The Governor’s office didn’t announce the appointment, nor was the vacancy advertised. Smith’s name only surfaced after it was transmitted on February 3 to the state Senate for consideration.
Oceans
Genetic technique brings biologists closer to solving beluga mystery
Researchers have found a way to determine the ages of living Cook Inlet belugas using skin samples.
Study connects physical decline of Alaska seals to warming Arctic
A related study of harbor seals in the Aleutians found a similar decline over a three-year period, with an average decrease of about 10% of their weight.
US and Russia update plan to address marine pollution in Bering, Chukchi seas
One of the major new features of the latest Joint Contingency Plan is the addition of what’s called an international coordination officer.
Cook Inlet oil lease sale process on pause
The federal government has hit pause on preparations for an oil lease sale in Cook Inlet after President Joe Biden signed an executive order indefinitely halting new leases.
Drone technology charts Arctic waters, makes way for safer exploration of Alaska seafloor
In recent history, there has been a shift to drone technology that’s seen as a safer method to collect data.