Seabirds Washing Up Dead; Scientists Investigating
For the second year in a row, dead seabirds are washing up on beaches throughout the region by the hundreds. The birds appear to be starving, but scientists say the story is more complicated and could be connected to warming seas.
Nome Port Commission Seeks Funding for Incinerator, Discusses Fuel Dispersants, Wave Buoy
The incinerator would handle waste from foreign ships — but the Port needs to find a way to pay for it. A new wave buoy will arrive in early July, providing real-time data.
Council Unanimously in Favor of Port Tariffs and Regulations, Despite Debate Over Rate Effects on Users
Councilman Gerald Brown said that he understood why Sitnasuak would be in favor of this ordinance, and if passed without changes, it (the ordinance) could be seen as limiting other business in Nome’s waters. Ukallaysaaq Tom Okleasik said he wouldn’t characterize the situation like that and reiterated his view that this tariff ordinance would encourage investments in the local economy and boost onshore infrastructure.
In Nome, State Experts Ponder Responses to Potential Bering Sea Crises
Experts from throughout Alaska gathered in Nome last week to discuss marine mammals and potential responses to different types of emergencies that may happen in the Bering Sea.
High Levels of Biotoxin Found in Dead Walrus; Experts Unsure of Regional Impact
According to Gay Sheffield, wildlife biologist, three of the walruses had low to moderate levels of saxitoxin, while the fourth one had high levels. Saxitoxin is a biotoxin produced by algae and is potentially a poisonous substance. Louisa Castrodale with DHSS says even though this walrus tested positive for saxitoxin levels above the federal regulatory limit, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a human health issue.
Marine Biologists Seek Answers in a Warmer Bering Sea
A group of marine scientists is visiting Western Alaska this week to discuss the results of a second bottom-trawl survey of the northern Bering Sea.
Wintertime News
From a stranded seal to a dangerous hole in Yukon River ice, recent stories from KNOM’s news department offer a special glimpse into what makes Western Alaska so unique — and, at times, so challenging.