Seward Association for the Advancement of Marine Science

Overview

The Seward Association for the Advancement of Marine Science, commonly known as the Alaska SeaLife Center, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems through research, rehabilitation, conservation, and public education.

History

Established in 1990, the organization operates as the Alaska SeaLife Center, which officially opened on May 20, 1998. The center is located on the shores of Resurrection Bay in Seward, Alaska, and is the only facility in the world specifically designed to study the northern marine environment while combining research with public education and visitor components.

Objectives and Activities

• Research: The organization specializes in marine mammal and sea bird research, focusing on species such as Steller sea lions, eiders, harbor seals, sea otters, and fur seals. It collaborates with numerous state, federal, and international agencies and universities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

• Conservation and Rehabilitation: The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility in Alaska. It rescues, treats, and releases stranded animals, including seals, sea lions, walruses, sea otters, and birds. The rehabilitation program provides crucial insights into marine animal biology and contributes to conservation efforts.

• Public Education: The center offers marine-themed educational programs for students from pre-kindergarten through adult, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of marine ecosystems.

Operations and Funding

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a private, non-profit organization with approximately 105 full-time staff members and a team of volunteers and interns. It was granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in September 2011, placing it among the top in its field. The center was initially funded with $37.5 million from Exxon Valdez oil spill settlement funds, along with additional local donations and bond sales totaling $17.1 million.

Governance

The organization is led by a board of directors comprising representatives from various sectors, including local businesses, educational institutions, and conservation organizations. The board ensures diversity and transparency in leadership practices, with formal assessments and policies in place for ethical governance.

Impact

By generating and sharing scientific knowledge, the Seward Association for the Advancement of Marine Science plays a critical role in promoting the stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems. Its work contributes to the conservation of threatened and endangered species and enhances public understanding of the marine environment.