Denali–The Alaska Gas Pipeline is employing fewer people than it was earlier in its effort to advance a natural gas project.

Spokesman Dave MacDowell said the scope of work determines staffing levels and Denali has finished the technical and field work necessary for this portion of the project. The focus now is on negotiations with possible shippers.

Denali, a joint effort of BP and Conoco Phillips, is competing to advance a major line that would carry gas from Alaska's North Slope to market.

MacDowell said Denali has had a core team of 80 to 90 people, mainly from BP and Conoco, plus contractors and hundreds of Alaskans working for contractors. Staffing now stands at about 30 or 40.

He said the market will dictate the company's next steps.

Copyright (c) 2011, Anchorage Daily News, Alaska. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.