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APPENDIX D
Site Visit Summaries
T he overarching research themes outlined in this volume are based
partly on the comments and insights provided by local scientists
and community members, as well as representatives from govern-
ment agencies, public interest groups, and industry. The specific needs
articulated at each site fall into the following general categories:
· Sustainability of subsistence and commercial fisheries
· Ecosystem dynamics
· Monitoring of nearshore and deep-sea environments
· Contaminants and pollution
· Research and traditional values of indigenous peoples
· Data collection and dissemination of information
Concerns about potential consequences of current environmental
trends were expressed in the context of pertinent socioeconomic issues.
Attendees provided ancillary information that the North Pacific Research
Board (NPRB) ought to consider in developing a research plan and offered
suggestions about how best to approach these challenges.
Following are summaries of the needs, issues, opinions, and data that
were shared with NPRB representatives at the site meetings. These notes
are based on impressions of the people with whom the committee talked,
and do not necessarily reflect the committee's opinions.
107
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108 APPENDIX D
KODIAK
Attendees addressed issues transcending many different commercial
fisheries, including herring, salmon, and crab. The nature of the relation-
ship between fisheries and marine mammals was also an issue; the general
consensus of those present was that mammalian interactions with fish are
harming fisheries to a greater extent than fishermen are interfering with
marine mammals. Regardless, the community perceives earthquakes to
be the single largest threat to the Kodiak fisheries.
A need was expressed for knowledge of herring spawning areas and
accurate estimations of the sustainability of future harvests, particularly
salmon population trends and migratory patterns. The competition of
local salmon with farmed salmon on the world market was a particular
issue. Specific ideas included focusing on identifying an organic label
that could be used to recognize Alaskan native salmon.
The processes triggering fluctuations in crab and shrimp stocks are
not well known. At present, there are no funds to continue shrimp
surveys, although this is a critical time to gather information since shrimp
are returning to the Kodiak area. Monitoring nearshore environments is
necessary to determine what oceanographic features are significant to
bottomfish and crab fisheries.
The committee heard that sleeper sharks and killer whales are prolif-
erating at present in regional waters; consequently, some areas can no
longer be fished. The relationship between sharks and local fish popula-
tions is unknown. Killer whales however, are likely stripping sablefish
off long lines deployed from ships.
Participants advised that the committee consider evaluating the
impact of commercial fisheries on local sea lion and sea otter populations.
Fishermen asserted that they are not responsible for the decline in the
marine mammals and that criticism has been misdirected. Locals also
were concerned with the potential impact of climate change on the fisheries.
Participants attested to an increase in paralytic shellfish poisoning
(PSP). Questions as to why it is happening, how to test animals for PSP,
and finding a "cure" for PSP were posed. Many in attendance believe that
it is related to dumping by the military, fertilizer runoff, and oil spills.
The Exxon Valdez spill was also generally thought to be a major cause of
pollution in the coastal waters.
Commercial fishery representatives had several ideas for addressing
local concerns, including development of novel processing technologies
and implementation of applied research programs. To assess the inter-
actions among the entire ecosystem, a more holistic approach was also
suggested. For example, the role and impact of forage fish and smaller
organisms on the entire food chain should be identified. Attendees stated
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APPENDIX D 109
that such efforts aid the commercial fishery industry to compete in the
world market.
The community expressed irritation that fisheries management deci-
sions are made in Juneau without the input of local peoples. Decisions
made by the state and federal governments are viewed as political, rather
than scientific.
The community expressed a desire to be more involved in science.
Indigenous peoples would be more apt to adhere to regulations if the
process included them in the scientific agenda leading to regulations. It
was seen as the role of the scientists to disseminate information to the
community and to integrate research with local interests. Cultural train-
ing would be necessary for scientists working in the area. It was evident
that local knowledge would benefit environmental monitoring and research.
BARROW
Statements from individual participants emphasized that hunting and
fishing are culturally, nutritionally, and religiously very important to local
communities. Many were concerned with subsistence fisheries and hunt-
ing of marine mammals, particularly the sustainability of bowhead whale
populations. Minimal long-term data are available for this species, and
there are no data on their prey or predators. For example, killer whale
populations are increasing, yet little is known about their interactions with
northern whale and seal populations, illustrating the importance of
ecosystem-based research.
Also at issue were increasing ship strikes on baleen whales, net
entanglement of marine mammals, intrusion of commercial fishing fleets
from the Bering Sea-Chuckchi region, the impact of noise on marine
mammals, and the environmental impact of the oil industry. The oil
industry was specifically targeted for altering fish and whale migratory
patterns, creating noise from drilling, and causing polluting (i.e., oil spills).
Examination of the impact of climate trends (e.g., global warming,
climate change, Arctic Oscillation) on ice cover, subsistence organisms,
and their predators and prey was a major concern. Ice cover is a concern
not only because of its effect on subsistence animals, but also for safety
reasons. Local people stated that sea ice has been thinner than in the past
and the timing of ice recession has changed. Consequently, hunters risk
their safety by walking on thin ice that may break or float out to sea if
local wind conditions change.
The issue of contaminants also emerged. Currently there is no pro-
gram to monitor subsistence animals for bioaccumulation of toxins. The
need for a program to monitor animals and to investigate disease, toxins,
and starvation was stressed.
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110 APPENDIX D
The NPRB was specifically asked to synthesize information (from
sundry sources on all related topics) and to set up a program in which the
local community can work directly with scientists. Local people feel that
they are detached from scientific progress. The Beringia Heritage Program
was cited as an example in which local people have a voice in ranking
research. The local community stated that the scientific community had
neglected traditional knowledge as a resource. Native citizens desire to
aid in sample collection and specimen archival or to help in other capacities.
JUNEAU
The decline of marine mammals and fisheries was a primary concern
among participants. There is a particular need for knowledge relating to
the salmon fishery. Specific issues to emerge were the maintenance of
salmon stocks, determining the nature of the relationship between farmed
and wild salmon, and assessing whether hatchery fish are a health con-
cern for indigenous peoples.
Contributors conveyed the need for nearshore and species-specific
work. At issue were interactions between fisheries and Steller sea lions,
the relationship of sea otter population shifts and sea urchin abundance
(particularly along the Aleutian Islands), and the decline in crab, rockfish,
fur seal, and seabird populations. Ancillary subjects included the coordi-
nation of Steller sea lion research from disparate sources and investiga-
tion of factors contributing to the increasing population of sea otters (a
competitor for subsistence resources with indigenous peoples) in South-
east Alaska.
The paramount worry of the local community relates to the decrease
in the salmon populations in the Yukon-Kuskokwim regions and the rela-
tionship of this decline to coincident changes in halibut distribution and
availability (Pribilofs), spawning patterns of herring (Southeast), and the
declining crab population (Gulf of Alaska). It was suggested that investi-
gations focus on the impact that both commercial fishing and, conversely,
restricted fishing in essential habitat areas might have on subsistence fish-
ing and local communities.
Evidence was presented that showed contaminants in seals and hali-
but and toxic quantities of pollutants in killer whales and in seawater.
Concerns emerged about climate change, particularly regarding sea-
ice coverage and the impact on subsistence hunting. Ideas for managing
these concerns included monitoring climate indicators in the North
Pacific; evaluating the impact of changes on pinnipeds, seabirds, fish, and
shellfish populations; and assessing potential socioeconomic implications
for subsistence and commercial interests. Among those in attendance, it
was apparent that there is a growing need for an improved predictive
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APPENDIX D 111
capability for stocks and a more detailed understanding of "natural"
cycles versus changes induced by anthropogenic forcing.
Attendees stressed that the committee should not only examine envi-
ronmental matters, but also evaluate methods to moderate the cost and
risk involved in fishing. Successful mitigation measures would increase
the economic return to the local community.
There was a plea for cessation of "emergency funding" in favor of
long-term programs and a general consensus that traditional knowledge
should be compiled in formulating research questions.
KOTZEBUE
Site visit participants suggested a strong need for a program to docu-
ment the oral history (traditional knowledge) before it is lost. For instance,
the mayor of Kotzebue commented that his generation is not trained in
the use of the mnemonic devices that his parents' generation used to retain
this history. Another major research need is a better understanding of
beluga whales, particularly their migration routes and population
surveys. Some participants believe that there has been a decrease in both
the beluga whale population and blubber thickness.
Other marine mammals about which the community expressed con-
cern are ice seals and killer whales. Participants suggested that agencies
do not invest heavily in research on ice seals or killer whales, and they are
concerned about peculiar brown spots that have recently appeared in seal
blubber.
Since ice conditions correspond directly with successful hunting
seasons, many were concerned about the prevalence of thin ice in the past
four years. Some attributed this to climate change: "We know there is
warming up here" was iterated in several forms more than once.
There appears to be a strong oral history of terrestrial mammals,
although records of marine species and fisheries are lacking. The only
exceptions are good records of salmon stocks and a small shellfish record.
Currently, there are enough fish to sustain the subsistence fishing commu-
nities, although commercial fisheries are struggling. Of greater concern
was the role of contaminants in relation to public health, although it was
mentioned that acquiring funds for such research is difficult.
DILLINGHAM
Participants were nearly unanimous in their belief that the oceans are
overgrazed, that single-species management of marine mammals and fish-
eries is impractical and insufficient, and that the scope of future research
should be expanded to regional and global scales.
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112 APPENDIX D
The major focus of discussion was the sustainability of commercial
and subsistence herring and salmon fisheries, both of which are managed
in this region. Concerns arose regarding the interaction between herring
and Steller sea lions, the lack of ecosystem-based assessments, unknown
stock abundance, and age class structuring for forecasting.
Typically, over the course of the herring fishery (10 days), there should
be a decrease in catch size and fish weight. This pattern occurred in 2002.
However, in 2003, large fish were caught well past the 10-day time inter-
val. The reason for this anomaly is unknown, because there are not
adequate ancillary data.
Local fishermen noted a decline in the salmon run (specifically sock-
eye). Salmon populations have declined previously, although fishermen
believe prior decreases were a consequence of overfishing by foreign
fishing fleets. The recent decline is thought to be of a different nature.
One potential cause is related to beluga whales; coastal erosion has chan-
neled the flow of the local river from a divided river mouth through a
single outlet. Since beluga whales (a salmon predator) sit at the mouth of
the river, predation of salmon (and thus mortality in the ocean environ-
ment) may have increased. The committee was informed that the National
Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is conducting some studies on the
marine stage of the juvenile salmon life cycle.
Participants identified climate change as another issue pertinent to
the salmon fishery. Through the 1980s, salmon returns correlated with
the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, although no causative link was deter-
mined. Another worry expressed was the lack of knowledge about inter-
actions between farm-raised salmon and native species.
Two other important fish species in the region are smelt (forage and
harvesting) and capelin (forage). Neither population is currently studied
because proposals to investigate forage species have rarely been funded.
The need to monitor seabird and marine mammal populations and to
determine the trophic structure of the ecosystem was evident. The produc-
tivity and diet of seabirds is largely unknown.
The body fat of ringed seals, walruses, and many whale species has
decreased by approximately 50 percent. The opinion of indigenous elders
is that changes in water temperature have displaced fish populations. For
example, diving bird mortality rates increased dramatically during a
warm-water spike that relocated pollock fisheries 600 miles from their
expected position. The gray whale population numbered in the hundreds
five years ago; today there are roughly ten animals. The reasons for these
declines are unknown.
An organized effort to keep the Bristol Bay ecosystem intact has been
sustained, although funding problems are emerging. Data collected at the
local airport are the most reliable and extensive record of regional cli-
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APPENDIX D 113
mate, although the University of Washington Fisheries Institute may have
some intermittent weather information. A continuous, five-year record of
water temperature in the Togiak River is also available. Despite these
minimal data, the locals can provide information from the last century on
a day-to-day basis.
All those in attendance agreed that more collaboration among funding
agencies, researchers, and local communities is necessary, although a
degree of mistrust and possessiveness continues to hamper communication.
FAIRBANKS
The topical discussions here centered on the need for more nearshore
work, particularly in the Bering and Beaufort Seas. These areas were
implicated as critical habitats for marine mammals and fish, including
those important to the subsistence economy and commercial industry. The
Bering and Beaufort Seas are believed to link the ocean to terrestrial and
freshwater systems. These regions remain largely understudied; there is
a need for knowledge of the varying aspects of the entire ecosystem.
The Bering and Beaufort Seas exhibit large seasonal variations,
prompting concerns about the sensitivity of these regions to climate
change. Specific issues shared with the committee included the effect of
decreasing ice cover on commercial and subsistence activities, shellfish
contamination and sustainability, harmful algal blooms, and gray whale
habitats.
The effects of deep-sea production on the ocean ecosystem also
emerged, such as vents found along the Aleutian Islands (influencing fish
and sperm whale populations).
Many complained that the proposal review and funding process has
to be revamped completely, based on a perception that the current process
is unfair and biased. Researchers in attendance emphasized that the
schedule should be revised to accommodate the length of time necessary
between allocation of funding and planning for the field season.
Participants advocated that coastal communities are an important,
and underutilized, source of knowledge and support. Subsequently, all
agreed there is a need for partnerships among indigenous peoples, local
and federal governments, industry, and research entities.
ANCHORAGE
The overarching theme of the comments, questions, and opinion
expressed by those in attendance was that the long-term impact of fish-
eries on the regional ecosystem should be studied on a larger scale. There
is a need to move beyond single-species management to determine how
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114 APPENDIX D
fish and marine mammals interact with the entire ecosystem, presenting
the challenge of determining the role (i.e., trophic level) of each species in
the environment.
In this region, there is a small commercial coho fishery, but the chum
and king salmon fisheries no longer exist. Consequently, many partici-
pants focused on identifying the reason for the decline in salmon popula-
tions and criticized commercial salmon hatcheries for fear that farmed
salmon might displace native stocks. The need to preserve the genetic
diversity of salmon was stressed. Concern was also expressed about the
management of rockfish communities and about the effect of boat traffic
on local whale populations.
The identification of essential fish habitats was mentioned as a priority
by many in attendance. Data from observers on board vessels may pro-
vide information about the location of essential fish habitats (e.g., relative
quantities of bycatch), although these data are not in an accessible form.
Improved training for observers is necessary so that species are identified
accurately.
Monitoring bottom trawlers and improving nearshore mapping were
also concerns. The prevalence of seafood contamination was highlighted
by examples of discoloration of seal meat and whale blubber. There are
few (if any) local laboratories to address these issues; apparently there is
some distrust of laboratories outside Alaska. An increase in the incidence
of cancer among the local population and an increase in the occurrence of
parasites in salmon have intensified public health concerns.
Cruise ships were mentioned as a source of pollution, allegedly
dumping waste and disrupting seals with their pups; a 14 percent decline
in seals has been recorded in affected areas.
A representative from BP gave a detailed testimony of its research on
the environmental impacts of oil extraction on the North Slope. Due to
declining oil production, the company has no long-term interest in the area
and is reducing the amount of money it allocates to its North Pacific pro-
grams. However, BP is favorably disposed to partnership with researchers.
It is likely that BP has more long-term data on marine mammals than any
agency or university, including the state and federal governments.
The NPRB must avoid duplicating studies, and collaborative efforts
should be explored with Russian researchers. Moreover, the availability
of information should be universal. For example, it was suggested that
observer program data be released by the U.S. Department of Commerce
and by other involved institutions.
The need for dissemination of information, particularly of scientific
results to the public, was stressed. It was also noted that although web-
based initiatives allow rapid transmission of data, not all Native villages
have access to these technologies.
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APPENDIX D 115
BETHEL
The variability of salmon runs and the recent decline of the chinook
salmon fishery were the dominant concerns among participants. Partici-
pants suggested that subsistence harvesting of chum salmon has been
trending downward and the commercial fisheries in the region have
collapsed as escapement has declined.
Locals believe that the decline of salmon relates to the ocean going
period of the salmon life cycle. Salmon spend approximately 90 percent
of their life in the sea, yet there is little understanding of what happens to
them during this period. The need for information about all aspects of the
salmon life cycle and knowledge of the factors potentially causing the
variable run cycles were deemed top priorities by those in attendance.
Others suggested that salmon escapement was being hindered by a
continuing decrease in the water level of the Kuskokwim River, which
was being exacerbated by the construction of beaver dams. The influence
of climate change was also questioned since the mortality and morbidity
of some salmon species varies with water temperature.
The need for improved technology to track salmon runs as they pass
up river was mentioned. In this context, some were concerned with
research priorities, arguing that money spent on Steller sea lions was
unreasonable, particularly given the decline in fisheries and the resulting
impact on the socioeconomic welfare of the region.
Participants suggested that the mortality of thousands of puffin birds
in 1997 might have been an ecosystem response to similar processes
causing the fisheries decline. It was noted that there is a large percentage
of contaminated birds residing in the area, and this may be affecting fish-
eries as well. Attendees speculated that pollution from sewage, litter, and
oil and gas dumps may be the root cause. There are no data concerning
the impact of the contaminated birds and environmental pollution on
people.
There is a need for a holistic approach to research in the region. Envi-
ronmental studies should relate to the entire ecosystem, and economic
and social science research on the subsistence economy should involve a
long-term (generational) perspective. Traditional knowledge resides to a
large extent in elders, and there is a need to record and synthesize this
information immediately. The committee was warned that traditional
knowledge can be abused by some local peoples, but accurate accounts of
oral history are a valuable resource. A discrepancy between management
practices and Native values was evident, as was the necessity to improve
the ability of indigenous groups to compete for funds. It is difficult for
local organizations to find money for research; capacity building among
these organizations to write successful proposals was cited as a specific
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116 APPENDIX D
way to address this issue. The Bering Sea ecosystem may present an
opportunity to utilize traditional ecological knowledge.
SEATTLE
One participant dwelt at length on salmon interception at sea. It was
alleged that this activity was occurring on a much greater scale than offi-
cially acknowledged. The need to investigate this was strongly empha-
sized. Written material about this matter was distributed.
The testimony from people representing the fishing industry stressed
the economic benefits of the new management arrangements for Alaska
pollock (the so-called fisheries cooperatives authorized by the American
Fisheries Act). Recovery rates in the industry have improved, and fishing
seasons have become longer, with better utilization of fleet capacity. The
usefulness of observers on board fishing vessels was emphasized.
Industry representatives confirmed the unwillingness of industry to
provide information on costs and revenues of individual companies but
argued that economic analysis of the fishery could go a long way by using
generic data. Industry people did not see much of a role for research on
markets; this is something the industry is doing in its own interest.
Representative terms from entire chapter:
traditional knowledge
