Aleutian Arc Priority Benthic Habitats

The Aleutian Arc is a tectonic convergence zone with multiple exploration priorities, including ecologically and economically important seafloor habitats, hazards, and multiple resources including marine minerals, energy, and biological (e.g., fisheries, natural products). Beyond initial exploration, multidisciplinary characterization of these habitats is critical to provide information for effective resource management, hazards avoidance and policy decision-making. Exploration of the Aleutians is likely to identify critical fisheries habitat, gas seeps and mineral occurrences. Given that fishery bycatch of corals and sponges is a serious concern, exploration of these habitats will help inform future resource management decisions that could prevent long-term damage and impacts to ecosystem function. Geological surveys can improve geohazards assessments in this seismically active region, which will help protect life, property, and infrastructure of coastal and Tribal communities. Results from this study may inform both Alaskan and national economies, including food security and human safety. This project represents a high-profile activity with ample opportunities for exciting discoveries of broad public interest, and direct links to resource management, protection, and stewardship.