Issues Impacting Southwest Alaska Parks

While Southwest Alaska parklands are in good ecological condition, their coastal and freshwater ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to disturbances and impacts. Learn about some of the issues impacting our parks.

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  Marine Heatwave

  The Pacific Marine Heatwave (2014-2016) had impacts throughout the marine food chain. Marine heatwaves will continue to occur.

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  Seabird Die-Offs

  Although seabird die-off events are not uncommon, recent die-offs have been extraordinarily extensive.

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  Sea Star Wasting Syndrome

  Sea stars are top predators in nearshore marine ecosystems. A disease that started in 2013 and 2014 changed sea star communities in Alaska.

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  Marine Debris

  Trash, especially plastic waste, is a serious concern in the world’s oceans. A marine debris clean-up was conducted in Kenai Fjords.

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  Invasive Species, Elodea

  Elodea is an invasive water plant that can damage native ecosystems. We keep an eye out for this plant and are ready to act if we find it.

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  Marine and Coastal Issues

  Many different issues are impacting Alaska's marine ecosystems and coastal resources, these impacts are both physical and biological.