ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Researchers in the United States and Russia are starting the largest ever survey of ice seals in the Bering Sea off Alaska's west coast.
The aerial survey will begin this week from Nome, the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced.
The agency says scientists will use advanced imaging systems and modern statistical techniques for estimates of ribbon seals, spotted seals, bearded seals and ringed seals.
Five- to seven-hour survey flights also will be sent out from Bethel, Dillingham and St. Paul Island, the largest of the Pribilof Islands in the Bering Sea.
The agency says the survey will continue into May and will include nearly 19,000 nautical miles over U.S. waters and 11,000 nautical miles over Russian waters.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
