The Alaska Seafood Cooperative (AKSC) has hired Sarah Webster as its new science projects director, replacing John Gauvin who held the position for nearly 30 years. Gauvin will be retiring but will continue to work on some ongoing science projects for the cooperative. AKSC is a cooperative of the Amendment 80 fleet that fishes for flatfish, Pacific Ocean perch, and Atka mackerel in Alaska.
Webster has a background in Alaska fisheries science and experience working with a variety of species and user groups. Before joining AKSC, she worked as a fisheries scientist for the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, focusing on recreational groundfish research in the charter fishing sector. Prior to that, she managed the research program for Alaska Pacific University’s Fisheries, Aquatic Science and Technology Program, supporting projects with the non-pelagic, pelagic, scallop, and charter industries.
In addition, Webster also worked with halibut longliners while serving on the International Pacific Halibut Commission’s Management Strategy Advisory Board. AKSC collaborates with fishery scientists from NOAA and other scientific institutions on research projects aimed at modifying fishing practices and gear to help reduce bycatch and minimize the impacts of fishing on marine habitats.