In the years since the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, Prince William Sound has experienced numerous changes. The spill impacted and disrupted many important fish and wildlife resources and also seriously affected the livelihood of many area residents. The tourism economy in this remote and beautiful area was one industry harmed by the spill. Recent changes include the opening of the Whittier Tunnel, the introduction of high speed ferry service and an increase in cruise ship traffic. This has been an economic boon for the region but there is growing concern that increased competition and rapid growth in recreation and tourism may threaten the very qualities of the Sound that make it such a destination for many Alaskans and people from around the world. The Chugach National Forest is conducting a series of studies in Prince William Sound to better characterize the patterns of human activity. An important group using the Sound is recreationists - who camp, fish, hunt, kayak, cruise, photograph, and just plain enjoy the waters and landscape of this region. One key to better understanding their use is to learn more about the experiences and expectations of these folks. By learning which aspects of the Sound recreationists find attractive and the types of experiences they are looking for during a trip, we and our partner land managers in the region (like the State of Alaska and Native Corporations) can make better decisions about management of the region.
Beginning this spring US Forest Service personnel will be distributing trip diaries to recreationists departing from harbors at Whittier, Valdez, and Cordova and asking folks to document their trips and experiences as they travel through the Sound. We hope to get responses from all types of Prince William Sound users - from hunters and fishers, to pleasure boaters, kayakers, and wildlife viewers.
If you are planning a trip to the Sound this summer please take the time to have your voice heard! Document your trip using this diary, and your experience will contribute to our understanding of what makes the Sound such a valuable resource to outdoor enthusiasts.
The knowledge gained from this research and our other human use studies will improve and inform our own management efforts in the face of increasing human use of the Sound. We hope these research will also be a resource for local communities, private landowners, our partner agencies and the public at large. As this work proceeds, we will pursue innovative partnerships and opportunities for public involvement to help break down barriers and boundaries among land owners, communities and user groups. Ideally, these efforts will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders and citizens to focus on the future of the Sound and strategies to manage for sustainable human use.
If you would like to learn more about these projects please go the PWS Framework link on the Chugach National Forest web page. Or feel free to contact me (Aaron Poe) directly via email: apoe@fs.fed.us
We are interested in your thoughts and insights as we proceed with this work and are happy to keep interested folks up to date on our progress. Also feel free to visit us at the Glacier Ranger District Headquarters in Girdwood, 8-5 weekdays. We’re located just north of the railroad tracks. Call 783-3242 for more information.