River Center
The River Center is a multi-agency permitting, outreach, and education center. We have two agencies housed at the River Center that work together to protect and restore the rivers of the Kenai Peninsula, its watersheds, and its fish and wildlife resources.
River Center personnel also work closely with other state, local, and federal offices to further our mission, including: the Kenai Watershed Forum, US Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska State Parks, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, and others.
Our Programs
Our programs focus on landowner education and permitting for natural resources and other zoned developments within the borough. Programs at the River Center include:
What's Happening at the River Center?
KPB 21.06 FEMA Floodplain Map Update
KPB has been working with FEMA to update the Kenai River’s regulatory floodplain maps, also known as Flood Insurance Rate Maps or FIRMs. The Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly adopted Ordinance 2024-35 at their February 4, 2025 meeting. The final maps and study are effective as of February 28, 2025.
Additional information regarding the new maps may be found at Kenai River Flood Map Update. A floodplain determination for your property may be requested at Floodplain Determination Request.
Other Resources
Cook Inlet Beluga Whale Final Reports
Visitor Information
The Donald E. Gilman River Center is a multi-agency facility primarily charged with the enforcement of regulations for watersheds in the Kenai Peninsula. Therefore, we are not able to provide specific recommendations when choosing vendors, accomodations, guides, etc.
Please feel free to visit the links below for additional visitor information.
