Category Archives: Natural History

Chilkoot Trail to the Klondike

In its heyday, Dyea proclaimed itself like many other towns yet to come as the largest city in Alaska. Stampeders crossed Chilkoot Pass with their ton of goods in the effort to strike it rich in the Klondike goldfields starting in 1898.

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Time is Short to Comment on Proposed NOAA Arctic Vision and Strategy

The Arctic is experiencing some of the world’s most dramatic and rapidly evolving effects from climate change. Increasing air and ocean temperatures, thawing permafrost, loss of sea ice, and shifts in ecosystems are evidence of widespread and dramatic ongoing change. Critical environmental, economic, and national security issues are emerging that affect lives and livelihoods in coastal communities and inland areas across the region. NOAA’s diverse capabilities to address these emerging issues are the backbone of the strategy.

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Port of Call – King Salmon Alaska: Gateway to Katmai Park and Bristol Bay

The Alaska town of King Salmon is located at the east side of Bristol Bay on the north bank of the Naknek River on the Alaska Peninsula. In Alaskan jargon, King Salmon is a hub community, providing a transshipping point for the smaller neighboring villages. The town is home to a formerly active Air Force [...]

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Marine Wildlife Viewing: View Marine Wildlife Responsibly and Safely

We enjoy watching whales, sea otters, and shorebirds on the waterfront. Protecting these animals will preserve the opportunity to watch them again in the future. Watching marine wildlife constitutes one of the unique benefits and joys of life here on the waterfront. Whether we live in wild Alaska, boat along the Gulf or Western coasts, [...]

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Alaska Aurora and Space Weather Forecasts

Alaska being part of the circumpolar north experiences displays of northern lights or Aurora Borealis frequently in the winter months. These natural light shows can stretch from horizon to horizon and display remarkable variations in their color and intensity. Aurora viewing is popular with Alaska residents and visitors alike. Being able to witness the northern [...]

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Forest Mushrooms Aid in Alaskan Response to Climate Change

There is still much to learn about the interaction of organisms found in high latitude ecosystems. Rising temperatures in the north may not automatically equate to a positive feedback to the soil carbon feedback cycle.

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Remote Rental Cabins in Southeast Alaska on the Tongass National Forest

Tongass NF cabins are a great way to explore the region and enjoy its outdoor activities. Access is by boat or plane making the cabins an easy way to visit the wilderness.

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The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO)

Recent eruptions of the Kasatochi, Cleveland, and Okmok Volcanoes in Alaska have highlighted the importance of the Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) to the state. In a one-month period starting on 12 July 2008, the three Aleutian Island volcanoes erupted, with ash reaching at times to 35,000 feet. Flying ash presents an obvious hazard to aircraft [...]

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