06/15/2026
Earlier this spring, the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge hosted its annual “Tiĝlax̂ in the Bay” high school field trip, offering local students the opportunity to spend a day aboard our research vessel while exploring career opportunities in marine trades around Kachemak Bay. Throughout the excursion, participants gained hands-on experience with deckhand responsibilities, navigation, scientific diving, deploying remote operated vehicles (ROVs), utilizing drones for wildlife observation, conducting invasive species research, plankton sampling, and much more.
This year, support from the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council's Youth Involvement program enabled the inclusion of a learning station dedicated exclusively to oil spill response. Through this module, students examined the effects of oil spills on Alaska’s marine wildlife and investigated the complexities involved in remediation efforts. Students also practiced cleaning simulated “wildlife” items—such as feathers and tennis balls—using various cleaning agents and techniques, deepening their understanding through practical exercises. Thank you to PWSRCAC and all partners, including the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, NOAA - Kasitsna Bay Lab, participating educators and chaperones, and the Tiĝlax̂ crew for their collaborative efforts in facilitating such a successful trip on the Bay!
📷 K. Bush / USFWS
