After 10 years of certification, Gulf of Alaska cod will have its blue-sticker sustainability label suspended.
Oceans
Dutch Harbor remains nation’s top fishing port for volume
Dutch Harbor has been named the nation’s top fishing port in terms of volume for the 22nd consecutive year. But the port dropped from second to third place in terms of value.
Endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales continue to decline, and scientists aren’t sure why
In 2008, Cook Inlet beluga whales were listed as endangered. Their numbers still continue to drop: There are fewer than 300 today, and they’re steadily declining.
A second ‘Blob’ marine heat wave has disappeared, but the warming trend will continue, scientists say
The first “Blob” decimated fisheries, caused a mass seabird die-off and spurred toxic algal blooms up and down the coast. As Alaska braced for the second heat wave, it disappeared — at least for now.
Dramatic ocean changes are coming ‘a couple decades too early,’ scientists say
One researcher says now is a key time for studies on Arctic Ocean conditions, before hotter temperatures from climate change become the new normal.
Alaska DEC seeks to replace Ocean Rangers, use some funds for shoreside wastewater plants
Alaska lawmakers received an updated proposal from the Dunleavy administration to replace the Ocean Rangers with a state-run inspection regime.
When the Scandies Rose sunk, he survived. Now he’s grappling with losing his crewmates.
“I see the boat penciled — straight up and down in the air. The bow was straight up in the air, and then it sinks. My heart drops. I tried to do everything I could to get those guys out.”
2019 was highest value year on record for Dungeness crab in Southeast Alaska
The next crab season in Southeast will open in mid-February.
Gulf of Alaska cod appears likely to lose key sustainability label
Climate change is threatening Alaska’s longstanding reputation for sustainable fisheries. In just a few months, Gulf of Alaska cod may be losing its blue sticker.
Kivalina joins four Louisiana tribes in a formal complaint to the United Nations about coastal erosion
Last week, the Native Village of Kivalina joined four Louisiana tribes in a formal complaint to the United Nations.