animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         MEET DR. MARKUS HORNING Pinniped Ecologist and Associate Professor at Oregon State University WHAT HE STUDIES: - Diving animal behavior - Life history of diving animals EDUCATION: Ph.D. Zoology Diploma Degree Biology HOMETOWN: Rome, Italy ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT WORKING IN ANTARCTICA IS... "Antarctica is as close as we as humans can get to see what it might be like to work on a different planet. It's almost like being out in a different world entirely. [When working on the sea ice,] you're out in the middle of nowhere. There's only ice and cold and blue and white, and crazy animals you never see anywhere else around you. It's amazing!"  Dr. Horning talks about Antarctic working conditions - and imitates a Weddell seal! (1:07) Video Transcript Dr. Markus Horning: "There's also something really unique though about the Antarctic and paradoxically makes the seals that we work with, to us, more accessible. We actually spend most of our time at sea, even though we’re driving around Ski-Doos because the sea is frozen, but then literally the seals are underneath us as we’re walking around on the sea ice and the seals are doing their thing and they come back to the surface and they’re right next to us. And they make amazing sounds and you hear the sound through the ice." Dr. Jo-Ann Mellish: "I think you need to make the sound for us." Dr. Allyson Hindle: "Markus makes amazing seal sounds." *Dr. Markus Horning imitates seal sounds* *Dr. Jo-Ann Mellish and Dr. Allyson Hindle applaud* *Video footage with audio of seals under ice*   WHO IS STUDYING SEALS?    

Seward, Alaska (March 18, 2015) –The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce the creation of the Alaska SeaLife Center Endowment Fund. A Board of Directors member, who wishes to remain anonymous, has donated stock establishing an endowment fund with the Alaska Community Foundation (ACF). The Alaska SeaLife Center Endowment Fund will support the ASLC in achieving its mission of generating and sharing scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. Specifically, endowment funds generate a predictable stream of income for a nonprofit organization like ASLC, leaving a majority of the assets to grow in perpetuity. An endowment offers the flexibility to meet ASLC’s immediate needs while ensuring assets are always preserved for our long-term mission. The ACF protects the fund’s assets from being spent for any other purpose. “Instead of just focusing on meeting our funding needs today, we are focusing on being here tomorrow. By establishing an endowment we are building a source of unrestricted operating revenue that will support us forever,” said ASLC President and CEO Dr. Tara Riemer. For example, your gift today will be invested by the ACF and will earn returns every year from the moment you make it. That means a gift of $1,000 today is a gift of $50 every year permanently to the Alaska SeaLife Center. The Alaska SeaLife Endowment Fund welcomes gifts of all kinds including cash, bequests, stock, real estate, life insurance and retirement assets. Gifts can be made online through the ACF at https://alaskacf.org/blog/funds/alaska-sealife-center-endowmentor by calling (907) 334-6700. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium, with wildlife response and education programs. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org. About the ACF Established in 1995, the Alaska Community Foundation is a statewide platform for philanthropy that connects people who care with causes that matter. Holding over $83 million in over 315 funds for the benefit of Alaskans, ACF grants $5-6 million each year to charitable projects and nonprofit organizations across the state. Our mission is to cultivate, celebrate and sustain all forms of philanthropy to strengthen Alaska’s communities forever. For more information, visit www.alaskacf.org.

Seward, Alaska (May 29, 2018) –The Alaska SeaLife Center’s (ASLC’s) longest standing research study involves video monitoring of Steller sea lions in Resurrection Bay, which began shortly after the Center opened. Between the 1970s and 2000, Steller sea lions experienced a striking 80 percent collapse in their population throughout much of Alaska. This resulted in their subsequent listing of Endangered in 1997. To understand this species decline and identify potential threats to the population, the Alaska SeaLife Center began a long-term, detailed monitoring study at the Chiswell Island rookery and surrounding areas, in 1999. ASLC researchers use remote video cameras for studying the Steller sea lions in the Gulf of Alaska. However, the cameras, antennas, and related equipment are now long outdated and nearing complete failure. The remote-control video system is essential because researchers may observe these animals from monitors at ASLC without disturbing the sea lions. These animals have long-term histories that extend more than a decade providing researchers with valuable data regarding reproductive success and longevity. It is vital to continue these studies while threats remain to the population. Scientific findings about Steller sea lion behavior and population dynamics have been reported in over 25 peer-reviewed publications, which inform the scientific community and management agencies about this species. ASLC also encourages the public to learn about sea lions by providing 24-7 access to the streaming video feed on Channel 6 in Seward. Tune in this month to observe what the researchers at ASLC are documenting during the 2018 pupping and breeding season. To date, 4 pups have been born and females are continuing to arrive on the island.  The funds received for this project will be used to purchase updated video equipment, wireless antennas and essential hardware. Dr. John Maniscalco, the Chiswell lead scientist states, “With the new equipment, we will continue tracking many individual animals, telling their stories of survival and life challenges to the world.” The team currently hopes to reach their funding goal of $30,000 by October 2018 to enable testing and installation of the equipment by April 2019.The fundraiser is currently set up with GoFundMe at: https://www.gofundme.com/sea-lion  GoFundMe will provide tax receipts to all donors. 

Seward, Alaska (July 16, 2018)– Alexander Havens from the Alaska SeaLife Center has been selected as a 2018 Science Communication Fellow and will sail aboard Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus during its 2018 expedition. Alex will join the Corps of Exploration aboard E/V Nautilus in July and August as they explore off the west coast of Canada. Twenty-one educators and eighteen students from North America have been selected from a competitive pool of applicants by the Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) to participate at sea during the 2018 Nautilus Exploration Program expedition. OET, a nonprofit founded by Dr. Robert Ballard in 2008, has the mission to explore the ocean, seeking out new discoveries in the fields of geology, biology, maritime history, archaeology, physics, and chemistry while pushing the boundaries of STEAM education and technological innovation. The selected educators and students hail from schools, universities, science centers, and non-profit organizations in eighteen states in the US, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Mexico. They will join the Nautilus Corps of Exploration during sea-going expeditions from June through November in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, exploring from British Columbia, Canada, along the West Coast of the US, and west to the Hawaiian Islands. “I have been mesmerized and inspired by the ocean ever since I was a child, and today I work to instill that wonder in others,” said Alex. “Through the Ocean Exploration Trust, I have been given the opportunity to participate in the cutting edge of marine science communication. I am looking forward to bringing ongoing deep-sea science and exploration live to classrooms and audiences of all ages.” As members of the Corps of Exploration, educators and students will stand watch alongside scientists and engineers, as well as participate in live interactions with shore-based audiences via Nautilus Live, a 24-hour web portal bringing expeditions from the field to future explorers on shore via telepresence technology at www.nautiluslive.org and via social media. OET promotes science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) education around the world using the excitement of exploration and innovation to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. “One of the major goals of our Nautilus Exploration Program is to inspire the next generation of explorers in STEAM fields,” said Allison Fundis, OET’s Vice President of Marine Operations and Programs, “we are very excited to provide educators and students with the direct experience of ocean exploration, while allowing them the opportunity to share that experience with their peers around the world.” The 2018 Science Communication Fellowship, an initiative of OET, will bring twenty-one formal and informal educators and communicators together from North America as a part of the Nautilus Corps of Exploration. Fellows are charged with the responsibility of engaging students and the public in the wonders of ocean exploration, sharing discoveries from the 2018 mission, as well as aspects of daily life aboard a working exploration vessel. Fellows receive four days of intensive training at the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography, and then spend two to three weeks aboard E/V Nautilus between the months of June and November, as it explores the Eastern Pacific Ocean. An equally important aspect of the program is for Fellows to bring the expedition and excitement of ocean exploration back to their home communities after they have returned from sea by incorporating their experience into classroom lesson plans, community presentation events, and through informal educational opportunities.   Alaska SeaLife Center Senior Education Manager Jeff Dillon is excited about this opportunity for Alex. “We are very proud of Alex on achieving the honor to serve with the 2018 Nautilus Live crew,” said Dillon. “His dedication to educating a variety of audiences about the wonders in, importance of, and challenges facing the ocean is contagious. He is always looking for new and novel ways to engage the public and we know he will be a perfect fit for his cruise this summer. The Alaska SeaLife Center staff, members, and guests will all benefit greatly from Alex’s participation – congratulations Alex!”  Alex will participate in live audio commentary and question-and-answer sessions through the Nautilus Live website while aboard the ship; he will also engage events and activities upon his return. The public, scientists, educators, and students can join Alex’s adventure while he is at sea via streaming video on www.nautiluslive.org, a 24-hour portal bringing expeditions from the field to onshore audiences through telepresence technology. The public can also follow the expedition on social media – on Twitter as @EVNautilus and on Facebook and Instagram as @NautilusLive – and through in-person live interactions at partner museums, aquaria, and science centers around the world. About the ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) research institution and public aquarium. We are excited to be celebrating 20 years of generating and sharing scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook.     About the Ocean Exploration Trust: The Ocean Exploration Trust was founded in 2008 by Dr. Robert Ballard to explore the ocean, seeking out new discoveries in the fields of geology, biology, maritime history, and archaeology while pushing the boundaries of STEAM education and technological innovation. Our international program is launched from aboard the Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus, offering live exploration to participants on shore and the public via live video, audio, and data feeds. The major 2018 expedition and education sponsors are the NOAA Office of Exploration & Research, the Office of Naval Research, Ocean Networks Canada, NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, NASA Science Mission Directorate PSTAR program, the University of Rhode Island, CITGO, AltaSea, KVH, Global Dynamix, ESS, and additional private donors. Follow us online atwww.nautiluslive.org, on Facebook and Instagram at @NautilusLive, and on Twitter and YouTube as @EVNautilus.  Questions and requests for high resolution photos may be directed to General E/V Nautilus photos. Credit: OET/Nautilus Live. For specific expedition photos, email press@oet.org

Seward, Alaska (December 7, 2020) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a 2-week-old sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on November 12.  The male sea otter pup was spotted by residents near a beachfront home in Homer, Alaska. The good samaritans followed the proper protocols when spotting a wild animal in distress; they called ASLC after observing the otter from a safe distance for over an hour. The pup was vocalizing for quite some time near the water’s edge. When the tide came in, he ended up high and dry on the shore. His dire condition and lack of nearby otters spurred ASLC volunteers to pick him up and transport him to the Center with USFWS permission.  This sea otter pup, initially weighing 5.6 pounds, arrived malnourished and dehydrated. “This pup was in critical condition when he came to us. He was so hungry that he tried to chew the nipple off the baby bottle when we gave him his first feed,” notes Elizabeth deCastro, Veterinarian. While he clearly had an appetite, the team worked to integrate formula slowly to not overwhelm his system and encourage him to eat more moderately.    After a few weeks of providing round-the-clock care for this now 8 pound pup, the staff is cautiously optimistic about his condition. “He is proving to be a very independent pup. He has been exploring his pools extensively and is already taking really good care of his coat,” states Veterinary Assistant Specialist, Hanna Sundstrom. Next steps will be to get him eating more solid food like clam and encourage him to swim and dive in a larger pool.   Due to the Alaska SeaLife Center’s financial setbacks resulting from reduced visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center’s Wildlife Response Program is more reliant on donors than ever before to care for animals like this sea otter pup. ASLC is grateful for the public’s overwhelming response to the Save the Center Campaign launched during the summer. Over 4 million dollars was raised, and 2.3 million of that amount came from individual donors. Thanks to the support, the Alaska SeaLife Center’s doors are still open and the team can continue rescuing stranded and injured animals like this pup. The Center is no longer in immediate jeopardy due to generosity from campaign donors and from Wildlife Response Program donors including ConocoPhillips, BP, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Borman Family Foundation, PetZoo, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, HDR Marine, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products. Ongoing funding is still required to maintain important mission work at the Center and people are encouraged to support Alaska SeaLife Center programs like Wildlife Response at: www.alaskasealife.org/savethecenter. About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

Seward, Alaska (January 8, 2021) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a two-month-old sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on December 12, 2020.   The female pup was found stranded on a beach in Anchor Point near a deceased adult sea otter being scavenged by a bald eagle. The adult otter is speculated to be the pup’s mother although there is no way to confirm. The pup’s close proximity to the bird of prey and her poor body condition spurred ASLC volunteers to quickly transport her to the Center after receiving U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permission.   This sea otter pup, initially weighing 11 pounds, arrived in critical condition and was covered in dirt. The team was immediately concerned that her feces contained organic debris, indicating she had been eating foliage around the beach where she stranded. “Sea otters have a very sensitive gastrointestinal tract which can quickly become inflamed leading to a life threatening situation. In addition to fluids, we gave her medications to combat the inflammation and promote healing,” notes Dr. Elizabeth deCastro, Veterinarian. After days of intensive care, the pup, now named Juniper, stabilized and brightened. The veterinary team continues to monitor her closely.    A male pup named Pushki, rescued in November by the Center, was identified as a perfect companion for Juniper since they are similar size and age. Pushki and Juniper were introduced as soon as their health conditions stabilized. “The pups were initially curious about one another and vocalized back and forth for quite some time. We watched them play, swim, and groom each other, which are all behaviors that we like to see during a sea otter introduction,” states Wildlife Response Curator, Jane Belovarac. The next step will be to introduce the duo to the Center’s third sea otter Lupine, a patient admitted to the Wildlife Response program in July 2020. Once they are all together long term, the pups’ care will not stop. Sea otter’s require 24/7 care from ASLC staff until they are about 6 months of age.    The Wildlife Response Program is able to operate largely due to donors like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Borman Family Foundation, PetZoo, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products. Ongoing funding is still required to maintain important mission work at the Center. One easy way for Alaskan’s to contribute to the mission work is through Pick.Click.Give. Alaskan residents can learn how to donate a portion of their Personal Fund Dividend here: www.pickclickgive.org/index.cfm/pfdorgs.info/Alaska-SeaLife-Center   About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.

Seward, Alaska (May 13, 2021)– The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a juvenile ringed seal to the Wildlife Response Program yesterday on May 12, 2021. The male ringed seal was found in Dutch Harbor, outside the normal range for this species of seal. The animal was monitored on the beach for several days with the help of local volunteers, and it became evident that the seal was losing weight. After receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approval, the animal was transported to the Center. The main concerns of the veterinary team upon the initial admit exam are malnourishment, dehydration, and possible infection. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments and examining the patient further to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. A full press release will be provided with updates on this seal after further monitoring and examination.   The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this ringed seal because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of this patient here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products.  About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a female harbor seal pup to the Wildlife Response Program on July 4, 2021.   The seal was spotted on Fox Island, a popular landmark in Resurrection Bay, on July 3. Observers noticed the animal had a bloody neck and reported it to the ASLC Stranding Hotline. The following day, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officers were able to locate the animal and quickly transport it to the Center.    The veterinary team is focused on treating the many puncture wounds the pup likely sustained from a potential animal attack or failed predation attempt. The team will assess the patient further with radiographs and more in-depth exams to understand the severity of the animal’s condition. Updates on this harbor seal will be provided after further monitoring and examination.     The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this seal because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of this patient here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, SeaWorld Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, Partners4Wildlife, Sea Otter Foundation & Trust, and Grizzly Pet Products.  About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) admitted a two-day-old sea otter pup to the Wildlife Response Program on August 8.   The female pup was found stranded on a remote beach in Seldovia by a family camping nearby. “When we enco untered this tiny creature who looked so helpless, we felt that we had to do something. We remembered hearing that the Alaska SeaLife Center helps to rescue animals in need, so we reached out. Luckily we had cell service where we were camping,” explains the pup’s rescuers, Neil Waggoner and Marisa Jaso. An adult sea otter was spotted in the area, but this animal did not approach the pup. After observing the pup for a day, the family sprung into action.   After receiving U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permission, the team at ASLC reached out to stranding partner, Michael Opheium of the Seldovia Village Tribe, for assistance. He cared for the otter overnight until she could be transported via water taxi to Homer the following day. The Homer Veterinary Clinic was called upon to administer fluids before her long car ride to Seward.    This sea otter pup, weighing just under three pounds, arrived weak but fairly stable. The team was concerned about her initially because generally sea otter pups are very vocal, but this pup arrived more lethargic and silent. “Otter pups are very hands-on animals to begin with so seeing this young pup come out of the kennel, barely reacting to staff, was concerning. After her exam it was crucial to get some calories on board and thankfully she latched onto the bottle right away. She has been eating well since then, so I am cautiously optimistic,” states Hanna Sundstrom, Veterinary Assistant Specialist. After a few days of care, the pup has brightened, but the veterinary team is continuing to monitor her closely.    While eight harbor seal pups are currently being cared for at the Center, this is the first sea otter pup admitted to the Wildlife Response Program in 2021. Sea otter pups require round-the-clock care so staffing will change drastically in the rehabilitation department in order to feed and groom her every two hours. The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can provide care for animals like this sea otter pup because of donations from corporate sponsors and individual donors. People are encouraged to contribute to the care of this patient here: www.alaskasealife.org/donate. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from  companies like ConocoPhillips, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Borman Family Foundation, GCI, and Sea Otter Foundation & Trust.    About ASLC  Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a 501(c)(3), non-profit research institution and public aquarium in Seward, Alaska. The Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.    

The Alaska SeaLife Center’s (ASLC) Wildlife Response Program now has three harbor seal pups under its care after the admit of two new patients — one female from Kachemak Bay on May 20, and another female from the Copper River Delta on May 27. The first pup was spotted by kayakers near Bradley Lake power plant, and images identified it as a premature birth due to its white lanugo coat (typically shed in utero). Unfortunately, the pup’s location along mud flats would make access difficult for most boats —  a situation compounded by a high wind advisory that day. After many hours on the phone with Homer water taxis and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) law enforcement, rescue attempts had to be called off. Two days later, the situation took a fortunate turn when a second party called with similar reports of a lanugo pup in the same area. Pictures sent matched those from the original call, leading staff to conclude it was likely the same seal. Because the party had a small skiff already beached in the area, they agreed to retrieve the seal and transport it from Kachemak Bay to Homer, where it was handed off to ASLC staff and transported back to Seward. This newest patient is the third lanugo pup to be admitted this season (the first of which died soon after admit due to challenges related to its premature birth, and the second of which remains under the care of wildlife response staff). The second abandoned pup report came from a Cordova State Wildlife Trooper on behalf of a fleet of commercial fishermen. The fisherman reported that the seal had been seen without its mother for multiple days, and was beginning to appear exhausted. With permission from NOAA, a wildlife trooper landed a plane on a nearby beach and took possession of the seal to be transported to the ASLC. The pup stayed the night in Cordova, receiving supportive care from local medical personnel, before catching a flight to Anchorage the following day. The pup was then picked up by NOAA officials and handed off to ASLC wildlife response staff. During their initial admit exams, both pups were found to be underweight and dehydrated, with the premature pup suffering additionally from malnourishment and several surface wounds. Because premature harbor seal pups have only about a 50% survival rate when admitted to a wildlife response program, delicate care will be necessary. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments to both patients and keeping a close watch to ensure the best possible chance of survival. Updates will be shared on the ASLC’s Facebook and Instagram pages as they become available. Call first! Before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal in Alaska, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325).  The Alaska SeaLife Center’s Wildlife Response Program can only provide care for stranded and injured marine animals with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. The Center acknowledges the ongoing generous support of the Wildlife Response Program from supporters like ConocoPhillips Alaska, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as Stanley J Williams Fund and the Theresa Bannister Legacy Fund. Those interested in contributing to the care of these patients can visit the ASLC’s website: www.alaskasealife.org/donate.  

The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) Wildlife Response Program now has six harbor seal pups under its care after the admission of two new patients — a male from Naknek admitted on June 17, and a female from Wrangell admitted on June 22.    The first pup was spotted by locals at a site in Naknek and reported to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wildlife Refuge in King Salmon, AK, who contacted ASLC. Photos showed the pup was in poor condition, prompting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to authorize pickup. However, rescue efforts were complicated when the pup returned to the water and became entangled in a net before responders arrived. Fortunately, locals were able to free the pup, and it was transferred to a USFWS biologist and driven to a local airport for a flight to Anchorage. Here, staff from NOAA were able to coordinate the final leg of its journey to the ASLC for care.   The second pup was spotted in Wrangell, AK, hauled out on a rocky beach where seals are not typically seen. This raised concerns for two local beach walkers who reached out to NOAA. The seal’s skinny condition suggested prolonged separation from its mother, leading NOAA to approve rescue efforts. When a flight that night could not be coordinated, the observers mobilized help from fellow rescue members and were able to give it medical treatments overnight. Transportation to Anchorage was arranged the following day thanks to Alaska Airlines cargo staff in Wrangell. The seal arrived safely and was transported to the ASLC.   In addition to low weight, dehydration, and malnourishment, additional complications required quick action from veterinary staff. For the Naknek pup, a dangerously high body temperature was the most immediate concern. Meanwhile, the Wrangell pup arrived with persistent tremors due to a lack of nourishment. The team is currently providing initial stabilizing treatments to both patients and keeping a close watch to ensure the best possible chance of survival. Updates will be shared on the ASLC’s Facebook and Instagram pages as they become available.   The ASLC Wildlife Response Program can only succeed with help from corporate sponsors and individual donors. The Center acknowledges ongoing support from ConocoPhillips Alaska, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, PetZoo, Partners 4 Wildlife, Matson, GCI, and a number of individual donors, funds, and foundations such as the Stanley J Williams Fund and the Theresa Bannister Legacy Fund. Those interested in contributing to the care of these patients can visit the ASLC’s website: www.alaskasealife.org/donate.   Call first! Before approaching an injured or stranded marine animal in Alaska, call the 24-hour Stranded Marine Animal Hotline at 1-888-774-SEAL(7325).     

Seward, Alaska — On January 27, 2025, the Executive Office of the President issued an executive order temporarily pausing agency grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. This order takes effect on January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.  The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has been aware of the possibility of such a measure and has been proactively planning to address its potential impacts. We have already begun implementing steps to mitigate these effects and ensure the continuity of our critical programs and operations.  The care and well-being of the animals entrusted to ASLC remain the organization’s highest priority. "We want to assure the public that our animals will continue to receive the world-class care they deserve," said Dr. Wei Ying Wong, President and CEO of the Alaska SeaLife Center.  "Their health and safety are non-negotiable, and we are allocating resources to ensure this  commitment is upheld."  The funding freeze represents a challenge but reaffirms the necessity for ASLC to continue diversifying its funding sources to ensure greater long-term stability for its mission-critical work.  "We understand that times of uncertainty can be difficult," Wei Ying continued. "Our team is working diligently to evaluate the full scope of this situation and its implications. As we navigate  this road ahead, we are committed to transparency and keeping our community and stakeholders  informed."  The Alaska SeaLife Center remains steadfast in its mission to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The  organization appreciates the ongoing support of its staff, partners, and community as it works to build a stronger, more sustainable future.  

Join us for this week-long virtual fundraising event!    Sitting at the doorstep of the glacier-carved Kenai Fjords National Park and surrounded by a network of science-based partners, the Alaska SeaLife Center is uniquely positioned to study the region’s seabirds. Our avian team pairs field surveys with controlled studies of resident flocks to reveal how seabirds shape – and are shaped by – a changing environment, while providing hands-on opportunities for students and citizen scientists in our community. With a small gift, you can join this network and support research that guides conservation, informs husbandry, and inspires a new generation of seabird stewards and scientists.     Our "Roundup" event is held each fall on the Alaska SeaLife Center’s social media pages, and this year, we're focusing on our seabird research efforts at the ASLC.    Fans and followers from around the world can learn more about the critical seabird research being done at the ASLC with daily social media posts on Facebook and Instagram.  We hope these stories inspire donations that will benefit a mission-critical program at the Center. This week only (September 15 - 21, 2025) Become a Seabird Steward by donating $25 or more and receive a limited-edition seabird research supporter sticker! Join our flock of seabird stewards and help protect these incredible birds: Donate today!    This year's sticker, created by one of our talented in-house graphic designers:  A preview of the stories:  Photostory: Puffin Poop with a Puspose Blog: Kittlitz's Murrelet and the Kenai Fjords   Video: Voluntary Research with ASLC Common Murres Video: Part 1: Resurrection Bay Seabird Surveys | On the Water with ASLC Seabird Researchers! Video: Part 2: Resurrection Bay Seabird Surveys | The Importance of Long-term Data Collection

          WELCOME, TEACHERS! The Alaska SeaLife Center and Gulf Watch Alaska are excited to present this virtual field trip (VFT). Join the Gulf Watch Alaska team of scientists as they investigate the long term effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on the ecosystems of the Gulf of Alaska. Learn about the work of a collaborative team of scientists from many different ocean science disciplines, who represent over 15 different government agencies, non-profit research institutions, and universities. GRADE LEVEL: 6-8th TIME NEEDED: Between one and four 1-hour class periods (teachers may choose to use all or only some of the supplementary lessons). NUTSHELL: Students will learn about the long-term monitoring projects that have been studying the effects of the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill in Prince William Sound and the northern Gulf of Alaska. They will explore the various projects and how, collectively, they can inform us about the overall ecosystem. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After completing this virtual field trip, students will be able to: • Explain how the long-term monitoring project called Gulf Watch Alaska was founded and what its overall goals are. • Understand the collaborative nature of science and how researchers from various disciplines working together can provide a ‘big picture’ view of a massive project. • Explain the various levels of a biome and how all components of an ecosystem depend upon each other for a healthy environment. BACKGROUND: In this virtual field trip, students will meet various scientists and researchers working for the Gulf Watch Alaska long-term ecosystem monitoring program, a project of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council, encompassing the marine ecosystems affected by the 1989 oil spill. This program is organized into four related ecosystem monitoring components, with data management, modeling, and synthesis components providing overall integration across the program. This VFT can be used in a number of ways. Individuals may navigate through the pages on their own and meet the scientists through the links provided on the right-hand bar. Self-guided exploration can be completed in a couple of hours. Alternatively, teachers may facilitate a structured experience, working through each page of the VFT together in a class. Lesson plans (links included on the right-hand column of this page) are available to supplement online content. TO USE THIS VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP YOU WILL NEED: • Internet access, video-streaming capabilities • Projection system (with audio) to display content or a computer lab (with headphones) • Corresponding lesson plans (linked as PDFs in the right hand column of this page) UNABLE TO RUN THE STREAMING VERSION? REQUEST A FREE COPY OF ALL MATERIALS ON CD BY EMAILING education@alaskasealife.org. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: • Gulf Watch Alaska • Alaska Ocean Observing System • Nearshore Ecosystem Projects • Ecological Trends in Kachemak Bay • Nearshore Benthic Systems in the Gulf of Alaska • National Park Service SWAN Nearshore Monitoring • Environmental Drivers Projects • Continuous Plankton Recorder • Gulf of Alaska Mooring (GAK1) Monitoring • Oceanographic Conditions in Lower Cook Inlet and Kachemak Bay • Oceanographic Conditions in Prince William Sound • The Seward Line: Marine Ecosystem Monitoring in the Northern Gulf of Alaska • Lingering Oil Projects • Weathering and Tracking • Harlequin ducks and sea otters • EVOS Status of Injured Resources and Services • Pelagic Ecosystem • Detection of Seabird Populations • Fall and Winter Seabird Abundance • Forage Fish • Humpback Whales • Killer Whales • Prince William Sound Marine Bird Population Trends   Contact Us: If you have any questions about this virtual field trip, please contact the Alaska SeaLife Center Education Department at education@alaskasealife.org or 907-224-6306. For more information on classes we offer, including our inquiry-based 50-minute Distance Learning programs, visit our website at www.alaskasealife.org.         CURRICULUM SUPPLEMENTS Use the .pdf links below to access classroom activities for each section of the Gulf Watch Alaska virtual field trip experience. Lesson 1 Nearshore.pdf Lesson 2 Drivers.pdf Lesson 3 Lingering_Oil.pdf Lesson 4 Pelagic.pdf Gulf Watch Whale Fluke ID.pdf Who's that Whale? slideshow          

animatedcollapse.addDiv('1', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('2', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() Who is watching walrus? CONTINENTAL SHELF - the area of shallow ocean water around the edge of a continent before the seabed slopes down into the deep ocean HAUL OUT (v) - to leave the water and rest on land, rocks, or floating ice HAULOUT (n) - a place where marine mammals leave the water to rest STAMPEDE - a sudden rush of many individuals, usually in a panic DISTURBANCE - when an animal or group of animals changes its behavior as a result an event           In the cold northern ocean between Alaska and Russia, freezing weather is possible during any month of the year. Throughout the long winter, temperatures in the Arctic are so cold that the surface of the ocean freezes for millions of square miles! Remarkably, animals like the Pacific walrus are adapted to live in this chilly climate, and they use sea ice as part of their habitat. In recent summers, scientists and local residents have noticed less sea ice than normal in the Arctic. In September 2009, sea ice in the Chukchi Sea melted past the edge of the continental shelf. As a result, 3,500 walruses who usually rest in small groups on floating sea ice were forced to haul out together on land at Icy Cape. Something startled the walrus while they were resting there. When startled, walrus will leave their haulout and rush into the water. As the huge group of walrus at Icy Cape rushed to the water, younger and smaller animals were trampled. Alaska SeaLife Center scientists and veterinarians were on the team that was sent to Icy Cape after the stampede. They found more than 130 young walrus dead on the beach. This dramatic scene sparked their interest in studying walrus. Land-based haulouts in the Chukchi Sea were first seen in the United States less than ten years ago. A walrus's choice to haul out on land is directly linked to the availablity of sea ice. If ice is available within their range, they will haul out on it. If ice is not available, they will haul out on land. Scientists fear that, if we continue to have summers with less-than-normal sea ice, events like the stampede at Icy Cape will become more common. Scientists at the Alaska SeaLife Center want to understand how walrus use these new land haulouts. They also want to learn how walrus will respond to disturbances while they are on land. The challenge is that walrus live in isolated, wild areas spread across a huge region. To study walrus, scientists must find a way to observe them closely without causing any disturbance events themselves. How will the scientists do it? Join our team as they come up with a plan. To get started, let's learn more about the Icy Cape stampede by checking out the videos and news release below. You'll be amazed how crowded the walrus haulouts can get! VIDEO: Icy Cape Stampede 2009 When large numbers of walrus haul out together on land, a disturbance event can mean disaster. This video, including images from the 2009 Icy Cape stampede, examines what can happen when walrus haul out on land in large groups. (1 minute) Video Transcript Over the past few decades, sea ice in the Arctic has been shrinking at increasing rates. When the ice recedes past the continental shelf, walrus females and calves are forced to leave the ice and haul out on shore to stay near their feeding grounds. As you can see in this video taken near Point Lay in 2011, conditions on shore can get very crowded. If the walruses are disturbed, they may rush to the water in a massive stampede. In September 2009 scientists observed thousands of walruses hauling out together on land near Icy Cape on the shore of the Chukchi Sea. When researchers surveyed the area a few days later, they found over 130 walruses dead on the beach. Veterinarians and scientists from the Alaska SeaLife Center and other organizations investigated the event and determined that most of the fatalities were young animals that had died as a result of a stampede. Though the cause of this disturbance at Icy Cape is unknown, the number of fatalities can be attributed to the crowded conditions at the haul out.   Click here for more information on walrus haulout events in Alaska's North Slope Borough, including the 2009 Icy Cape event.   Now that we've observed the same event that sparked the interest of our Alaska SeaLife Center marine mammal research team, let's learn more about Pacific walrus and what they need to survive.      

  animatedcollapse.addDiv('1', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('2', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         At the northern fringe of the Pacific Ocean, along the United States’ most remote boundary, lies the Bering Sea.  Covering an area more than three times the size of Texas (nearly 900,000 sq. mi.), and supporting some of the most valuable fisheries in the world, the Bering Sea’s remote waters have attracted explorers for thousands of years.  This cold maritime environment is home to a huge diversity of life. From migrating whales to clams, seabirds, seals and fish, organisms in the Bering Sea have evolved to make up one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.  The Bering Sea’s high northern latitude means nearly continuous daylight throughout the summer months.  In contrast, the winters are long and dark. Winter conditions are so harsh that the surface of the ocean, over much of the Bering Sea, freezes.  Organisms living in this region have had to adapt to these challenging, extreme, and changeable polar conditions. VIDEO: INTRODUCTION TO THE BERING SEA Discover why the Bering Sea is important to people in Alaska and around the world (1:50) Video Transcript Despite its remoteness, the coastline of the Bering Sea is home to many Alaskans. There are no roads connecting these remote communities to Alaska’s larger cities, so people living along the coast rely on the ocean to sustain their way of life. Subsistence hunting and fishing of marine animals has traditionally been an important source of food, material for clothing, fuel and culture for many people living in these villages. Successful harvest of these marine resources requires an understanding of the Bering Sea ecosystem including the ability to predict how weather and species distribution vary throughout the year. However, it isn’t only people who live beside the Bering Sea who are affected by it. Even if you’ve never heard of the Bering Sea, chances are it’s had an impact on your life. If you’ve ever eaten fish sticks or tried ‘artificial’ crab meat, you were probably eating Pollock. Pollock is a species of cod that live in the Bering Sea. These fish make up the largest single species fishery in the United States. On average two billion pounds of Pollock are harvested in Alaska every year (that’s equal to about 100 times the weight of the Eiffel Tower in Paris). The Pollock fishery in Alaska is worth about three hundred million dollars a year, making it an important part of our state and national economy. So whether you live beside Alaska’s coast, or thousands of miles from it, the Bering Sea is worth caring about. It’s home to unique animals and dynamic people. It provides American jobs and is a source of food, insight and inspiration. Recently, people living in coastal areas, companies exploring and building along the coast, and researchers with an eye on the Bering Sea have observed significant and measureable changes. Sea ice has been arriving later in the winter.  Animals are migrating farther north and the distribution of species is changing.  Some animal populations are growing quickly, while others seem to be in decline. These changes directly impact everyone who relies on the Bering Sea.  They make it harder for local communities to support their food and infrastructure needs, and harder for companies to plan on the expected ice or weather conditions two years down the road.   VIDEO: ARCTIC MELT IN ACTION This NOAA visualization illustrates how sea ice cover in the Arctic changes annually across the seasons. Compare 2012's record melt season to the historic (1979-2000) median. (0:34) Changes in the Bering Sea won’t just affect people and their activities; they may also impact the balance of the marine ecosystem. This has scientists concerned. They realize that before we can make predictions about what these changes may mean for this important marine ecosystem, we need to learn more about the area as it is now. Dr. Rolf Gradinger and his colleagues at the University of Alaska Fairbanks are one group of researchers working to better understand the Bering Sea. Observations they've made have sparked scientific questions and inspired futher research about the Bering Sea food web.  VIDEO: INTRODUCTION TO THE RESEARCH PROJECT Dr. Rolf Gradinger explains why the team is interested in studying the Bering Sea ecosystem. (1:30) Video Transcript "My name is Rolf Gradinger. I'm a faculty member at the School of Fisheries and Oceans Sciences (at UAF). I have a research interest in Arctic Ecology and I've been doing this now for quite a while. "Since 2008 I worked in the Bering Sea in spring. The Bering Sea is very unique, it's a unique ocean because it's part of the Arctic system. The Bering Ecosystem is very rich in a lot of marine resources, there are lots of fish living in the Bering Sea like Pollock, and most of the US fisheries are actually happening in the Bering Sea. In addition to that you will find lots of marine mammals and seabirds in the Bering Sea. And a lot of people living in that region, like native populations on Saint Lawrence Island or on the Alaskan coastline rely on marine resources. "Now the big question is, which you might have heard, that ice conditions in the Arctic are changing. Summer sea ice is disappearing, ice melts happen much sooner, so there is a tremendous change in the Arctic. "The question is, what does it all mean to the ecosystem if ice conditions change? For really addressing that question you need to know what lives with the ice. You know about the Polar bears and the seals living on the ice, but there's actually little critters that live within the ice, and they grow within the ice, and they only exist within the ice. Our part was to learn as much as possible about the spring biology, in association with ice in the Bering Sea." Dr. Rolf Gradinger and his team know that among the many species of plant and animal life living with the sea ice are marine plants called algae. The team wants to better understand the role that this sea ice algae plays in the entire Bering Sea food web during the spring. Dr. Gradinger knows that to accurately hypothesize the importance of this algae bloom, the researchers will need to study the science of sea ice as well as discover what types of living things make their homes throughout the sea ice ecosystem.        WHO IS STUDYING SEA ICE?   FISHERY (n)- an area where fish are caught   MIGRATE (v)- to move seasonally from one area to another   ORGANISM (n)- an individual life form   ECOSYSTEM (n)- a community of interacting living organisms and their physical environment   LATITUDE (n)- a measure of the distance north or south of the equator, expressed in degrees   SUBSISTENCE (n)- a style of living where a person relies on the local environment for survival   DISTRIBUTION (n)- the way something is spread over an area   ALGAE (n)- any aquatic plant or plant-like organism (seaweed)    

  animatedcollapse.addDiv('1', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('2', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         WELCOME TEACHERS! The Alaska SeaLife Center and COSEE-Alaska are excited to present the second in a series of virtual field trips. Meltdown is a virtual field trip (VFT) designed to immerse students in the important field of polar research as they learn about how a changing climate is impacting sea ice ecosystems in the Arctic. Educators and scientists from across Alaska have teamed up to bring you this new and innovative teaching tool. Meltdown takes students on an Arctic expedition where they'll connect with researchers studying the marine foodweb in the Bering Sea. Throughout this exploration, students will watch videos, examine images, and piece together foodwebs as they follow Dr. Rolf Gradinger and his team of real-life scientists out onto the ice. OVERVIEW FOR TEACHERS This VFT can be used in a number of ways. Teachers may facilitate a structured experience using the curriculum supplements included on this page. Alternatively, individuals may choose to navigate through the pages on their own, learning about sea ice ecosystems and why changes in arctic climate have scientists concerned. Self-guided exploration can be completed in about an hour.  GRADE LEVEL: 5th-8th TIME NEEDED:  One to eight 1-hour class periods (teachers may choose to use all or some of the supplementary lessons- see teachers guide for details). NUTSHELL: Students will learn about the role of sea ice in the Arctic ecosystem while studying the Bering Sea food web. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After completing this virtual field trip, students will be able to: - Illustrate how changes in the population of one species may affect population dynamics throughout a food web. - Differentiate between the physical properties of sea ice and freshwater ice and justify the reason for these differences. - Describe the conditions necessary for sea ice algae to grow and explain the role of sea ice algae to the Bering Sea in spring. BACKGROUND: At the Northern fringe of the Pacific Ocean, along the United States’ most remote boundary, lies the Bering Sea. Covering an area more than three times the size of Texas (nearly 900,000 sq. mi.), and supporting some of the most valuable fisheries in the world, the Bering Sea’s remote waters have attracted explorers for thousands of years. Now your students can join in the process of discovery as they accompany modern-day explorers onto the ice! In this virtual field trip, students will meet Dr. Rolf Gradinger, a Sea Ice Biologist conducting research in the Bering Sea. They will follow his research team into the field as they work to answer the question 'What does sea ice mean to the Bering Sea ecosystem?' and 'What would it mean if arctic sea ice were to disappear as a result of climate change?' Their quest for answers leads the researchers to look under the ice, where they'll investigate the role of sea ice algae (tiny marine plants that grow on the bottom surface of sea ice during the spring) in the spring Bering Sea foodweb. As your class navigates through this field trip they'll be introduced to the process of science: from initial questions, through development of hypotheses, data collection and, finally, data analysis. Watch as an unfamiliar world unfolds, revealing a complex spring foodweb all stemming from the sea ice algae. The research of Drs. Rolf Gradinger, Katrin Iken and Bodil Bluhm inspired this virtual field trip. Join us as we explore how climate change may impact one of the world's most productive marine ecosystems, the Bering Sea. We also recommend listening to Encounters Radio: Ice Algae, a recorded interview in which host Elizabeth Arnold interviews Rolf Gradinger about this research project. (10 minutes) TO USE THIS VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP YOU WILL NEED: - Internet access, video-streaming capabilities - Access to Meltdown the virtual field trip - Projection system (with audio) to display VFT content or a computer lab (with headphones) - Teacher's guide and corresponding curriculum supplements (arranged as PDFs in the right hand column of this page) UNABLE TO RUN THE STREAMING VERSION? REQUEST A COPY OF ALL MATERIALS ON CD BY EMAIL: education@alaskasealife.org SPECIAL NOTES FOR TEACHERS: Guide to State & National Standards addressed in this field trip (Click to download .pdf) Using Curriculum Supplements We encourage teachers to read through all Curriculum Supplements before beginning Meltdown with your students.  Some projects, like the invertebrate research project, will be completed over the course of several sections.  Videos and weblinks Many sections of Meltdown include embedded videos and weblinks.  All weblinks require internet access.  In the CD version of the virtual field trip, all videos will play without internet, unless noted.  In the online version of Meltdown, all videos will stream from YouTube.  Each video is less than 3 minutes long (exact durations can be found in the description below each video).  Video transcripts are available for each video and can be accessed by clicking the ‘Video Transcript’ button below each clip.  Vocabulary Important vocabulary terms are included in the VOCABULARY box in the lower right-hand corner of each section.  A complete glossary of terms is included as a .pdf in the FOR TEACHERS section.  Age appropriateness This virtual field trip is designed to meet Alaska state and National science content standards for students in grades 5-8.  We understand that students in grades 5-8 may display a variety of skill sets and reading levels, therefore this grade distinction is designed only as a guideline.  The scientific process discussed in this virtual field trip is appropriate for and may be enjoyed by older students as well.  Older students may progress through this virtual field trip at a faster rate than that outlined above.  ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Resources for Invertebrate Research Project: OCEANUS: Arctic Ecosystem Interactive Arctic Ocean Diversity Project: Species Info ARKive: Marine Invertebrates Info General information about Sea Ice: National Snow and Ice Data Center NASA Earth Observatory: Sea Ice International Polar Year: Sea Ice Fact Sheet Resources highlighting Bering Sea & Arctic Ocean research and education: BEST-BSIERP-Bering Sea Project Bering Sea Project: Profile on Sea Ice Arctic Ocean Diversity Project Education Resources Related to Climate Change: NOAA Education Resources: Climate Change Impacts Contact Us: If you have any questions about this virtual field trip, please contact the Alaska SeaLife Center Education Department at education@alaskasealife.org or 907-224-6306. For more information on classes we offer, including our inquiry-based 50-minute Distance Learning programs, visit our website at www.alaskasealife.org.         CURRICULUM SUPPLEMENTS Use the .pdf links below to access classroom activities for each section of the MELTDOWN virtual field trip. Teachers Guide.pdf Introduction_Activities.pdf Background_Activities.pdf Questions_Activities.pdf Plan_Activities.pdf Action_Activities.pdf Results_Activities.pdf Glossary.pdf        

  animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('B', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         Every step is an act of balance in a vast land full of ponds, rivers, and streams where more than half the landscape is water. There are no roads and your tent could be the highest point on the horizon. Trekking though the swampy tundra of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta (Y-K Delta), scientists are on the lookout for nests. Counting every species they encounter, one bird eludes them all: the Steller's eider. This mysterious bird is a rare sight for researchers across Alaska. Surprisingly, one of the best places to observe these birds in Alaska is at a facility that is located hundreds of miles from their natural habitat. Watch the video for a glimpse into the strange lengths that scientists are going to in order to learn as much as possible about the elusive Steller's eider. Can you guess what the researchers are doing - and why? VIDEO: Mystery on the Tundra Scientists are going out of their way to learn more about Steller's eiders. (1:34) Why are scientists going to such great extents to learn more about the Steller’s eider? The number of Steller's eiders in the wild are declining. While two breeding populations exist in northern Russia, the breeding population of Steller’s eiders in Alaska has all but vanished and is now classified as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. No one knows why these birds started disappearing in the 1970's. Scientists have proposed a few possible explanations, such as lead poisoning from ingestion of spent lead shot; increased predation from gulls, foxes and ravens; and changes in the coastal environment. As temperatures warm and sea levels rise near the eiders' preferred habitats, will the few remaining pairs of birds continue to be successful nesting in Alaska? Concerned for the Alaskan population, scientists collected Steller’s eider eggs from Barrow, Alaska in an effort to prevent a complete disappearance of breeding eiders. With these eggs, the scientists have created a captive-breeding “reservoir” population. This breeding population resides at the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, Alaska, where researchers and aviculturists have the skills to keep the birds healthy while they learn more about this rare species. VIDEO: Introduction to the Research Project Dr. Tuula Hollmen describes the Steller's eider research project and its overall goals. (1:51) Video Transcript My name is Tuula Hollmen and I am a research professor at University of Alaska Fairbanks and a scientist at the SeaLife Center. I have been working with birds for, I think it is over 25 years now. The main goal of the eider research program is to help support the recovery of eiders in Alaska and the main focus of the program at the SeaLife Center facility right now is the captive breeding program. One of the main goals of having the eiders here is to help buffer the species against extinction. We are also collecting a lot of data throughout the year to help learn more about the basic biology and physiology of the species. The third big goal for that program is to develop captive breeding techniques for Steller’s eiders with the potential that those methods that we develop could be used in the future in a field program to help augment or reestablish a population by using reintroduction as a tool. The Steller’s eider is a unique arctic species. It is the only species in its genus, Polysticta. There is no other Polysticta species. So if we lose the Steller’s eider we lose not just a species but a genus. I think that everything that I have been learning about the species just makes me more convinced that they are a unique species. I think the world will be a different place if we lose this unique species that is not necessarily similar to any other species. Dr. Tuula Hollmen has been studying Steller's eiders at the Alaska SeaLife Center since 2001. Her project allows scientists to keep their eyes on eiders, to observe and learn about a bird rarely seen nesting in the wild.       CLICK BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT SEADUCK SCIENTISTS!   AVICULTURE (n) - the raising and care of birds (especially wild birds) in captivity.   ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (n) - signed on December 28, 1973, this act provides for the conservation of species that are endangered or threatened throughout all or a significant portion of their range, and the conservation of the ecosystems on which they depend.   ECOSYSTEM (n) - a system formed by the interaction of a community of organisms with their environment.   INGEST (v) - to take something into your body (such as food).   LEAD SHOT (n) - small pellets of lead that are shot from a shotgun; used for hunting birds and small game.   PHYSIOLOGY (n) - the way in which a living organism or bodily part functions.   RESERVOIR (n) - an extra supply of a resource to be used when needed.   SPECIES (n) - a group of animals or plants that are similar and can produce young.   THREATENED SPECIES (n) - any species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future.   TUNDRA (n) - a flat or rolling treeless plain that is characteristic of arctic and subarctic regions; subsoil is permanently frozen and dominant vegetation consists of mosses, lichens, herbs, and dwarf shrubs.    

animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('B', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         WELCOME, TEACHERS! The Alaska SeaLife Center and COSEE-Alaska are excited to present their latest virtual field trip (VFT), Eyes on Eiders. Join Dr. Tuula Hollmen and her team as they investigate the lives of Steller's eiders in Alaska and what it takes for eiders to breed successfully. Learn from field researchers, animal care staff, lab researchers, and the principal investigator (Dr. Hollmen) herself. GRADE LEVEL: 5th-8th TIME NEEDED: Between one and four 1-hour class periods (teachers may choose to use all or some of the supplementary lessons). NUTSHELL: Students will learn about natural history of Stellers' eiders and their recent decline in Alaska. They will also explore the type of research that goes into planning the recovery of a species, as well as encounter several genres of scientific careers. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After completing this virtual field trip, students will be able to: - Explain the life cycle of Steller’s eiders and how husbandry staff need to understand the life cycle and annual migration of these birds in order to care for the birds in captivity. - Describe this eider research project in terms of the scientific method. - Understand the scope of work, creativity, and inquisitiveness that goes into recovery efforts for a threatened species. BACKGROUND: In this virtual field trip, students will meet Dr. Tuula Hollmen (Principle Investigator), Tasha DiMarzio (Avian Curator), Nathan Bawtinhimer (Aviculturist), Sadie Ulman (Research Coordinator) and Dr. Katrina Counihan (Scientist). They compose the team at the Alaska SeaLife Center working with Steller’s eiders. Your students will follow the eider team into the field, a unique outdoor lab, and a traditional indoor lab as these scientists work to answer questions about Steller’s eiders. This VFT can be used in a number of ways. Individuals may navigate through the pages on their own and meet all the scientists through the links on the right-hand bar. Self-guided exploration can be completed in about an hour. Alternately, teachers may facilitate a structured experience, working through each page of the VFT together as a class. Lesson plans (included in the right-hand column of this page) are available to supplement online content. Lesson plans include activities that help explain taxonomy, explore community ecology, and engage students with hands-on field techniques and an egg dissection. TO USE THIS VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP YOU WILL NEED: - Internet access, video-streaming capabilities - Access to Eyes on Eiders the virtual field trip - Projection system (with audio) to display content or a computer lab (with headphones) - Corresponding lesson plans (arranged as PDFs in the right hand column of this page) UNABLE TO RUN THE STREAMING VERSION? REQUEST A FREE COPY OF ALL MATERIALS ON CD BY EMAILING: education@alaskasealife.org ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: General information on Steller's Eiders: US Fish & Wildlife Service: Steller's Eider Factsheet US Fish & Wildlife Service: Steller's Eider Recovery Plan US Fish & Wildlife Service: Species Profile for Steller's Eiders General information about the Y-K Delta: Video: Alaska's Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge Education Resources Related to Climate Change: NOAA Education Resources: Climate Change Impacts Contact Us: If you have any questions about this virtual field trip, please contact the Alaska SeaLife Center Education Department at education@alaskasealife.org or 907-224-6306. For more information on classes we offer, including our inquiry-based 50-minute Distance Learning programs, visit our website at www.alaskasealife.org.         CURRICULUM SUPPLEMENTS Use the .pdf links below to access classroom activities for each section of the MELTDOWN virtual field trip. Background_Activities.pdf Questions_Activities.pdf Center_Activities.pdf Field_Activities.pdf Results_Activities.pdf Glossary.pdf          

animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() animatedcollapse.addDiv('B', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init()         Next year the eider team will still be hard at work. Each year presents a new opportunity to learn about Steller’s eiders and to grow from past successes and failures. Researchers are expecting another breeding season with hundreds of eggs. They are hoping that they have determined a good setup for the eiders at the Alaska SeaLife Center so more hens will be able to go through the complete incubation process, as Scarlet and Eek did in the summer of 2014. Dr. Tuula Hollmen is hoping to breed “tundra-ready” ducklings that would be able to survive on the tundra, should reintroduction become a reality. If wildlife managers decide that reintroduction is necessary to help these birds recover, the scientists at the Alaska SeaLife Center now have the tools of captive breeding necessary to help make this possible. Reintroduction would present a whole new set of questions for the team. How will they get their rearing techniques to work in the field? In a release facility, they would have to try to repeat what goes on at the Alaska SeaLife Center in the remote setting of the Y-K Delta. Since they would be on the tundra, there would be less manipulation of the habitat, but there wouldn’t be a lab nearby for immediate analysis. Also, Steller’s eiders are migratory birds, so they will travel from the place they are released. How will researchers help released ducklings establish winter and molting grounds? How will they get the eiders to return to the Y-K Delta for the next breeding season? Text goes here! Reintroduction of other bird species has been done successfully, but each species has its own specific needs. As this project continues its trek forward, Steller’s eiders will keep scientists questioning. There is a Facebook page for the Steller’s Eider Y-K Delta Reintroduction Program so you can stay up-to-date by clicking here.   Text goes here!         CLICK BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT SEADUCK SCIENTISTS!   REINTRODUCTION (n) - the relase of members of a species into an area where that species once lived but where there is no current population.                                

  animatedcollapse.addDiv('A', 'fade=1') animatedcollapse.ontoggle=function($, divobj, state){ //fires each time a DIV is expanded/contracted //$: Access to jQuery //divobj: DOM reference to DIV being expanded/ collapsed. Use "divobj.id" to get its ID //state: "block" or "none", depending on state } animatedcollapse.init() Meet Dr. Kathy Kuletz Wildlife Biologist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Kathy's role in Gulf Watch Alaska: Pelagic Ecosystems Co-Principal Investigator, Prince William Sound Marine Bird Population Trends Important skills for her position: "Biometric and GIS skills are of course important for working in science, but writing and communication skills are more important for me now, at this stage in my career. And of course, getting outdoors when possible, to recharge interest and enthusiasm, even get new ideas." Challenges in her work: "Obtaining the support needed for a scientific project, especially something long-term, takes an enormous amount of time and effort - and is usually not why one goes into science. But it has to be done... these aren't the fun aspects of science, but they also help you to refine your goals, objectives, and approach." Kathy's advice to young people interested in science: "Get some field experience, and even work on several types of studies to see what really stokes your interest in learning more. Often, biologists start out as volunteers (I did) and move to seasonal field work, or help with data and reports. When you're on a project, do some background searching and reading on the subject or your specific project (so easy to do these days), and find out what questions the project leader is focused on. If you do a good job, work well in difficult conditions, and stay in contact, chances are you'll be called back." Dr. Kathy Kuletz describes her career as a seabird biologist. (3:14) Video Transcript I’ve always been interested in the working with wildlife. I grew up in the desert, so the ocean was exotic to me. Anything that had to do with the ocean was very exotic, and that’s probably what attracted me to that aspect. I wanted to see Alaska, so I came up for a summer job like most people here. I worked in fisheries to begin with because that’s where a lot of the jobs were – there’s not a lot of funding to study birds. I was doing fisheries work, but then I wound up getting a summer job on Naked Island in Prince William Sound, and that was my first job with seabirds. My one year there turned into four, which turned into my Master’s degree studying pigeon guillemots there. Of course that was before the oil spill – I started back there in 1978. After the oil spill, it turned out that was one of the few places where we had some baseline data on seabirds – how they raised their chicks, what they fed on, and how many birds there actually were in these colonies. I went back after the oil spill, again as a seasonal employee of Fish & Wildlife Service, and eventually it became a term appointment. I stayed on in prince William Sound studying marbled murrelets. I became interested in what was going on at sea. Back in the 70s and 80s there was a large ecosystem study going on because they were looking at oil lease sales in the Bering Sea and the Gulf. They had what they called the OCSEAP program – the Outer Continental Shelf Environmental Assessment program. Then there was a huge gap where not much was done out at sea, and of course seabirds spend most of their lives out at sea, but mostly people study what goes on at a colony. I was interested in that other aspect of their lives and what happened the other three quarters of their lives out at sea. For the most part, this was before we had little tiny satellite tags and GPS dataloggers, but we didn’t know what they really did. We didn’t have a good idea of where birds went, and a large part of what we found out was by counting birds at sea – going out on big ships, research vessels that were doing fisheries work or oceanographic work, and doing surveys in conjunction with those. That’s what we’ve continued to do, of course we have more technology now and we can log location of every sighting very accurately and tie that data into what the oceanographers found on the same cruise, or the plankton people, the fish people, the marine mammal folks. So we’re trying to identify the hot spots, trying to found out where birds go in the non-breeding season as well as during the breeding season offshore. That’s what’s attracted me – the idea of being able to put together all this information and understand the big mystery of what seabirds do out at sea, that’s what draws me into it.   Who is watching the Blob?    

  In-Person Small Fry School    Welcome to Small Fry School 2025 - 2026 The 2025 - 2026 Small Fry School sessions will be held weekly on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. starting in October.    Small Fry School is a FREE educational program at the Alaska SeaLife Center, specially designed for preschool-aged children! At Small Fry School, we invite you and your pre-K learner(s) to join us in person at the Alaska SeaLife Center for a fun and exciting adventure under the sea, where curious little explorers get to meet all kinds of amazing animals that live in our backyard. Each week, we’ll dive into the world of sea stars, sea urchins, puffins, seals, sea lions, and more— learning about their homes, behaviors, what makes them so special,  and how they aren’t so different from you and me.  Designed especially for preschoolers, Small Fry School is a FREE  educational program that combines engaging videos, hands-on activities, and interactive learning to help kids connect with their environment and its animals. From hopping like a seal to touching a sticky octopus, each episode is packed with fun, laughter, and lots of new discoveries!  At Small Fry School, your little one will be excited to explore the natural  world and understand how we all play a part in keeping our environment  healthy and happy.  So come on–gather your Small Frys and we’ll see you soon!  Join our Small Fry School Facebook Group to access Pre-K activities from our education  team and connect with other families!   Stay updated with weekly schedules, curriculum, games, and more. For additional information  email: smallfry@alaskasealife.org or call: 907-224-6306  *Participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.      Exploring the Coastline  October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30* Discover what it’s like to live near the ocean! We’ll explore tidepools, meet the animals of the intertidal zone, and learn about the birds that live along the coastline. Hands-on activities and playful exploration will bring the shoreline to life!                                                                                                                                                        *Thursday, Oct. 30 - Kids are encouraged to come in costume    Amazing Alaska Animals  November 6, 13, & 20  Let’s meet some of Alaska’s coolest creatures! From clever octopuses to playful sea otters and even mysterious ice seals, we’ll discover the amazing tricks they use to live in their wild homes.                                              *Thursday, Nov. 27 - NO Small Fry School  Life in the Dark  December 4, 11 & 18  Dive into the deep sea to explore creatures who thrive without sunlight. Kids will discover ocean zones and animals with amazing adaptations—like glowing in the dark!                                                                          *Thursday, Dec. 25 - NO Small Fry School  Sunlight and Sea  January 8, 15, 22 & 29  Learn how light helps the ocean come alive! Kids will explore kelp forests, seagrass beds, and plankton, discovering how these ocean plants and tiny creatures use light to grow and thrive.                                        *Thursday, Jan. 1 - NO Small Fry School    Caring for Our Ocean  February 5, 12, 19 & 26 Let’s dive into how people and the ocean are connected! From scuba diving and fishing to learning how Alaska Native peoples care for the sea, kids will discover fun ways we can all help protect our ocean home. 

Seward, Alaska (February 8, 2018) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2018 Alaska Ocean Leadership Awards. These awards are given annually to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the awareness and sustainability of the state’s marine resources. The Alaska SeaLife Center appreciates the support provided by the award sponsors and thanks the awards committee members: Jason Brune, Lisa Busch, Ian Dutton, Dale Hoffman, and Molly McCammon for their assistance in selecting the award recipients. These awards were presented at the Alaska Marine Gala on February 3, 2018 at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage, Alaska. The following are the 2018 Alaska Ocean Leadership Award winners: Mead Treadwell received the prestigious Walter J. and Ermalee Hickel Lifetime Achievement Award. The late Governor Walter J. Hickel and his wife Ermalee endowed this award for 10 years to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the management of Alaska’s coastal and ocean resources for more than 20 years. Mead Treadwell has been one of the most influential Alaska ocean leaders of the past 30 years. From his early career experience responding to the Exxon Valdez oil spill on behalf of the City of Cordova and as Deputy Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, to his service on the boards of the Oil Spill Recovery Institute and the Prince William Sound Science Center, and to his more recent roles as Chair of the United States Arctic Research Commission, Lieutenant Governor of Alaska, and as a business leader catalyzing international fisheries partnerships, Mead has demonstrated remarkable vision and helped ensure a strong science and education base for ocean management in Alaska. He has also been a leader in Alaska’s efforts to build circumpolar cooperation through the Arctic Council and through his active involvement in numerous Arctic policy-focused organizations including the Institute of the North, the Aspen Institute, the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, the Arctic Circle, and the World Economic Forum’s Global Action Council on the Arctic. He is always open to work with diverse stakeholders and has been a proactive supporter of innovation and pan-Arctic partnerships. Mead has been a tremendous advocate for our oceans and champion for Alaska’s ocean industries, ocean dependent communities and ocean research and education institutions. Major Marine Tours received the Stewardship and Sustainability Award. This award is sponsored by Jason Brune, and honors an industry leader that demonstrates the highest commitment to sustainability of ocean resources. Major Marine Tours applies environmentally friendly practices, by using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions on their vessels and by outfitting their vessels with emission reducing and fuel saving engines. In 2016, owner Tom Tougas was awarded the Business Energy Efficiency Leader of the Year Award from the Seward Alternative Energy Group. A current member of the Board of Directors of the Alaska SeaLife Center, Tougas invites guests to donate to the ASLC at the time of booking to raise funds for their Wildlife Response Program. They also conduct other fundraisers, and have assisted the ASLC in the release of rehabilitated wildlife from their vessels. Major Marine Tours is an active participant in Whale SENSE, a voluntary education and recognition program, committed to responsible whale watching practices. Major Marine Tours also partners with the National Park Service and the National Forest Service to promote environmental education through their onboard Park Range narration and Junior Ranger Program, helping guests from all over the world learn about how to better care for our marine environment and coastlines. Kyrstyn Kelly received the Hoffman-Greene Ocean Youth Award, which is sponsored by Dale Hoffman. The award honors an individual or team of Alaskan youth ages 12-19 who has displayed a dedication to promoting the understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s oceans. As a freshman at Colony High School, Kyrstyn joined the Alaska Youth for Environmental Action (AYEA) to learn about ways to advocate for Alaska’s environment. In 2015, she was an intern for the Center for Alaska Coastal Studies in Homer, where she gained experience working in the fields of environmental education and environmental science. At the Center for Alaska Coastal Studies, she helped with research, tours, and other aspects of protecting our oceans. Kyrstyn is a member of the board of the Alaska Center Education Fund. She is a passionate advocate for research and the health of our oceans and shows an eagerness to expand her understanding of marine and environmental issues. She has attended and presented at the Alaska Forum on the Environment for three years in a row. Last summer, Kyrstyn traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with the Alaska delegation and urge funding for vital programs for our oceans and coasts including the Village Safe Water program. She has participated in the state Science Olympiad program in events such as ecology, hydrogeology, and invasive species. Kyrstyn is the Colony High School Senior Class Secretary, has been a member of the Key Club since her freshman year, and is an avid skier. Paula Cullenberg received the Marine Science Outreach Award. This award is given to a person, team or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to ocean literacy via formal or informal education, media or other communications. It is sponsored by the Alaska Ocean Observing System. Paula Cullenberg is the Director of Alaska Sea Grant, a University of Alaska Fairbanks-NOAA partnership with offices across coastal Alaska. Paula has brought over 35 years of service, vision, and skill to Alaska, its coastal communities, and the marine resources we all depend on. Paula first came to the state in the late 1970’s serving as an observer on a Russian trawler in the Bering Sea. She then traveled to villages in western Alaska as the first extension agent for the Bering Sea Fishermen’s Association. She continued her career working as an aide for interior legislator Kay Wallis, as a subsistence advocate for the Tanana Chiefs Conference and as a Sea Grant Marine Advisory agent in Bristol Bay. At the University of Alaska, Paula directed the Fishery Observer Training Center at UAA and joined Alaska Sea Grant in 2002 working as a coastal communities specialist and ultimately director of the program. Paula has provided well-respected leadership of Alaska Sea Grant, whose passionate and talented Marine Advisory faculty and staff help Alaskans understand and responsibly use our marine resources. Paula established the Alaska Sea Grant State Fellowship program which links newly completed graduate students with state and federal agencies. In 2015, Paula worked to create the Alaska Maritime Workforce Development Plan for the State of Alaska. She has also initiated an innovative school grant program that has invested more than $100,000 in marine and watershed education programming in schools around the state. She and her family fish commercially in Bristol Bay and just completed their 30th salmon season last summer. Dr. John “Craig” George was selected toreceive the Marine Research Award, sponsored by Drs. Clarence Pautzke and Maureen McCrea. This honor is given to a scientist, team of scientists, or an institution that is acknowledged by peers to have made an original breakthrough contribution to any field of scientific knowledge about Alaska’s oceans. A Senior Wildlife Biologist for the North Slope Borough, Craig George has lived in UtqiaÄ¡vik (formerly called Barrow) since the late 1970’s. His presence in the Arctic and among Iñupiat hunters and elders has given Craig a unique perspective that has been extremely helpful for wildlife conservation and for protecting subsistence hunting opportunities. Craig has helped establish a meaningful process where combining traditional knowledge and western science has improved our understanding and management of the Arctic environment. Craig’s studies, numerous publications, and technical reports have been especially helpful in managing the subsistence hunt of bowhead whales at local, national, and international levels. He has improved knowledge about many aspects of the biology of bowheads, including physiology, energetics, foraging, survival, and reproduction. Because of Craig’s commitment we know more about bowhead whales and how they use the ocean than just about any other marine mammal in the world. Craig’s most noteworthy contribution to biological science is providing evidence that bowhead whales live up to 200 years and are likely the longest-lived mammal. The son of a well-known children’s book author and a professor of Wildlife Management, Craig attributes his achievements by being persistent, working with a diverse group of people, being curious, and recognizing the value of local knowledge. V Rae is this year’s recipient of the Ocean Ambassador Award. The Ocean Ambassador Award recognizes an individual or organization that has made outstanding contributions in promoting public awareness and appreciation of Alaska’s oceans, coasts, and marine ecosystems. V Rae’s images at the Alaska SeaLife Center are not only gorgeous and captivating, they light the way for our deeper respect and love for Alaska’s marine animals. Her work adorns many homes and offices in Alaska and beyond. V’s overall impact is to inspire and excite all of us in our understanding, knowledge, and stewardship of Alaska’s living marine resources. But she is also a direct, fantastic benefactor to the Alaska SeaLife Center, by her many donations of breathtaking artwork for our Gala auction. Each year a portion of V’s work is dedicated to wildlife preservation efforts that protect and sustain the natural tension between subsistence and conservation unique to Alaska and Hawaii, as well as non-profit humanitarian outreach. About the ASLC Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center operates as a private, non-profit research institution and public aquarium, with wildlife response and education programs. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org.  

Seward, Alaska (September 23, 2021) – The Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) is launching Virtual Visits again this fall. This free program for all ages will be live-streamed weekly from the ASLC YouTube channel. Each 30-minute program will begin at 11AM Alaska time on Wednesdays starting September 29, 2021 until May 11, 2022 with some exceptions for holidays.    A new behind-the-scenes look highlighting the work, staff, and animals at the ASLC will be introduced during each program and hosted live by ASLC’s award-winning Education Team. “We are very excited about Virtual Visits this year. These programs are meant to be a fun way for our viewers to learn something new and ask questions. It’s a chance to see a part of the Center you can’t see with regular admission, hear from staff who are doing our important mission work, and join us as we work together to conserve the critical marine ecosystems of Alaska,” states Senior Education Manager, Jeff Dillon. Since the public can ask questions if they watch the live program, they are encouraged to subscribe to the Alaska SeaLife Center on YouTube to receive notifications: www.youtube.com/user/AKSeaLifeCenter.   Virtual Visits are made possible by a grant from Royal Caribbean Group, in partnership with the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA) Foundation. In 2020, ASLC launched Virtual Visits at the beginning of the pandemic in an effort to bring the Center to the public virtually. After a successful year of programming, Royal Caribbean Group has now graciously funded the program for three more years.    Royal Caribbean Group and the ATIA Foundation assisted more than 65 Alaska tourism businesses and community organizations in their pandemic recoveries.“We’re seeing the significant challenges the communities in our cruise destinations are experiencing and we knew there were partners who can’t turn a blind eye,” ATIA President and CEO Sarah Leonard said. “Royal Caribbean Group found the resources to provide relief through grants and in-kind donations in three areas: small business, food security, and health and well-being. As a partner, ATIA can streamline the grant-making process because we have first-hand knowledge of what Alaskan communities had to endure and understand how so many local businesses will really benefit from the grants, both big and small.”   About ASLC: Opened in 1998, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) research institution and public aquarium. It generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems. The ASLC is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To learn more, visit www.alaskasealife.org or find us on Facebook.  About Royal Caribbean Group: Royal Caribbean Group is the operating business name for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three global cruise vacation brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and SilverseaCruises. Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate 59 ships with an additional 15 on order as of March 15, 2021. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com About ATIA: The Alaska Travel Industry Association, Alaska’s leading statewide nonprofit membership association for the travel industry, promotes Alaska’s tourism industry as an economic contributor while providing statewide marketing resources, education opportunities and advocacy to members. ATIA has long managed Alaska’s destination marketing program: TravelAlaska. The ATIA Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3that supports programs that educate and enhance the quality of Alaska’s visitor industry and educates the general public regarding tourism. For more information, visit www.alaskatia.org