The Alaska Marine Highway System ferry Columbia will be part of an international science experiment starting this fall when it resumes its weekly run between Bellingham, Wash., and Southeast Alaska.
Climate Change
For third year in a row, Alaska seabirds wash up dead
About 800 dead birds have been discovered along the coast of the Bering Sea. Early lab results don’t point to disease — it appears the birds are starving to death.
Alaska teens ask state to stop delaying action on climate change
The teens hand delivered a petition to the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation, asking for reduced carbon emissions and a strategy moving forward.
Community members, archaeologists race against time at Nunalleq
It’s been eight years since a small team began excavating an ancient village outside of Quinhagak. Now, archaeologists and tribal leaders are saving what they can before the site washes away. This summer, volunteers worked to recover what they could.
One man’s quest to find Glacier Bay’s ecological Holy Grail
William S. Cooper left directions from over 100 years ago. But rediscovering the lost research plots in Glacier Bay required an epic adventure.
Tribal conference considers climate change impacts
Southeast tribal governments are meeting with biologists and other experts during the Southeast Environmental Conference Sept. 5-8 in Wrangell. They’re planning for the impacts of climate change.
Tillerson proposes scrapping Arctic and climate envoys
The proposal comes just months after Tillerson visited Alaska and spoke about the importance of the Arctic. Some worry it’s a sign the Trump administration will be less engaged in the region.
The melancholy Juneau summer of blue ice
This year’s Juneau Icefield Research Program included a focus on art and science communication, in addition to the usual studies of the ice, ecology, and weather and climate of the icefield.
Gold claims expand as Herbert Glacier retreats
A Canadian mineral exploration firm expands drilling around the Herbert Glacier. This comes as the Juneau mayor’s mining task force considers streaming the city’s review authority.
Juneau Assembly reaffirms commitment to climate goals
The Juneau Assembly voted 6-3 to reaffirm its commitment to combating climate change. Opponents argued against interjecting into a national debate.