Dutch Harbor has been named the nation’s top fishing port in terms of volume for the 22nd consecutive year. But the port dropped from second to third place in terms of value.
Oceans
Endangered Cook Inlet beluga whales continue to decline, and scientists aren’t sure why
In 2008, Cook Inlet beluga whales were listed as endangered. Their numbers still continue to drop: There are fewer than 300 today, and they’re steadily declining.
A second ‘Blob’ marine heat wave has disappeared, but the warming trend will continue, scientists say
The first “Blob” decimated fisheries, caused a mass seabird die-off and spurred toxic algal blooms up and down the coast. As Alaska braced for the second heat wave, it disappeared — at least for now.
Dramatic ocean changes are coming ‘a couple decades too early,’ scientists say
One researcher says now is a key time for studies on Arctic Ocean conditions, before hotter temperatures from climate change become the new normal.
Alaska DEC seeks to replace Ocean Rangers, use some funds for shoreside wastewater plants
Alaska lawmakers received an updated proposal from the Dunleavy administration to replace the Ocean Rangers with a state-run inspection regime.
When the Scandies Rose sunk, he survived. Now he’s grappling with losing his crewmates.
“I see the boat penciled — straight up and down in the air. The bow was straight up in the air, and then it sinks. My heart drops. I tried to do everything I could to get those guys out.”