Steller sea lions were once abundant throughout the North Pacific, and Indigenous peoples and settlers used them for meat, hides, and oil. The Western distinct population segment is endangered, while the Eastern population has recovered and is no longer listed. Steller sea lions are the largest of the “eared seals,” with males weighing up to 2,500 pounds. These […]
Agency announces a positive 90-day finding on a petition to expand North Pacific right whale critical habitat; seeks public comment. NOAA Fisheries is initiating a review of designated critical habitat for endangered North Pacific right whales, of which there are only an estimated 30 animals remaining. The review is in response to a petition we received […]
Sea turtle species you might encounter in Alaska and steps to protect them. Unlikely Alaskan Visitors Most people associate sea turtles with warm, tropical destinations. You might be surprised to learn that some sea turtle species can also be found in the frigid ocean waters off Alaska. Seven sea turtle species inhabit our oceans. The […]
NOAA’s aquaculture program has created a K-12 education program to explore growing traditional foods in the community Need for Land-Based Culture Ḵ’aach’ or dulse is a traditionally important seaweed species that has been harvested in Southeast Alaska for millennia by the Tlingit and Haida peoples. Tribal members have expressed concern that this vibrant red algae may be […]