cultural center that could be used for multiple purposes such as Native art production and sales, demonstrations, cultural events and workshops”.1

Vision Several visioning events were held with a variety of stakeholders to define the vision for the facility. The vision statement for the facility that will guide the project, the facility and its programs follows: The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science should celebrate and impart the shared history and living culture of Alaska and Russian Native peoples of the Bering Strait region. The facility and its programs will educate and inspire local residents in sustaining Inupiat, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, and Yupik traditional values and practices, while introducing contemporary art, dance and current scientific research to everyone who visits Beringia. The museum will operate sustainably within a state-of-the-art facility located in Nome, Alaska, and, through use of technology, lead to the creation of a “museum without walls” that will have a global reach.

1 Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, “Northwest Area Transportation Plan”, October 2003, p. 77. 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Goals A number of goals were identified by stakeholders to guide the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science. These goals act as criteria by which the facility plan and programs can be judged as the planning process continues. Foster Connections – within the Nome community, between communities in the region, across continents, among varied stories of the past and how we came to be here Highlight Beringia – one region that spans two continents, traditionally connected through family, travel, tradition and trade Showcase the “Ingenuity of the Arctic” and Perpetuate Bering Sea culture - help Native people identify with their traditions and culture and share that culture with the world Engage elders in planning and operating the facility – Elders guide development Engage youth in traditional arts & crafts –help the region’s youth build self-esteem and provide recreation and meaning Promote eco tourism and contribute to the regional economy Provide a place to collect the region’s artifacts - to interpret objects from the past and display objects held out of the region Interpret the natural history and ecology of Beringia and become an international center for scientific research, explore the “Science of Place” Teach and celebrate Native languages Celebrate and encourage artists of the region – develop innovative design and marketing for artists Use Nome as a “hub” with spokes that extend to every village – host programs and activities out in the region Provide an incentive and an example of career opportunities for the region’s youth – mentor the youth to take on leadership roles Tie culture and wellness together and perpetuate traditional medicine from the region Exchange programs with other Arctic facilities, universities, artists, tradition bearers (Greenland, Asia, Northern Canada)

Description of Facility Bettisworth North completed a 10% design for the facility in September 2007, working with the advisory committees and other stakeholders. The central feature of the facility will be the Gathering Place. This space will host a variety of activities from cultural practices and performances to presentations to community events. It will be equipped with seating and a stage but the area will accommodate multiple uses and will be flexible in its arrangement and furnishings. Space diagram from 10% design process

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5 Exhibit space for both art and artifacts is included in the facility. This will showcase both the ancient art and ingenuity of the people of Beringia as well as modern artistic expression. There will also be an artifact repository to assist with the collection of the area’s artifacts. Exhibits on the natural history of the region, particularly birding exhibits, will also be developed. Classroom space will be used by researchers and community groups to learn about the natural history and latest scientific research being conducted in the region. Services for visitors in the facility include a gift shop and a local tourism broker during the summer months. The facility program from the 10% design describes a 21,266 square foot facility. The estimated project cost including project planning, fundraising, design, construction and construction management is $23,092,448, using an estimated construction cost of $673.30 per square foot. Operations This facility business plan describes the operations plan for the proposed museum. Kawerak will be the owner and operator of the facility and will be responsible for its sustainable operations. Funding for the operations of the museum will come from a number of sources: existing Kawerak programs that will be housed in the museum funded through Kawerak’s compact with the Bureau of Indian Affairs; additional funding from Kawerak enterprises; revenue generated from admissions, event rental, sales and concessions; and, contributions from local and regional organizations. A portion of the profits from Kawerak’s new for-profit subsidiary construction firm, Tumet Industries, will be dedicated toward the sustainability of the museum facility. Some exhibits will be developed in partnership with affiliate organizations. Specialized staff such as the research coordinator and special museum curators will be provided on loan from affiliate organizations. Programs A comprehensive survey of the area’s villages was conducted by Kawerak staff during winter 2006-7. Survey results as well as meetings with the Cultural Advisors have provided clear guidance on the types of exhibits and programs that the museum will provide. The next stage of the planning process will refine the facility design and also will clarify the types of programs that Kawerak will provide within the facility using existing programs or by developing new ones. Funding for new programs will be pursued separately and concurrently with the capital campaign to construct the facility. A Museum Director will be hired in 2008 to fully develop the programs of the museum and to lead the development of exhibits and other program materials. The themes for museum exhibits and programs identified to date through the planning process include environment, people, tradition and innovation. The methods to explore these themes will be varied but will include museum exhibits, daily use space where everyday cultural activities will occur, art shows, artifact displays, and a variety of hands-on education opportunities. Scientific research will also be conducted through the museum working with partners such as the National Park Service and the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, International Arctic Research Center. Market This business plan includes a section that explores the various user groups for the Beringia Museum. It also estimates the benefit from these user groups to the facility and to the community as a whole. While the main users of the facility will be local area residents, visitors from birders to Iditarod spectators will also be drawn to the museum’s offerings. An additional section is included that catalogues lessons learned from similar facilities around Alaska. Interviews with museum directors have highlighted the importance of developing strong roots in the local community, developing programs that are meaningful to both local and outside audiences and being measured in development always balancing the desires for expanded exhibits and facilities with available funds. 6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Conclusion The proponents of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science are engaged in a detailed planning process that involves stakeholders from the Nome community and throughout the region. The project director and planning team are moving forward with the many elements of planning and developing a museum such as program development, facility design, fundraising and developing the organizational structure to govern the museum in a sustainable fashion. This facility business plan draws all of these efforts together for detailed consideration by Kawerak and its project partners. While much has been agreed upon, many questions still remain. This plan is an invitation to partners to carefully consider whether developing the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will further their own organizational goals. Any entity with a serious interest in preserving, developing and sharing the art, culture, flora, fauna and natural history of the Beringia region is invited to examine this concept and consider joining the effort. Beringia is a region of many communities, ecosystems, nations and histories. The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will be a place to explore each of these in their particularity and to foster connections between them. It will be a place where village elders, international guests, scientists, artists, young people and residents will share stories, learn from one another and by their participation make the museum a place as vital and unique as the region it explores.

Figure 1. Facility Development Timeline

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7 8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 1: THE BERING STRAIT REGION

Description of the Bering Strait Region The Bering Strait region is located in Northwest Alaska, just south of Map 1. – Bering Strait Region the Arctic Circle. Regional boundaries extend 230 miles east to west and 230 miles north to south, encompassing an area of over 26,000 square miles (15 million acres) that borders the Strait for which it is named. The region also includes a number of islands including St. Lawrence, Sarichef, King and Little Diomede. Vegetation in this area is predominantly tundra, with spruce forest in the eastern and southern part of the region. History and Culture The Bering Strait region is part of a larger region commonly referred Source: Agnew::Beck Consulting to as “Beringia,” a vast area that includes present day Alaska and eastern Siberia. Stretching nearly 1000 miles at its widest point, it is theorized that a land bridge that once united these two continents may have been one of the ways that the first people traveled to the North American continent. As one of the few areas free from ice during the last Ice Age, a vast steppe populated by grasses, dwarf birch and a variety of giant mammals allowed for migration across the two continents. The successful human settlement of Beringia required the development of a rich culture and complex technological skills. Some writers have suggested that the ancient colonization of Beringia represented a technological achievement equivalent to the penetration of such environments as Antarctica, the deep sea or the moon.2 The Alaska Inupiaq people have lived in this region for an estimated 4-6,000 years; the earliest documented evidence of human habitation dates back 10,000 years. Settlements are concentrated along the coast and river systems. Traditionally, Inupiaq settlements have been seasonal with semi-subterranean winter homes established mainly along the coast. Spring and summer brought movement inland along the rivers. Subsistence has always been integral to the life of the people of this area and is focused around caribou and the ocean and river animals (e.g. seal, fish, and the beluga whale). With the onset of winter, settlements return to the coast and winter villages to begin winter subsistence gathering. Winter is also a traditional time for traveling and gathering for feasts and dances.3 During the summer of 2005, a construction contractor working on a US Army Corps of Engineers on the Nome harbor improvement project exposed a semi-subterranean house on the

2 Source: www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com 3 http://www.nps.gov/akso/akarc/cr_bela.htm

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan THE BERING STRAIT REGION 9 Snake River Sandspit. During the summer of 2006, a second house and trash midden was excavated. Artifacts such as tools, pottery, carvings, and animal bones were radiocarbon dated at about AD 1700. The find is significant in that it shows an indigenous presence in the Nome area prior to contact with other peoples such as the Russian explorers who first came to the area in 1741. According to the Alaska District Archeologist who excavated the site, it was likely occupied late during the summer and into fall seasons based on the hunting tools and remains of caribou, sea mammals and salmon, animals found and harvested in the area during these periods. Additional items of a possibly ceremonial nature: a small carving of a man, drum handles, and other items, suggest that the dwellings may have been used during the festival season, which takes place during the winter. Items found during this excavation are owned by the City of Nome.

Europeans first reached the area when, in the eighteenth Source: Kawerak, Inc. century, Russian and English explorers mapped the Bering Strait and the land to the north. Contact between Natives and non-Natives was primarily through trading until the late nineteenth century when, with the expansion of whaling, fur trading, and mining, and missionary activity, Europeans and other non-Natives began to settle in the area. A second influx occurred during World War II when the region became an important military outpost of the U.S government. Mining and the discovery of oil and gas have continued to influence the lives of the region’s residents. While non-Native contact and influence has had its impact, the cultural practices and traditions of Beringia’s indigenous cultures remain strong. It is a region of worldwide significance as its history, technological innovation and rich culture demonstrates. Environment, Flora and Fauna Paleontologists have discovered a rich collection of dinosaur remains in northern Alaska. Species living between 70 and 75 million years ago adapted to the cold climate in ways that are just beginning to be understood and further studied. Today the Bering Strait area is home to an extremely diverse array of plants and animals. While the region is dominated by arctic tundra, over 400 species of plants are found here, including numerous species of mosses and lichens.4 A variety of mammals and birds also inhabit the area including grizzly bear, musk ox, reindeer, wolf, wolverine, fox and many smaller species. More than 170 known species of birds migrate 20,000 miles yearly to the Bering Strait region and to the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve.5 These include seabirds such as gulls, murres, and kitteywakes; migrating and nesting waterfowl such as ducks, swans, and geese; birds of prey such as hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls; and many songbirds of the tundra and uplands. The area lies at the crossroads of the Asiatic-North American flyway, which offers the bird watcher rare opportunities to observe several Old World species.

4 Source: www.nps.gov/archieve/bela/html/plantani.htm 5 http://www.nps.gov/bela/

10 THE BERING STRAIT REGION Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan The waters surrounding the Bering Strait region provide habitat to a number of marine mammals and fish. Mammals seen along the coast include several species of seal, and walrus, and whales such as the beluga and bowhead. Fish found in area’s rivers, streams, and lakes include several species of salmon, grayling, char, whitefish and pike. Geologically the landscape is equally varied. Perhaps the most important element of the geological history of the area is the formation of the land bridge and the dry land connection between Asia and North America. The land is characterized by broad valleys and mountainous areas; sounds and lagoons cutting deep into the land; lakes; winding streams and hot springs. Notable features include Devils Lake, which is the largest maar in the world, and the Serpentine Hot Springs. Mineral deposits are rich and include 6 coal, tin, molybdenum, gold and tungsten. Table 2. Nome Census Data Population City of Nome, 2000 According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2000 Census, Total Population (2005) 3,508 the Nome Census Area is home to over 9,000 Median Age 32.4 residents, of which over 75 percent are all or part Alaska Native, primarily Inupiat Eskimo. The Census Median Household Income $68,804 Area covers 23,013 % Below Poverty 6.3% Table 1. Area Populations miles. The city of Nome serves as a % Alaska Native 58.7% Area Populations (2005) regional % of Adults Not Working 39.4% Brevig Mission 327 transportation and Source: Alaska DCCED, Community Profiles Council 0* service hub for Elim 302 fifteen surrounding villages located along the coasts of Gambell 660 Norton Sound and Bering Strait. The city provides residence Golovin 150 for over one-third of this population, estimated at 3,508 King Island 0* residents in 2005 (see Table 1). Koyuk 350 There are three culturally distinct groups of Inuit people who Little Diomede 132 live in the region: the Inupiat, Siberian Yupik, and Central Nome 3,508 Yupik. The Inupiat reside on the Seward Peninsula and the Savoonga 695 King and Diomede Islands. The Central Yupik primarily Shaktoolik 224 reside in the villages south of Unalakleet, and the St. Shishmaref 581 Lawrence Island Yupik live on St. Lawrence Island. The population of Nome includes members from 20 different Solomon 8 Inupiat and Yupik tribes. Major tribes include Inupiat, Teller 263 Siberian Yupik, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Malemiut and Unalakleet 710 Unaligmiut. Wales 151 Opposite this region, on Russia’s Chukotka Peninsula, is the White Mountain 224 *Indicates unpopulated community or Chukotka Autonomous Okrug (Region). In 2004, this area seasonal-use area. had a population of just over 55,000 in a land area of 737,700 Source: DCCED, 2005. square kilometers. It is home to several Native groups, including Chukchi (the largest group), Chuvantsy, and Siberian Yupik, Evens, Yukagirs, Koryaks and Kereks.7

6 Source: www.nps.gov/akso/beringia/naturalelements.htm

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan THE BERING STRAIT REGION 11 Area Communities The Bering Strait region is home a diverse array of communities. Some are located on the road system and have significant populations, while others are small, remote and are only inhabited on a seasonal basis. The islands of the region, St. Lawrence, Little Diomede, King and Sarichef, each have a unique culture and history. St. Lawrence Island has been inhabited intermittently for the past 2,000 years by both Alaskan and Siberian Yupik Eskimos. When the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) was passed in 1971, Gambell and Savoonga opted for title to the 1.136 million acres of land in the former St. Lawrence Island Reserve. There are two Diomede Islands, each are inhabited by Ingalikmiut Eskimos. The two islands are separated by the Russian-American border and the International Date Line. King Island was historically a winter home for peoples who summered near Nome after its foundation. In the 1960’s residents permanently moved to Nome. Former residents pursue subsistence activities on the island in the spring and summer months. Shishmaref is located on Sarichef Island just north of Bering Strait, five miles from the mainland. The village is surrounded by the 2.6 million-acre Bering Land Bridge National Reserve and part of the Beringian National Heritage Park. Other villages in the region are located on or close to the water due to its importance as a subsistence resource. Shaktoolik, Unalakleet, Elim, White Mountain, Golovin, Wales, Koyuk and Brevig Mission are regional villages located on the Peninsula. The remainder of the villages are located a road system that extends from Nome to several outlying communities. These include the villages of Council, Solomon, and Teller. Nome is the largest of the area’s communities and will be considered in somewhat greater depth, as it is the location for the proposed Beringia Museum of Culture and Science. The City of Nome was founded in 1901 as a result of the discovery of gold on the beach sands. Nome’s economy is largely driven by the private sector including commercial fishing, fish processing, tourism, and some mining which is still very much a part of the city’s culture. 40 percent of the employment in Nome is funded by local, state, and federal government agencies. Nome is also the terminus of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, providing the city with a winter boom in tourism. Nome is the transportation hub for the region and receives daily jet service from Anchorage. Charter and helicopter services are also available. The city is also the origination of three major state roads: Teller Highway, Council Road and Kougarok Road. These roads combine to over 250 miles of road, providing access to areas surrounding Nome and Alaska’s largest independent road system. A port provides cargo, cruise ship access and a boat launching area. Several schools operate in Nome, with over 700 students.

7 (http://www.chukotka.org/root/?lang=en)

12 THE BERING STRAIT REGION Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Existing Facilities Table 3. Lodging Opportunities Visitor Facilities Area Lodging Opportunities Visitor facilities in Nome are relatively well developed as Polaris Hotel Nome is the regional hub for the Bering Strait region. Many Polar Arms Apartments restaurant and lodging opportunities are available for visitors Aurora Inn including thirteen different lodging options (see Table 3). Ponderosa Hotel Local restaurants offer a variety of menus in thirteen Trails End different locations ranging from espresso to pizza to A Soundview B&B Chinese food to fast food outlets such as Subway. Nugget Inn Visitor attractions currently include the City Convention and Bed For A Night Visitors Center, the Carrie McLain Museum, dog sled tours Extra Dry Creek B&B during winter months, snow machine tours, a lunch with Bering Sea Bed & Breakfast Elders at the Senior Citizens Center, the newly restored Old Chateau de Cape Nome Saint Joseph’s Church, and several shopping locations for Mai's Guest House Native arts & crafts and Gold Rush memorabilia. Sweet Dreams B-n-B Cultural Facilities Source: Nome Chamber of Commerce The city of Nome has become a tourism destination for learning about the culture of the area. Offices and regional headquarters for many Native communities in the region are located in Nome. Bering Straits Native Corporation, Council Native Corporation, Sitnasuak Native Corporation, King Island Native Corporation, Kawerak, Inc., Norton Sound Health Corporation, four local tribal authorities, and the Bering Straits Regional Housing Authority all have offices in Nome. Local events of cultural significance include the Savoonga Walrus Festival in May or June, the Shishmaref Carnival in April, and the Gambell Whaling Festival in July. There are currently several facilities in the area and region that showcase the region’s heritage. The Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum, currently Nome’s only museum, has a collection displaying Gold Rush items, Bering Strait Eskimo artifacts, a display on aviation as well as the history and culture of Western Alaska. The Old Saint Joseph’s Church, dating back to the founding of Nome as a city, has been restored and is now a public use facility. These facilities and organizations draw visitors and strengthen the local economy. Science Facilities The University of Alaska, Fairbanks operates a Northwest campus in Nome that serves fifteen Inuit villages in a 36,000 square mile area. The college, which has operated in the area since 1976, focuses on distance learning and the connection of students and faculty to other regions and the resources of the greater University of Alaska system. In addition to the university resources several groups have offices in Nome. The Eskimo Whaling Commission, Eskimo Walrus Commission, Bering Strait and Norton Sound Migratory Birds Council and Northern Norton Sound Wildlife Advisory Committee to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game have offices in Nome and offer scientific resources.

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan THE BERING STRAIT REGION 13 14 THE BERING STRAIT REGION Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 2: MARKET RESEARCH

“…we find that people all over the country have very, very little knowledge of Beringia, but great curiosity. This may be one of the most important cultural developments that will happen in the state...”

– Alice Rogoff, Alaska Native Arts Foundation

Beringia is a place of great significance in the history of both humankind and the natural world. The area is rich with stories of human migration and innovation, evolution and adaptation of animal species and changes in the natural environment over past millennia. The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will tell these stories through active and interactive presentations, research and gatherings. This diversity will attract many different types of user groups. This section describes the characteristics of these main user groups. Preliminary market research suggests that the main audience for the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will be the residents of the region. Other users groups will benefit from and be attracted to the museum, but will not provide the bulk of the visitation. The success of the museum will rely heavily on local and regional support, both in terms financial and human resources. In this sense, though the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will be of value to a broader audience, the facility and its programs will be directed by and toward a regional audience. While visitors from outside of the region will likely comprise a comparatively small portion of users, this segment has considerable value and must be considered in museum planning. Nome attracts tourists from cruise ships, birding groups, Iditarod crowds, visiting artists and researchers, business people and other user groups. These visitors will be attracted to the museum’s offerings. By increasing the number of attractions for visitors and providing high quality programs, the museum will create indirect economic and social benefits to the region. Museum planners should be cautious, however, in estimating the direct revenue contributions to the facility from these users, since they will likely be comparatively small in numbers. Below is a more detailed analysis of the user groups that are likely to be attracted to the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science and some preliminary projections of annual visitation to the center.

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 15 Residents of Nome and Surrounding Villages Residents of Nome and the region’s villages will be the largest segment of users for the facility. In the 2000 Census, the Nome Census Area counted 9,000 residents. Specific sub-groups within this population that are likely to frequent the museum include the region’s school-age children, its Elders, and the university population; combined, these high-use groups amount to about 3,600 people, or roughly half of the total Nome Census Area population. Assuming that the programs offered by the museum were targeted to the interests of these groups, many of these residents could make use of the facility numerous times over the course of a single year. Children & Youth The Bering Strait School District which serves the communities in the Bering Strait region has a combined enrollment of 1,800 students located in fifteen villages. Nearly all of these students are Alaska Native.8 The City of Nome operates the Nome Public Schools that serves 761 students in five schools. While the enrollment in the Nome district has dropped slightly in the past 10 years, the overall enrollment trend has generally remained stable.9 Additionally, there is a private school in Nome run by the Seventh Day Adventist Church. In 2000, the school reported 40 students enrolled in grades one through nine. All of these students – a total of approximately 2,600 – represent a potential market for educational tours and interactive exhibits. This same population is also very likely to benefit greatly from the impact of such a facility in their region, particularly through the examination and celebration of their local heritage and natural environment. Elders The region’s Elder population is another important user segment for the museum. Of the region’s total population, 769 people over the age of 60 were recorded living in the Nome Census area. This figure is up from 624 in 1990 and indicates a trend of increased aging in the population. Not only could this Elder population be a targeted user group for the facility, but these same Elders offer an incredible resource to the facility and programs, including a remarkable breadth of traditional cultural and environmental knowledge. This population could both contribute to an understanding of the living culture of Beringia and be a bridge between old and new technologies and different ways of knowing. University Students The University of Alaska-Fairbanks operates the Northwest Campus in Nome that serves the fifteen occupied villages within a 36,000 square mile area. The college, created by the State Legislature in 1976 as the Northwest Community College, focuses on distance learning and the connection of students and faculty to other regions of the state and resources of the university system.

8 Source: http://wiki.bssd.org/index.php/District_Profile #BSSD_District_Profile 9 Source: http://www.eed.state.ak.us/stats/

16 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan According to the Registrar’s Office, the Nome campus averages between 300-500 students per semester. This figure has remained relatively stable in recent years. Most of these students are part-time students. There is increasing importance of web-based learning, which could integrate well with web-based offerings developed by the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science’s programs. The student body is relatively evenly split between residents of Nome and residents from communities in the rest of the region. The museum’s research programs and opportunities to host visiting researchers will provide shared benefits to the Northwest Campus students and faculty. Other Groups Aside from the abovementioned primary user groups there are a number of secondary user groups that are likely to use and benefit from such the museum. These include local artists including carvers, dancers, painters, photographers and sculptors, archaeologists, researchers and teachers. Community Groups and Organizations There are numerous groups and organizations in Nome and surrounding area that use the facility for meetings and gatherings. These groups include local dance groups, youth and Elder conferences, and other community organizations. Some of these groups are also natural volunteers and partners on facility exhibits and programs. The potential exists to generate some additional revenue for the facility through facility rental to these groups. A list of similar facilities currently available in Nome, and the charges for use, is included in Table 4.

Table 4. Comparable Facilities.

Facility Rental Cost Deposit 0-3 hours $50 - 3-5 hours $75 - Old St. Joseph Church 5-8 hours $100 - 8-12 hours $200 - 12-24 hours $250 - Any portion of 24 hour $150 $200 period Mini Convention Center Rental with food & $200 $250 drink Notes: Rental and deposit fees are payable in advance. Deposit refund is conditional upon satisfactory clean up of facility per checklist. Sales tax will be added to facility rental fee. Source: City of Nome

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 17 Visitors Nome is a well-established tourism destination with an estimated 10,000 visitors annually.10 The three state roads in the region all originate in Nome: Teller Highway, Council Road, and Kougarok Road. These 250 miles of road are the sole access routes to many of the region’s smaller villages and recreation opportunities. Nome, in addition to Gambell, is a checkpoint for U.S. border crossings. The Nome Convention and Visitors Bureau collected data on visitation from 1999-2001. While these estimates are not current, they can be relied on to show the general order of magnitude of visitation. While visitors travel to the region in significant numbers, the duration of trips to the area is relatively short. According to Nome Convention and Visitors Bureau, most Nome visitors spend less than one night in town, while average time spent in Alaska for these visitors is 13 days. Increasing the number of offerings and providing high quality programs targeted at particular visitor interests can increase the length of stay for out-of-region visitors. By increasing the “stickiness” of a destination, that is providing reasons for visitors to stay longer, local businesses will accrue increased benefit from visitors. The quality of the visitor experience to Nome is highly rated. On a scale of 1-7 with 1 being poor and 7 being excellent, visitors gave Nome an average of 5.7 for their stay.11

Table 5. Nome Visitation Data, 1999-2001. Visitor Center Group Alaska Airlines Year TOTAL Walk-Ins Travelers Package Travelers 1999 3,729 1,320 5,500 10,549 2000 6,095 1,520 3,857 11,472 2001 4,892 2,285 3,272 10,449 Source: Nome Convention and Visitors Bureau. 2001 numbers are preliminary

Tour Industry Leaders – Cruise Lines Nome operates as a port of call for small, expedition class vessels. These vessels, typically operating during the summer months of June, July and August, are drawn to the region for its wildlife viewing, cultural opportunities and access to Russian provinces. Currently Clipper Cruise Line and Cruise West offer packaged travel to and from Nome. Clipper Cruise Lines has two 14-night options for travel from Nome to surrounding islands. Cruise West offers a route tracing the historic 1899 Harriman scientific expedition from Vancouver to Nome as well as to Russia’s Provideniya. These cruises attract primarily U.S. passengers. Two other cruise lines have visited Nome in the past, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and Society Expedition Cruises. Cruise line agencies report that 786 cruise passengers stopped in Nome in the summer of 2005.12 Nome, as a point of embarkation and disembarkation, has passengers passing through the city

10 Source: “Nome: Area Tourism Demand, Potential & Infrastructure Study.” 2003. Alaska DOT/PF. 11 Nome’s 4 percent bed tax generated $65,255 for the general fund in 2000, and the 4 percent sales tax generated $2.2 million from residents and visitors [DCCED]. In 2005, the Iditarod alone brought in $109,000 from the bed tax. 12 Source: www.dced.state.ak.us/oed/toubus/pub/Bering_Strait.pdf 18 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan for a period of time. In addition to a ground tour that is often included in the tour package, passengers usually have a little time in Nome to shop and eat. Native arts and crafts are sought- after items by the clientele. This segment of the tourism market in Nome is small in number but potentially lucrative. The passengers of these adventure and expedition lines are largely well- traveled, well-educated, older individuals with high income levels. They are interested in wildlife, natural history, and the area’s culture. Improvements to the facilities available in Nome, both in terms of basic services and cultural offerings, will help to solidify and expand the interest of these cruise lines to use Nome as a port of call. While potentially quite profitable, this segment of the market is limited and volatile because of competition between ports of call. In 2007, Cruise West will drop from two stops in Nome down to one stop. While Nome has many attractions that include wildlife, scenery and culture, it is important to highlight the truly unique offerings that will entice this segment of the market. The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will need to provide programs that appeal to the interests of cruise passengers, as well as targeted marketing to cruise line agencies in order to attract these users. As described above, however, these visitors usually only have six hours in Nome which limits their economic impact. Source: DCCED Birding Tour Groups Nome is one of the best birding places in the world. Over 140 species have been documented at the nearby 4.5 million acre Koyukuk National Wildlife Refuge.13 While many of these species are visible in other parts of the world, their trip to the Arctic comes during the mating season so many species are visible with bright plumages and colorings making the area unique. Within Western Alaska the Nome area is the best place to see Arctic species, such as Bristle- thighed Curlews, Spectacled and Steller’s Eiders, scoters and other ducks, Arctic and Pacific Loons, Bartailed Godwits, American and Pacific Golden Plovers, Red-necked Phalaropes, Rock Sandpipers, Arctic and Aleutian Terns, and occasionally a Gyrfalcon. While a birder is not guaranteed to see these species, the trip to Nome allows them to see a sample of many birds not seen in many other areas of the U.S. and some not seen Table 6. Projected Birding Visitors – Nome 2004-2024, Low, Base and High Cases on a road system. Year Low Base High The number of birding visitors is estimated in Table 2004 750 750 750 6. Even in the “Low Case” 2009 788 869 1102 scenario, this group is comparable in size to 2014 828 1008 1619 adventure cruise passengers 2019 871 1168 2379 and is more likely to overnight in the area. These 2024 915 1355 3496 estimates are confirmed by Source: Nome: Area Tourism, Demand, Potential & Infrastructure Study. ADOT/PF, 2003. local businesses. Bird tour

13 For a full checklist please visit http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/birds/chekbird/r7/koyukuk.htm

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 19 operators emphasize the importance of Nome’s location on a state road network, which makes it ideal for hosting visiting birders. Developing informational materials and other programs targeted at birders will increase the attractiveness of Nome as a destination. Conservative estimates for visitor spending by birders in Nome is $250,000 per year, most of which occurs over a three week period.14 These visitors also stay an average of 3-5 days increasing their contribution to the local economy. This three week period begins in early June, the prime migratory season. Maintaining or opening the road network earlier in the year would increase access during the best potential birding season. While the market for birding is likely to stay constant or increase slightly, this market is for very dedicated birders who are hoping to add these sought after birds to their life lists. Several things will help to increase the size of this market. The coordination of marketing with groups such as Audubon and the publication of guidebooks and maps would allow Nome to capture additional revenue from these birders. The expansion of this market to more causal birders represents perhaps the largest source of potential growth in this category. Business Travelers Because of its significance as a regional hub, Nome receives a small but steady stream of travelers throughout the year that come to Nome on business related trips. Included in this is a number of people that are involved in area construction projects at various levels. These travelers will often overnight in Nome and in many cases stay for multiple days. In 2005, the McDowell group conducted a survey of non-cruise visitors to Alaska. This included nearly 6,000 interviews. 1,175 of those were traveling to rural Alaska locations, 51 of those individuals were surveyed coming from the Bering Strait region.15 Results from those surveyed found that 8 percent of those travelers were traveling for business, compared to 75 percent who were traveling for vacation. The survey indicates a relatively small number of people are traveling to the region for business related reasons. Discussions with area accommodations indicate that this may not be accurate. Both the Aurora Inn and Nugget Inn report occupancy rates over 70 percent for the summer months. Even during the slower winter months the Aurora Inn reports occupancy rates of 40-50 percent. A majority of the rooms in both are being rented by business travelers. The Nugget Inn estimates this percentage to be 60 percent; with much of this group involved in the construction field. With 56 rooms in the Aurora Inn and 47 in the Nugget Inn and an average stay of 3 days, places the number of business travelers at over 3,000, on par with other groups discussed in this market segment.16 These results are larger than the findings in the ADOT study on Nome Tourism Demand conducted in 2003 and may be due to the inclusion of construction in this estimate. The idea that business traffic through Nome is a large market, however, is still confirmed.

14 Source: http://www.dced.state.ak.us/dca/AEIS/Nome/Tourism/ Nome_Tourism_Narrative.htm 15 The McDowell Group notes that the results from the surveys conducted from the Bering Strait region should be interpreted with caution as they have an associated 14.5 percent margin of error. 16 This figure was calculated using an average stay of 3 nights, 1 person per room, 50 percent of those lodging are there for business, with 50 percent occupancy rate in the 103 combined rooms of the Aurora and Nugget Inns.

20 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Cultural Tourism The Bering Strait region is rich in cultural history with stories to tell about indigenous adaptations to the environment, traditional subsistence practices, traditional art forms and festivals, the Gold Rush era, and present day life in the Arctic. Research by the Nome Convention and Visitors Bureau found that visitors are interested both in learning about Native culture and about the Gold Rush era. While the existing museum includes displays and information about the Gold Rush era, there is not as much emphasis on sharing information about Native culture and history. Currently, no facility exists in the region dedicated to this purpose. Cultural tourism is a very competitive market niche. When seeking to attract this segment, offerings must be judged in a worldwide context. The same visitor that may travel to the Bering Strait region to experience its culture will be choosing among destinations around the world, many of which are less costly to visit than rural Alaska. Providing high quality programs, forming strategic partnerships with tour brokers for shared marketing and emphasizing topics of interest to this segment are some of the ways to compete in this market segment. Unfortunately, one of the main operators providing access to this market segment, Alaska Airlines, has discontinued the vacation package they offered that included service to Nome as of 2005. Efforts should be made to address any deficiencies that lead to discontinuing this package so that it can be offered, at minimum to serve birders during the busy month of June. Another cultural resource currently being developed is an Alaska Native Arts and Crafts sales outlet, working with the Alaska Native Arts Foundation, a non-profit corporation designed to promote and broaden the understanding of Native Art. Another proposed project is the Nome Native Co-op, developed by Alice Rogoff and the King Island Native Corporation. The project is currently looking for a facility. Nome could continue to expand opportunities by promoting day trips to outlying communities and solidifying itself as a regional hub destination for tourism, combining these tours with local traditions or festivals. The Alaska DCCED study mentioned earlier, completed in 2006, found that visitors were drawn by the remote character of the region. Individuals also enjoyed and appreciated interaction with local residents. Travel groups and tour operators should emphasize these opportunities. The survey found that those visitors interested in learning about the region’s culture tended to travel more widely around the state, more often in rural areas and tended to stay in Alaska longer (Profile of Visitors to Rural Alaska and the Bering Strait Region, DCCED 2006). Cultural tourism and eco-tourism are growing segments of the tourism industry that may provide users for the planned museum.17 It should also be noted that the Bering Strait Native Corporation is currently expanding opportunities for remote camping and bird-watching rental cabins on the Seward Peninsula.

17 The International Ecotourism Society estimates ecotourism activities among the fastest growing travel trends. In the U.S. they estimate this to be a $77 billion industry, 5 percent of overall travel and tourism market in the U.S. (www.ecotourism.org, accessed March 7, 2007).

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 21

Wildlife Viewing and Ecotourism

A 2006 study funded by The Table 7. Bering Land Bridge Preserve Visitation Data, 1999-2001. Nature Conservancy, an international nonprofit that 1998 1999 2000 preserves unique habitats, found Recreation Visitors 3,740 3,000 3,025 that visitation to national parks Source: National Park Service dropped by 26.5 percent between 1992 and 2005. Figures for Alaska parks showed that over the same time period visitation continued to grow (Craig Medred. “Natural monopoly on park places.” Anchorage Daily News, 9/3/2006). The Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is located in the Nome Census Area and is dedicated to the protection of this area of cultural and archeological significance. Access to the preserve is by plane, or, in the summer, by small boat. There is a bunkhouse-style cabin at the Serpentine Hot Springs that can sleep 15-20 and provides access to the hot springs. For those interested in a remote trip and eco-tourism this area provides a wonderful opportunity. Nome and the surrounding area are home to other mammals in addition to birds. Wildlife viewing gives visitors the opportunity to see some of the more than 2,000 head of Musk oxen that live on the Seward Peninsula. The Nome Census area also has 62 percent of Alaska’s 40,000 reindeer, as of 2000. These unique species are an additional wildlife draw to the area. Visitation to the preserve in 2005 was 2,428. As seen from Table 7, this number is down from previous years and is forecasted to drop again in the coming years.18 This trend can be countered by targeted marketing to the segment of travelers interested in wildlife viewing. Again, strategic partnerships with tour brokers and operators, as well as targeted Internet marketing could highlight this region’s attractions to reach this market. Event Attendees Iditarod Sled Dog Race The Iditarod Sled Dog Race is the biggest single public event of the year for the City of Nome. The 1,149-mile race, which begins in Anchorage and ends in Nome, brings thousands of visitors from around the world to the city, where they watch teams finish their runs of this historic course. In 2005, the Iditarod brought in over $1 million dollars in spending to Nome’s economy and $109,000 to the City through bed taxes.19 An added economic benefit of the event is that it comes during an otherwise economically slow part of the year. According to a recent study, the number of Iditarod attendees is estimated at 1,500.20 This number was confirmed by area businesses.

18 http://www2.nature. nps.gov/stats/abst2005.pdf 19 http://alaskajournal.com/stories/032005/hom_20050320001.shtml 20 Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, Tourism Study, 2003.

22 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan

Iron Dog Snowmachine Race The Iron Dog, a snowmachine race that roughly follows the Iditarod course runs a circuit from Wasilla to Nome and Fairbanks. The race was founded in 1994 with twenty individuals but in recent years the field has increased to more than seventy Iron Dog participants. Though the economic impact is less than that of the Iditarod, the February event still brings a sizable number of visitors to Nome during mid-winter months. Other Events Among other events held in Nome, attracting locals and visitors alike, are the Miners and Mushers Ball, the Iditarod Basketball Tournament, Bering Sea Ice Golf Classic, Businessman's Dog Team Race, Nome-Council Sled Dog Race, Nome-Golovin Snowmachine Race, Cannonball Run, Northwest Arctic Games, Midnight Sun Festival, Nome River Raft Race, and the annual Polar Bear Swim in the Bering Sea. The Beringia facility would provide a stopping place for these visitors while in Nome. Additionally, the museum could explore hosting a specific event or events of its own that would bring people to the facility and into the region. Researchers The Bering Strait Region offers a remarkable ‘living laboratory’ worthy of scientific inquiry. Researchers in universities from around the world conduct work in the area. With the increased interest in studying climate change, the Arctic region will likely experience increased interest from researchers. These researchers can contribute to the relevance and stature of the museum as a research and teaching Source: DCCED institute. The museum may develop partnerships with universities to increase the quality and breadth of its offerings. Researchers can both benefit from the museum’s existence, by using the facilities and connecting with local experts and other researchers, and contribute to the museum’s programs and exhibits. The Northwest campus of the University of Alaska-Fairbanks has added several new science faculty who would be able to take advantage of partnerships with the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science. There is a great need in the region for anthropological and archaeological experts, who may be attracted to and bring research dollars to the facility. In addition, researchers could help offer internships and professional development opportunities to local residents interested in careers in science and academic research. Estimate of Center Activities Having examined several of the likely user groups of the Beringia Museum of Science and Culture, it is possible to make preliminary conjectures about the annual visitation to the facility. Total volume of Source: DCCED

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 23 visitation to the museum is projected in the range of 11,400 to 12,600 visitors. The previous sections have outlined the current visitor industry in Nome and surrounding areas. This section will summarize that information and put forward several examples of the potential economic benefits that the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science could bring to the region. The volume and value of these groups has been examined in several previous reports. The 2003 DOT study estimated the total value of these different segments. These values and volumes are reported in Table 8, with the addition of several school related groups. What can be seen is that Nome has a diverse and well developed visitor base. Nome has long been a destination, serving as a stop for birders, adventure travelers, cruise passengers, and others. Nome is also a regional destination, serving area residents. To understand the size of different visitor groups Figure 2 shows the relative sizes of these groups based on the table above (Table 8). Within the group of visitors, the single largest group is the area schools. This table also estimates the percentage of these visitor groups that would visit the Beringia Museum and the potential revenue generated. Note that not all visitor groups would pay the same admission fee. The effort to increase both the number of visitors and length of stay will bring increased revenues to the local businesses. While the amount of local revenue generated depends greatly on the type of expenditures by visitors and on the amounts of goods and services provided in a community, the positive impact on the local economy remains. For example, if the Beringia facility held an annual event and it attracted 300 people from outside of Nome. For a single-day event, using the $100 per diem spending figure established by the AVSP, the event could be valued at $30,000. Another example demonstrates the value of a museum to increase the length of stay for visitors, creating an added benefit for local hotels and

Table 8. Nome’s Current Tourism Value and Market Segments1

Number that Estimated Estimated Percentage that would attend Average Estimated Estimated Length of Avg. Per Estimated Total would attend Beringia Admission Revenue Visitor Group Volume Stay Diem* Value Beringia Museum Museum fee Generated Small Group/Independent Birders 750 4 $200 $ 600,000 60% 450$ 8.00 $ 3,600.00 Other summer 2,000 3 $200 $ 1,200,000 30% 600$ 8.00 $ 4,800.00 Hunt/Fish 400 3 $200 $ 240,000 5% 20$ 8.00 $ 160.00 Winter Adventure 300 3 $200 $ 180,000 50% 150$ 8.00 $ 1,200.00 School Groups Regional Schools 1,800 1 $ - 25% 450$ - $ - Nome Schools 750 1 $ - 60% 450$ - $ - Adventure Cruise 750 1 $100 $ 75,000 80% 600$ 4.00 $ 2,400.00 Special Events Iditarod 1,500 2 $200 $ 600,000 50% 750$ 8.00 $ 6,000.00 Other Business Travel 3,000 2 $200 $ 1,200,000 15% 450$ 8.00 $ 3,600.00 Visiting Friends, Relatives (VFR) 750 4 $35 $ 105,000 50% 375$ 8.00 $ 3,000.00 Total 12,000 $ 4,200,000 4295$ 24,760.00 24 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan lodging. If the facility were to induce 500 individuals to overnight in Nome, using a per diem spending of $200, to include lodging and meals, the value would be $100,000. For the City these overnight guests also generate additional revenue from Nome’s 4 percent bed tax, which generated $65,255 for the general fund in 2000 [DCCED]. Rather than try to estimate the number of individuals the Beringia facility will bring to the area these examples show that by offering a way to increase the number of visitors and their willingness to overnight the entire community will benefit. Increasing visitation and multiplying its benefits for local businesses is difficult work and there are many factors that contribute to the success of these efforts. One factor in particular, Nome’s need for exposure on a national level, could be well Figure 2. Beringia Market Segments addressed by the construction of this facility. Other Nome is an extreme Birders, 750 summer, location, this holds value for Schools, 2,000 Hunt/Fish, many and makes it an 400 attractive destination. The 2,500 creation of an additional Winter structure in Nome to Visiting Adventure, increase visitor traffic and Friends, value should be welcomed 300 for its potential benefit for Relatives, Business Events (e.g. Cruise the area’s population. 750 Travel, Iditarod), Passengers, 1,200 1,500 750

Source: Agnew::Beck

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan MARKET RESEARCH 25 26 MARKET RESEARCH Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 3: FACILITY DESCRIPTION

Facility Elements During the business planning process three scales of facility were considered. This set the stage for the 10% conceptual design process that was completed in September 2007 by Bettisworth North. Splitting the project into two phases was discussed during the planning process, however, the project will now proceed in one phase as the planning team determined that this would be the best strategy for completing the project in its entirety. Facility Concept Design Diagram Figure 3. Facility Concept 10% Design

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FACILITY DESCRIPTION 27 Facility Program Table 9. Facility Program, 10% Design

The 10% conceptual design has identified the following facility program for the Beringia Museum of Culture and

Beringia Museum of Culture and Science ESTIMATED Science. FACILITY PROGRAM SQUARE FEET Gathering Space

Potential Uses / Tenants The gathering space is the central area of the facility. It includes a stage, changing rooms and is adjacent to the Gathering Place kitchen. This area will have movable chairs and benches. Central gathering area 3200 The surrounding walls will have displays of local art. This Stage 500 space will function as a central area for informal Changing Rooms 350 gatherings, cultural performances and events. Kitchen 350 SUBTOTAL 4400 Gallery Gallery Art Gallery / Artifact Display 800 This space will include an art and artifacts gallery and Exhibit Storage- Archives 200 exhibit storage space, with space reserved for archives Artifact Repository 500 storage. Kawerak’s Eskimo Heritage Program has Dedicated Artifact Exhibit Space 500 compiled an extensive archive of printed material, photos SUBTOTAL 2000 Educational Facilities and other documents which will be catalogued and

Classroom 1 1000 housed in the Beringia Museum. This space will also Classroom 2 800 display rotating exhibits of both modern and traditional Artisan Studi / General Workshop 600 art from the Beringia region. Traveling exhibits from SUBTOTAL 2400 other institutions would also be displayed in this area. Cultural Tourism This area will also include exhibits that teach about the Tourism Counter / Office 100

Gift Shop / Book Store 800 flora and fauna of Beringia and the natural history of the

SUBTOTAL 900 area. This area will also include the artifact repository and Eskimo Heritage Program artifact exhibit space. This is a priority for the region but Program Coordinator 120 will also include additional expense to ensure that the Admin Offices (2 stations) 200 area is climate-controlled to preserve the artifacts. Media Recording Room 100 Storage 100 Educational Facilities SUBTOTAL 520 Administration Facilities Educational facilities will include two classrooms and an Administration Office 150 artisan studio and workshop. These spaces will be used Curator Office 100 by visiting researchers, local experts, artists and Program Coordinator 100 community members to teach the culture and natural General Offices 400 history of Beringia. SUBTOTAL 750 SUBTOTAL AREAS ABOVE 10,970 Cultural Tourism Maintenance, Operations Support and Circulation General Storage 300 Particularly during the summer months, this space will Cleaning Janitorial 240 provide an informative and simple route to connect Vestibule/ Entrance Hall 400 visitors to attractions in the region’s villages and areas Coatroom 150 outside of Nome. This space will encourage economic Staff Restrooms 60 development throughout the region, to ensure the Public Restrooms 1200

Shipping and Receiving 400 benefits of the museum are region-wide. This space will

SUBTOTAL 2750 also include a gift shop to generate revenue for the NET EST'D SQUARE FEET 13,720 center and to provide an outlet for artisans from the

ADD 55% FOR CIRCULATION, HVAC+E 7546 region. GROSS EST'D SQUARE FEET 21,266

28 FACILITY DESCRIPTION Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Administration The staff for the facility will include a Museum Director, Administrative Assistant, Program Coordinator, Gift Shop Manager, Seasonal Tour Broker, and two loaned staff positions: Research Coordinator and Museum Curator. Three of these positions will be existing Kawerak staff from the Eskimo Heritage Program. One of the goals of the museum is to grow local talent to enter museum- related fields. The museum will provide an opportunity for local people entering these fields to find professional employment in their home region; as the Beringia Museum grows and develops these opportunities will expand. Maintenance, Operations Support and Circulation These sections of the facility are quite generous because expansive lobbies and hallways are envisioned to provide for additional gathering space within the facility.

Sketches from the 10% Design

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FACILITY DESCRIPTION 29 30 FACILITY DESCRIPTION Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 4: FINANCE: OPERATIONS

Summary of Projected Revenue The facility will be owned and operated by Kawerak, Inc. The Kawerak Board of Directors will be the responsible party for governing the facility and ensuring that funding is available for ongoing operations and maintenance costs. As the owner and operator, Kawerak will be responsible for providing funding for the operations of the facility as well as securing partnerships with local tribes and regional organizations to pay for ongoing costs. Kawerak funds that will be available for this facility include the existing funding for the Eskimo Heritage Program that will be housed in the Beringia Museum. Additional funding will allocated by the Board of Directors from Kawerak sources such as Tumet Industries, Kawerak’s for -profit construction subsidiary, and by moving other existing programs into the facility. Earned income from the facility will include admissions revenue, rental for events, concessions sales and gift shop sales. While grants will be sought for museum programs and projects these are not factored into the operations budget for core operating costs. The following narrative provides additional information for Table 11 ‘Operations Revenue and Expense, 5 Year Projection’ spreadsheet included in this chapter. Revenue Sources Event Income Kawerak staff conducted a survey of other facilities in Nome that currently provide space for events such as conferences and private parties. Given existing supply, an estimate of 20 event- days per year at a fee of $350 per day is included in the revenue plan. The fee is projected to increase to $400/ day in years 4 and 5. This is a conservative estimate that could be increased with marketing efforts. Admissions Using information described in the Market section of this plan, $24,760 is projected for year one project revenue from admissions. This estimate is projected to increase at an annual rate of 3 percent. See Table 10 for the breakdown of user groups and the revenue generated from each. Concessions Sales Concessions sales will include sales of refreshments during events at the Museum and for general visitors. The year one projection is $20,000 with a 3% annual increase. This could be increased if, for example, the museum developed a café with a broader array of offerings. Gift Shop Sales Projected revenue from the gift shop is projected to be $25,000 in year one. Because many of the offerings will be local arts and crafts, which will have limited mark-up potential, the revenue estimate from this source is conservative. If the gift shop sold a broader array of items, revenue generation may be higher.

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FINANCE : : OPERATIONS 31 Tour Commissions No revenue is projected from this source for years one and two because the potential is unknown at this point. If tour operators in the region develop trips to the region’s villages that can be brokered through the office, commissions will be generated. However, much work will need to be done to make this a reality. Revenue for year three is projected at $15,000 with a 5% annual increase.

Table 10. Projected Admissions Revenues

Contracts for Services Kawerak will house the Eskimo Heritage Program in the museum. This is an existing program funded annually through Kawerak’s Compact with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Other programs may also be housed in the museum. Local and Tribal Contributions Kawerak operates a for-profit subsidiary that constructs roads in the region. At the direction of the Kawerak Board of Directors, $500,000 per year will be allocated from this enterprise towards the operation costs of the museum which will increase to $600,000 in year four. Kawerak is also in the process of soliciting partners for the Beringia Museum. These include the tribes and regional organizations located in Nome that serve the Bering Strait region as well as federal organizations such as the National Park Service, and state entities such as the University of Alaska. The City of Nome has been involved in planning efforts and is invited to become a partner in this project. The initial goal is to raise $10,000 in year one, and increase to annual commitments of $35,000 in year two. By year five, Kawerak hopes to engage the City of Nome as a partner in the museum with an annual funding commitment.

32 FINANCE : : OPERATIONS Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan In-kind Contributions Kawerak is in the process of developing partnerships with the University of Alaska Fairbanks and with other museums in Alaska. In order to secure professional staff for the positions of research coordinator and museum curator agreements will be secured for loaned staff from partner institutions. Summary of Expenses Included in the operations budget are the core costs for operating the Beringia Museum. This does not include costs associated with the programs and projects of the museum, as these will be accounted for separately, as they are developed. Expenditures Personnel The facility will operate with a core staff that includes a director, an assistant, a program coordinator, a gift shop manager, and a seasonal tour broker. A 37.45 percent fringe rate is included. Janitorial and maintenance staff will also be provided for the facility, however, the costs for these have been factored into the operations and maintenance section below. Other This category includes office related costs for supplies, training, communications, and miscellaneous. Facility Operations and Maintenance This budget uses a per square foot annual estimate of $21.43 to cover facility operations and maintenance. This figure is based on actual operating costs for 2006-7 for two similar properties owned by Kawerak, Inc. It includes: janitorial salary & supplies, maintenance, utilities, interest expense, depreciation and property tax. The budget includes a 4 percent annual increase in these costs. Repair and Replacement Reserve Allocations for facility and equipment cost depreciation have been factored into the facility operations and maintenance costs above. Note: If part of the capital cost of the project is paid for through loan financing, payments will need to be added to the operating budget. At this time, it is not known if loan financing will be required, so these additional payments have not been included.

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FINANCE : : OPERATIONS 33

34 FINANCE : : OPERATIONS Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Table 11. Operations Revenue & Expense, 5 year projection

OPERATIONS REVENUE & EXPENSE, 5 YEAR PROJECTION Fiscal Year #1 Fiscal Year #2 Fiscal Year #3 Fiscal Year #4 Fiscal Year #5 Revenue Sources

Item Notes Annual Amount NOTES EARNED INCOME percentage

Event Income 20 event-days per year @ $350/day $7,000 $7,000 $7,000 $8,000 $8,000 Includes increase in fee to $400/ day in years 4 & 5 Admissions See 'Estimated Admissions Revenue' table $ 24,760 $25,503 $26,268 $27,056 $27,868 Includes 3% annual increase Concessions Sales $ 20,000 $20,600 $21,218 $21,855 $22,510 Includes 3% annual increase Gift Shop sales $ 25,000 $26,250 $27,563 $28,941 $30,388 5% annual increase projected Tour commissions $15,000 $15,750 $16,538 Contracts for Services Eskimo Heritage Program$ 97,571.45 $100,499 $103,514 $106,619 $109,818 Includes 3% annual increase Subtotal Earned Income $174,331 22% $179,851 $200,562 $208,220 $215,120

LOCAL AND TRIBAL CONTRIBUTIONS City Government $10,000 Tribal Organizations / Corporations $10,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 Individual Contributions Business Contributions Kawerak Inc. Enterprise $500,000.00 $500,000.00 $500,000.00 $600,000.00 $600,000.00 Endowment income Other Subtotal Local & Tribal Contributions $510,000 63% $535,000 $535,000 $635,000 $645,000

GRANTS State of Alaska Grants Federal Grants Partnerships Other Subtotal Grants $0 0% $0 $0 $0 $0

In-kind (cash replacement) Research Coordinator loaned staff $30.00 $60,000.00 $61,800 $63,654 $65,564 $67,531 Museum Curator loaned staff $30.00 $60,000.00 $61,800 $63,654 $65,564 $67,531 Other Sub-total In-kind (cash replacement) $120,000 15% $123,600 $127,308 $131,127 $135,061

Total Revenues $804,331 100% $838,451 $862,870 $974,347 $995,182

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FINANCE : : OPERATIONS 35 Table 11. Operations Revenue & Expense, 5 year projection (cont’d)

Expenditures

Item Annual Amount NOTES Personnel Administration Hourly Wage Museum Director $40.00 $80,000 $82,400 $84,872 $87,418 $90,041 Includes 3% annual increase for salaries Administrative Assistant $18.00 $36,000 $37,080 $38,192 $40,102 $41,305 Program Coordinator $28.00 $56,000 $57,680 $59,410 $62,381 $64,252 Gift Shop Manager half-time $28.00 $28,000 $28,840 $29,705 $31,190 $32,126 Seasonal position for local tour broker $25.00 $25,000 $25,750 $26,523 $27,849 $28,684 Subtotal $225,000 $231,750 $238,703 $248,940 $256,408 Fringe Benefits 37.5% $84,375 $86,906 $89,513 $93,353 $96,153 Subtotal Personnel $309,375 39% $318,656 $328,216 $342,293 $352,562

Other Supplies $9,600 $9,888 $10,185 $15,000 $15,450 Includes 3% annual increase for costs Training/ Professional Development $5,000 $5,150 $5,305 $5,464 $5,628 Communications $10,200 $10,506 $10,821 $11,146 $11,480 Other $9,600 $9,888 $10,185 $10,490 $10,805 Subtotal Other $34,400 4% $35,432 $36,495 $42,100 $43,363

Facility Operations & Maintenance $/SF Estimated SF Fiscal Year 1 Estimated $/SF - Facility $ 21.43 21,266 $455,730 $473,960 $492,918 $512,635 $533,140 Includes 4% annual increase for facility operation costs Subtotal Facility Operations & Maintenance $455,730 57% $473,960 $492,918 $512,635 $533,140

Repair & Replacement Reserve INCLUDED IN FACILITY OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE ` Subtotal Repair & Replacement Reserve 0% $ - $ -

Total Expenditures $799,505 100% $828,048 $857,629 $897,027 $929,064 Revenues Less Expenditures: Surplus (Deficit) $4,826 $10,404 $5,241 $77,320 $66,117

36 FINANCE : : OPERATIONS Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 7: FINANCE: CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

Project Cost Estimate A capital cost estimate was prepared based on the 10% conceptual design. Based on a 2009 bid date this estimate projected a $673.30 per square foot construction cost, with additional costs included for site development, design and project development, construction administration, exhibit design and construction, fixtures, furnishings and equipment and move-in. The total project cost estimate is $23,092,448 includes project planning, development and fundraising costs. Table 12 breaks down the capital costs for the facility. Table 13 itemizes all costs included in the project cost estimate. Table 12. Capital Cost Estimate

Beringia Museum of Culture and Science ESTIMATED FACILITY PROGRAM SQUARE FEET NOTES

Gathering Place

SUBTOTAL 4400 Gallery

SUBTOTAL 2000 Educational Facilities

SUBTOTAL 2400 Cultural Tourism

SUBTOTAL 900 Eskimo Heritage Program

SUBTOTAL 520 Administration Facilities

SUBTOTAL 750

SUBTOTAL AREAS ABOVE 10,970 Maintenance, Operations Support and Circulation

SUBTOTAL 2750

NET EST'D SQUARE FEET 13,720

ADD 55% FOR CIRCULATION, HVAC+E* 7546

GROSS EST'D SQUARE FEET 21,266 X $673.30 / SF $ 673.30 Based on HMS Estimators cost estimate for 2009 bid - Total Site & Building Construction Costs $ 14,318,398 il Plus $90,500 allowance included for property replat Design & Project Development Costs $ 4,234,653 22% and permitting; plus $994,105 allowance for ditti dfi Construction Administration Costs$ 286,368 2% FF&E & Move-in Costs$ 1,002,288 7% Based on cost estimate from Roto Studio Exhibits$ 1,125,000 2500 sf @ $450/ sf Total Project Costs$ 20,966,706

* HVAC+E = heating, ventilation, air conditioning and electrical Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FINANCE : : CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT 37 Fundraising Strategy The construction of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science will require a major capital campaign to secure funding for total project costs. Kawerak will need to rely on a mix of funding sources to meet construction costs: local fundraising, private foundations, state and federal appropriation, federal grants and possibly a loan secured by the federal government. Table 13 below describes the recommended fundraising strategy. This fundraising strategy assumes a significant local contribution to project costs. This will demonstrate to outside funders that there is strong local support for the project. Local cost share will be in the form of cash, land and cash-replacement contributions from project partners. If necessary, the project may apply for funding assistance in the form of a guaranteed loan from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) that can also be applied as local match. A full project cost estimate is included below. A major capital campaign will solicit funding from all of the local funding sources and the major funding entities in Alaska whose interests overlap with the mission of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science. Further discussion is needed to determine which of these are solid prospects and the exact level of funding that can be expected. This is ongoing and will continue throughout the project planning phase.

38 FINANCE : : CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Table 13. Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Full Project Budget

BERINGIA MUSEUM OF CULTURE AND SCIENCE

PROJECT BUDGET

Percentage of Total Cost Land Costs Land Total Land Costs $ 272,500 1%

Project Planning & Capital Campaign Business Plan Development $ 45,000 Conceptual facility design $ 60,000 Conceptual exhibit design $ 15,000 Project Director Salary + fringe$ 93,600 6 years$ 561,600 Adminstrative Assistance salary + fringe$ 71,500 3 years$ 214,500 Museum Director salary + fringe$ 95,000 3 years$ 285,000 Leadership Team Strategic Capital Campaign Plan$ 20,000 Capital Campaign Consultation & Proposal Development$ 80,000 Museum program planning consultation$ 30,000 2 years$ 60,000 Travel - village leadership; staff; contractors$ 142,260 $ 142,260 Project Meetings & Events$ 20,000 3 years$ 60,000 Project equipment phone + computer$ 6,600

Kawerak Indirect Costs $ 303,282

Total Project Planning & Capital Campaign$ 1,853,242 8%

Construction Costs Site and Construction Costs 21,266 gross square feet (see detailed cost estimate)

Total Site and Building Construction Costs$ 14,318,398 62%

Design and Project Development Costs Architectural Engineering Fees 12%$ 1,718,208 Project Management Costs/Development Fee 10%$ 1,431,840 Development Costs Legal Title, Appraisal, Insurance Allow$ 40,500 Property Replat $ 50,000 Administration and Finance 5%$ 994,105

Total Design and Project Development Costs$ 4,234,653 18%

Construction Administration Costs Owners Representative 2%$ 286,368 Total Construction Administration Costs$ 286,368 1%

FFE, Exhibits and Move In Costs FF&E + Move-In Costs 7%$ 1,002,288 Exhibit design and construction 2500 sf @ $450/sf $ 1 ,125,000

Total FFE, Exhibits and Move In Costs$ 2,127,288 9%

TOTAL PROJECT COSTS$ 23,092,448

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan FINANCE : : CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT 39 40 FINANCE : : CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan 8: GOVERNANCE & SITE ISSUES

Ownership The facility will be owned and managed by Kawerak, Inc. Kawerak’s Board of Directors will oversee the planning, fundraising, operation, maintenance, and policy development for the facility and its programs. Partners Kawerak, Inc. has been working with several other entities in the planning of this facility and program. Some or all of these entities – such as local village corporations from the region, City of Nome, National Park Service and University of Alaska, Fairbanks – are likely to become partners in the facility and its programs. These partners are included in the organizational structure of the facility. Management Structure Organizational Chart Kawerak, Inc. is the sponsoring entity for the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Leadership Team and a sponsor of the Eskimo Heritage Program for the Bering Strait region. This Leadership Team serves as the region’s Beringia advisory committee, for the purpose of a Federal ANA planning grant; and as the planning body for the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Project. The purpose of the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Leadership Team is to serve the people, communities, state and federal agencies and businesses of the Beringia Region by promoting cultural and scientific education, resulting in economic opportunities that improve the educational, economic, social, and cultural quality of life for people in Beringia. The Leadership Team is composed to represent the diverse social, cultural, educational, economic, and environmental interests of the region. The Leadership Team members shall encourage cultural and economic development within the Bering Strait Region of Alaska through the careful planning of a sustainable museum and cultural center The Beringia Museum of Culture and Science Leadership Team is composed of affiliates who sign Memoranda of Understanding with Kawerak to become invested in the Beringia Museum Project. Each Leadership Team member has one vote. Members represent such interests as culture, education, science, tourism, commerce, fishing, labor, education, utilities, natural resources, workforce development, the professions and including local elected officials, the regional Native Corporation and the non-profit regional Native Corporation. By-laws The by-laws that govern the Beringia Museum of Culture and Science are intended to allow for clear decision-making structure among a diversity of interests and views regarding the management of the facility and its programs. Facility Site Selection Area & Site map In the initial stages of the project, several sites were considered for the facility. Early on in this process, the first choice for the facility’s location became clear. The preferred site selected by the Kawerak Board is commonly known as lots 3, 4, 5 and 6 on Block 54 in downtown Nome. This property is currently vacant and owned by Kawerak, Inc. This site is zoned General Use, and will not require a rezone for the proposed use of the facility.

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan GOVERNANCE & SITE ISSUES 41 The lot is conveniently located near Nome’s downtown area and is directly across the street from Kawerak, Inc.’s main office building. In addition to its attractive location near hotels, schools, residences and Kawerak staff, the site is also easily accessible for water, sewer and other utilities and has good access for pedestrians and vehicles. A site map and topographic sketch up are included below. Site planning studies conducted during the 10% design phase will inform the design team on building orientation and the appropriate location and access points of the building, along with parking, service and pedestrian entries. Site Requirements Table 14. Site Requirements

Occupant load calculation for parking purposes Occupants Parking Ratios Total Parking Required Gathering place 100 25% 25 Maintenance/Operations personnel 2 75% 2 Subtotal 27 Outdoor classrooms See Open Space Interpretive structures Fish drying racks, sleds, cache, boat

Parking/Access SITE PROGRAM spaces sf/space Buses- Drop Off/Pick up 1 900 900 Tour/ Cruise company buses Public Parking 27 350 9,450 Does not include street parking

Subtotal 10,350

Building area 16,104

Subtotal 26,454 Open Space 20% 5,291 Percentage of Bldg Area

Existing Site = Approx. 28,024 sf (.64 acres) TOTAL SITE AREA REQUIRED 31,745 sf 0.73 acres

42 GOVERNANCE & SITE ISSUES Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan Site Control The site is owned by Kawerak, Inc., the entity that will own and manage the facility and its programs.

Figure 4. Site location within downtown Nome area

Beringia Museum of Culture & Science : : Facility Business Plan GOVERNANCE & SITE ISSUES 43

REFERENCES

“A Profile of Visitors to Rural Alaska and the Bering Strait Region.” DCCED, March 2006. “Alaska Community Histories.” Explore North. http://explorenorth.com/library/communities/alaska/bl-commindex.htm (accessed January 12, 2007). “Bird Checklists of the United States: Koyukuk National Wildlife Refuge.” USGS, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/birds/chekbird/r7/koyukuk.htm (accessed December 20, 2006). Chance, Norman. “Exploring the Past: An archeological journey.” Arctic Circle, University of Connecticut. http://arcticcircle.uconn.edu/HistoryCulture/journey.html (accessed January 10, 2007). Chukot Autonomous Okrug. http://www.chukotka.org/root/?lang=en (accessed January 10, 2007). “Introduction to Beringia.” Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre. www.beringia.com/what.html (accessed January 15, 2007). National Park Service Public Use Statistics Office. “2005 Statistical Abstract.” National Park Service. http://www2.nature.nps.gov/stats/abst2005.pdf (accessed January 12, 2007). “Nome: Area Tourism Demand, Potential & Infrastructure Study.” ADOT&PF, 2003. “Seward Peninsula.” DCCED, DART. http://www.dced.state.ak.us/oed/dart/seward_pen.htm (accessed December 19, 2006). “Western Alaska: Nome and Vicinity.” http://www.alaskajourney.com/western/nome.html (accessed January 11, 2007). “What is Beringia?” National Park Service. http://www.nps.gov/akso/beringia/whatisberingia2.htm (accessed January 20, 2007).