From Bethel, Supporting Our Neighbors Across Western Alaska

Photo courtesy of Travel Alaska

Delta Western’s local response following flooding

When severe flooding displaced families across western Alaska last fall, villages along the southwest coast faced damaged fuel systems, disrupted transportation, and limited access to essential services. More than 1,000 residents were forced to leave their homes, with many evacuating to Bethel.

As local response efforts ramped up, Delta Western’s Bethel team worked alongside state agencies, contractors, and community partners to support recovery activities across the region. From supplying fuel for rebuilding projects to helping restore basic infrastructure, the team focused on keeping critical services operating during challenging winter conditions.

With deep roots in western Alaska, the Bethel team understands how closely fuel access is tied to healthcare, transportation, and day-to-day stability in remote communities. That local perspective shaped their approach throughout the response.

A Local Team Taking Action

Under the leadership of Site Manager Don Robbins, Delta Western’s Bethel team coordinated closely with the State of Alaska and its contractors to support response and recovery efforts across the region. Despite difficult winter conditions and logistical challenges, the team focused on providing practical support where it was most needed.

During the response, the Bethel team:

• Provided fuel for state contractors and aviation operators involved in rebuilding

• Donated and repurposed more than 30 used fuel drums, and supplied additional new drums, to heat village clinics and operate runways after traditional fuel supply and storage systems were damaged or destroyed by the typhoon

• Distributed fuel donation cards for 50 households that opened their homes to residents from affected villages.

“It has been our honor to assist in any way possible,” said Robbins. “Every time the community needs support, we will be there to aid in the ways only professional fuel distributors can.”

A Commitment That Continues

For more than 40 years, Delta Western has operated across western and southeast Alaska through local teams who live and work in the communities they serve. That long-term presence allows teams to respond quickly, coordinate effectively, and maintain essential services when conditions become difficult.

The Bethel team’s support following last fall’s flooding reflects that ongoing commitment. Not only during emergencies, but year-round, through dependable service and community partnerships.

To read more stories from Delta Western sites across Alaska, check out our community stories.