The Alaska State Legislature is taking steps to honor the legacy of Vic Fisher, a pivotal figure in the state's history, by proposing to name a marine park after him. During a recent House Resources meeting, legislators discussed House Bill 79, which aims to designate the marine park in Shute Bay as the Vic Fisher Shute Bay Marine State Park. This initiative comes as a tribute to Fisher's extensive contributions to Alaska, including his role in the statehood movement and his involvement in the drafting of the state constitution.

Fisher, who passed away 18 months ago, was instrumental in planning many Alaskan communities, including Valdez, following the devastating 1964 earthquake. His efforts led to the establishment of the state's first marine parks, which have since become vital for outdoor recreation and conservation. The proposed bill has no fiscal impact, as the state park system will simply update signage as part of its regular operations.

Jane Engvick, Fisher's widow, expressed her support for the bill during the meeting, highlighting Fisher's passion for the outdoors and his dedication to creating safe spaces for recreational activities in Alaska. She noted that the marine parks have become essential for boaters and kayakers, providing necessary refuge along the state's vast waterways.

The committee members showed support for the bill, with no questions raised during the discussion. As the legislative process continues, the recognition of Vic Fisher's contributions is expected to resonate with many Alaskans, reinforcing the importance of preserving the state's natural resources and honoring those who have shaped its history.