Scientists from the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) expressed serious concerns about the future of Arctic research following significant federal funding cuts. During the recent American Geophysical Union conference held in New Orleans from December 15 to 19, researchers highlighted the detrimental impact of these budget reductions on crucial scientific programs.
John Walsh, a prominent UAF scientist specializing in climate studies, discussed the consequences of terminated federal observational programs. He emphasized the importance of environmental observations, stating, “The environmental observations affect every part of life. They affect food storage, sustainable resources.” Walsh’s remarks underscored the profound implications of funding cuts on various aspects of society and the urgent need to preserve and enhance existing research initiatives.
The panel, hosted by UAF and UIC Science, a subsidiary of the Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation, featured Hinzman, who previously served in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. He noted, “We’re going through a pretty traumatic time right now. There are tremendous cuts to really important programs that are essential for scientific research.” Hinzman called for collective action to address these challenges, stating that society must “stop the bleeding” and work together to rebuild lost research capabilities.
The researchers revealed that funding reductions have led to the elimination of critical tools, such as weather balloons that monitor atmospheric conditions. This loss compounded existing staffing shortages within the National Weather Service, resulting in decreased forecasting accuracy. The authors of a recent paper pointed out that “with Arctic coastlines becoming increasingly vulnerable to storms,” the degradation of the observational network poses significant risks.
Hinzman expressed cautious optimism, asserting, “I do believe that the golden era of polar research is behind us, but it’s also in front of us.” He urged the scientific community to advocate for the importance of Arctic research and to seek opportunities for collaboration despite current geopolitical tensions.
The discussion also highlighted the impact of international relations on scientific collaborations. Bob McCoy, director of UAF’s Geophysical Institute, noted that joint research efforts with Russia have stalled since the onset of the war in Ukraine. Prior to the conflict, American and Russian scientists collaborated closely on various projects, including those related to permafrost and earthquakes. McCoy lamented the abrupt halt to these partnerships, stating, “That all came to a screeching halt.”
Conversely, relationships with research communities in Greenland and Denmark have strengthened. Panelists emphasized the importance of collaboration with Indigenous communities in the Alaskan Arctic. Laura Conner, interim vice chancellor for research at UAF, discussed the growing partnerships with Alaska’s tribal communities, which integrate local knowledge into scientific investigations. “When you bring those two bodies of knowledge together, they’re much stronger,” she stated.
Serina Wesen, outreach engagement manager at UIC Science, highlighted the daily experiences of Arctic residents facing environmental changes. She explained how these shifts impact subsistence practices and livelihoods. Wesen mentioned ongoing efforts to connect researchers with Utqiagvik elders, working to engage youth in discussions about community changes and how science can aid in understanding these transformations.
As funding challenges persist, the urgency to advocate for Arctic research becomes paramount. Scientists at the conference unanimously agreed that addressing these issues is critical not only for the scientific community but for society as a whole. The future of Arctic research hangs in the balance, compelling stakeholders to unite in the face of adversity and strive for a sustainable scientific future.
