May 21, 2024 — Communities of the Gulf of Alaska have a long history of adaptation. They have survived and thrived through wars, economic depressions, and natural disasters. They have also adapted to changes in the fishing industry, such as the decline of populations and the rise of aquaculture. Fishing communities are resilient. They have the knowledge, skills, and experience to adapt to challenges, including those brought by changing climates. With the right support, they can continue to thrive. But to do that they need scientific information that supports resiliency planning by region.
Most of us are well aware of the blob, a massive marine heatwave that occurred in the Gulf of Alaska starting in 2014, caused widespread mortality of marine organisms, including commercially important species such as Pacific cod, halibut, and salmon. As a result, 18 fisheries in the Gulf were declared official disasters, leading to significant economic losses for fishing communities and seafood processors. Scientists predict that the effects of climate change will continue to intensify in coming years, with more frequent and severe heatwaves, as well as increased ocean acidification and harmful algal blooms. These changes are likely to have an ongoing and profound impact on the Gulf of Alaska fisheries, and on the communities and economies that depend on them.
The Alaska Marine Conservation Council has worked for three decades to create bridges between scientific resources and fishing communities. We have a long-term commitment to advance these critical discussions and recognize the importance of increasing efforts as unprecedented changes unfold around us. This kind of collaboration can help maintain resilience in Alaskan fishing communities, particularly as the marine environment changes.