The effects of climate change on Alaskans, particularly fishermen, commercial or otherwise, is a major focus for Terry Johnson. This year he melded scientific research and observations by the public and industry into the 30-page publication Climate Change and Alaska Fisheries.
Johnson concluded that during the working lifetime of today’s younger fishermen, effects of long-term climate change on the fish they target will be profound. Some species will be affected more than others but overall warming ocean temperatures will not be cataclysmic. In 30 years most existing fisheries will continue to be productive, Johnson found, with some changes. To survive and prosper fishermen and communities will need to develop adaptive strategies.
Johnson has presented his findings at more than 10 events. Pacific Fishing Magazine, with the largest industry circulation in Alaska, reprinted the publication, and Seafoodnews.com, a leading online industry news service, published a story on Johnson’s presentations.
