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Kenai News
News: Kenai River Sockeye Run Breaks 20-Year Record
The Kenai River is seeing its strongest early sockeye salmon run since 2005, with over 450,000 fish counted as of june 20. Alaska Department of Fish and Game biologists have doubled the daily bag limit to 6 fish per angler, sparking a tourism boom for local guides and lodges.
Business News: New $15 Million Processing Plant Opens
Kenai Seafoods has inaugurated a state-of-the-art salmon processing facility on the Kenai Spur Highway. The plant features robotic filleting machines and flash-freezing technology, creating 85 new jobs and increasing local processing capacity by 40%.
Economic News: Kenai Peninsula Tourism Revenue Up 35%
Visitor spending in the Kenai area has surged to $28 million for May-June 2025, driven by exceptional fishing and new wildlife viewing opportunities. Hotels report 95% occupancy rates, while RV parks are completely booked through July.
Legal News: City Implements Stricter Bear Safety Ordinances
The Kenai City Council passed new regulations requiring bear-proof trash containers citywide after a record 28 bear encounters this spring. The ordinance includes fines up to $500 for violations and takes effect August 1.
Science & Technology News: UAA Launches Marine Research Vessel
The University of Alaska Anchorage has based its new $8 million research vessel, the R/V Cook Inlet, at the Kenai dock. The ship will study climate change impacts on salmon habitats and features an underwater drone lab.
Health & Fitness News: Unit Opens at CPH
Central Peninsula Hospital has completed its $12 million cardiac care expansion, including a new catheterization lab and rehabilitation center. The unit will serve the entire Kenai Peninsula, reducing the need for patients to travel to Anchorage.
Entertainment News: Kenai River Festival Draws 10,000 Visitors
The 37th Annual Kenai River Festival set attendance records with 10,000 visitors enjoying live music, artisan booths, and the popular "Salmon Olympics" competition. Event organizers donated $50,000 to river conservation efforts.
7-Day Forecast Forecast for Kenai
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Tuesday: Sunny, 68°F
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Wednesday: AM showers, 65°F
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Thursday: Partly cloudy, 67°F
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Friday: Light rain, 62°F
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Saturday: Mostly sunny, 70°F
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Sunday: Scattered showers, 66°F
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Monday: Clear skies, 72°F
Upcoming Events in Kenai (June 27-July 2025)
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town: Kenai River Dipnet Fishery Opens (July 10)
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Movies: "The Salmon Run" documentary premiere (June 20)
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Theater: "Northern Lights" at Kenai Performers (June 21-29)
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Festivals: Solstice Music Festival (June 21-22)
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Concerts: Kenai Symphony on the Bluff (June 25)
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town: Kenai Midnight Sun Marathon (June 28)
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Movies: Outdoor Film Night at Kenai Beach (June 27)
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Festivals: Fourth of July Celebration (July 4)
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Concerts: Bluegrass on the Kenai (July 5-6)
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Theater: "Fish Tales" Children's Theater (July 8-12)
Additional Notes
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Bear sightings are frequent along river trails - carry bear spray
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Road construction continues on Kalifornsky Beach Road
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King salmon restrictions remain in effect on the Kasilof River
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Free fishing days for youth June 21-22
This Kenai news summary highlights why Alaska's "Salmon Capital" continues to be a premier destination for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, while embracing sustainable growth and innovation. From record salmon runs to cutting-edge seafood processing, Kenai remains at the heart of Southcentral Alaska's economy and culture.
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