New Science Director for Alaska Seafood Cooperative Brings Expertise to Conservation Efforts

Sarah Webster, a fisheries scientist with a background in Alaska fisheries science, has been hired as the new science projects director for the Alaska Seafood Cooperative (AKSC). She will replace John Gauvin, who held the position for nearly 30 years and will continue to work on some ongoing science projects for the cooperative.

Before joining AKSC, Webster 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 a variety of industries including non-pelagic, pelagic, scallop and charter sectors.

Webster also has experience working 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.