Alaska's Icy Seas

This book is about sea-ice characteristics and coverage in Alaska’s arctic and sub-arctic seas and how it affects people and industry. Alaska’s arctic seas are essential for the economic well being of its residents. The primary factor limiting marine transportation in these areas is the presence of various types of sea-ice for most of the year.

Activity in Alaska’s arctic is closely tied to the ebb and flow of the seasons and sea-ice coverage. Like the farmer who waits for the proper season to plant and harvest, the people of the arctic must also wait for the ice to “go out” before hunting walrus and other game on which they rely. Industry must also time its activities to the varying seasons and the growth and decay of the ice pack.