Alaska

Information

Scuttlebutt

Summer, 2023

Providing information, communications, and services to promote safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally responsible maritime operations.

In this snapshot, you can spot our existing Maritime Safety Sites (MSS) (represented by the yellow dots), and the WX2AIS data from R/V KESTREL marked with the pink dot. Take a look at the terrestrial MSS's around Sitka - there is significant wind disparity of at least 10 knots between the coastline and the Wx coming in from the fishing grounds. Our dynamic approach to collecting AIS/weather data bridges critical gaps, ensuring mariners receive the most accurate and up-to-date information for safe, efficient, and responsible maritime navigation.

As the age-old saying goes, "out there, weather is king," and at Marine Exchange of Alaska (MXAK), we hold this adage close to heart. Our journey into enhancing weather data accessibility has led us to an exciting project that has been steadily unfolding over the past few months. In the maritime realm, accurate and real-time weather information is not just a convenience – it's an absolute necessity. 

Our WX2AIS data feed is live on our website! You can access it by clicking the "Vessel Wx" tab you'll see the R/V's MEDEIA and KESTREL thanks to our partnership with Alaska Department of Fish & Game. More to come as more vessels are outfitted.

The genesis of this endeavor traces back to the visionary idea of our Founder, Ed Page. His initial concept revolved around building a hub that would be a central information repository for maritime stakeholders. This vessel weather project is one more piece of that vision. The burgeoning demand from our maritime community for up-to-the-minute weather data before getting underway was the catalyst for this effort. Driven by our commitment to serve the maritime community, we ventured into the realm of integrating weather sensors on vessels and our tech guru, Bryan Hinderberger, is spearheading the effort.

Navigating the waters of funding for weather services has been a unique challenge. While weather data is indispensable, the expectation for its accessibility often skews towards being free. As a result, we have relentlessly pursued avenues to meet these expectations through collaboration with the Alaska Ocean Observing System (www.AOOS.org) to ensure the highest quality of service. For this project, however, the State of Alaska as well as the Maritime Administration (MARAD) have come together to make it happen.

MXAK's weather data is integrated into prominent platforms with the National Ocean Atmospheric Administration and National Weather Service.

With the state's participation, and MARAD's funding, this technology has been successfully integrated and tested on the research vessels MEDEIA and KESTREL. This innovation providing real-time weather data in remote and offshore areas. The benefits of this project are already palpable (as seen above in Sitka). Just the dissemination of data streaming from these vessels marks a significant leap forward in maritime weather intelligence.

We acknowledge the collaborative spirit that propels us. Every stride we take is fueled by a dedication to enhancing safety and efficiency in the maritime domain. Our weather-to-AIS project exemplifies this commitment, not just as a technological feat but as a testament to the innovation and resilience that define MXAK.

This endeavor has been an in-house evolution, championed by our IT team, with invaluable collaborations with stakeholders. With every data point collected, and every vessel enhanced, we are inching closer to a maritime landscape where greater weather knowledge is both more accessible and powerful.

At MXAK, collaboration is at the heart of our mission. With this in mind, we've meticulously designed our footprint to minimize space usage and data frequency on partnering vessels. 

This approach is a testament to our commitment to leave a minimal ecological and operational impact. We're thrilled that this project is taking flight and eagerly anticipate expanding its reach to bridge gaps in maritime safety. Interested in learning more, or participating? Please contact us at info@mxak.org.

In the vast expanse of the Arctic, where maritime traffic has surged twofold in the last decade and geopolitical interests intertwine, MXAK is setting its sights on a pioneering endeavor - Arctic Watch. Anchored in cutting-edge technology and collaborative partnerships with indigenous communities, NGOs, maritime industry, and governments this program stands as a beacon of safety, environmental stewardship, and regional resilience in the Arctic maritime landscape.

Arctic Watch is poised to revolutionize maritime operations in the Arctic. As vessel transits through the Bering Strait escalate, the need for a comprehensive and dynamic marine management system is paramount. This initiative aims not only to ensure safe passage for ships but also safeguards the delicate marine ecosystems from potential harm.

The strategic significance of the Bering Strait, as a pivotal maritime corridor of biodiversity and culture, connecting the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, demands a proactive response. Arctic Watch emerges as a necessity for all vessel operators. This program will play a crucial role in harmonizing maritime activities, disseminating up-to-the-minute environmental information, averting disasters, and helping facilitate rapid response to emergencies. Check out the Arctic Watch website for more information.

Our Executive Director, Steve White, led an engaging session in our boardroom, shedding light on our vital role in maritime safety. Sharing insights, exchanging ideas – all in a day's work as we build bridges between the maritime community and our legislative partners.

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at MXAK? Our Maritime Operations Center (MOC) is where the magic unfolds! Legislators and staff got an exclusive peek, witnessing firsthand how we monitor, support, and ensure the safety of Alaska's waters. Bridging maritime know-how with legislative insight for a safer maritime future!

Photo 1 - Engaged with maritime industry members and stakeholders, Hope and Jake shined as they presented their capstone project, showing how the future of maritime leadership is in capable hands.

Photo 2 - Hope and Jake aboard a Matson Cargo Ship during their Anchorage visit, joined by our Watch Stander Edward. Experiencing maritime operations firsthand, they're embraced every learning opportunity.

Photo 3 - Basking in the sun outside the Haines Hammer Museum, the crew found moments of relaxation amid their action-packed journey. Exploring Alaska's maritime heritage and its breathtaking beauty.

Photo 1 - Sid, John, and Edward share a silly moment in the MOC. A fun snapshot reflecting the bond formed during Sid's insightful exploration of the MOC, which shaped his SHI STEAM Capstone.

Photo 2 - Hope and Jake stand in awe of the North Slope Borough Search and Rescue jet in Utqiagvik. Witnessing the heart of rescue efforts, their journey underscored the critical role of safety in Alaska's remote regions.

Photo 3- Hope, Jake, Sid, and Sen. Kiehl in the House Finance Room. A VIP tour of the Capitol showcases the intersection of maritime industry and public policy. Their journey opened new doors to understanding Alaska's maritime landscape.

Restoring History: Eldred Rock Lighthouse Preservation

MXAK's Assistant Finance Director, Jonathan Wood, showcasing his commitment to ERLPA by volunteering at the Haines Fair. His dedication helps shine a light on the preservation efforts for the historic Eldred Rock Lighthouse.

Founder Ed Page, along with MXAK crew members Byron Hayes and Jon Dale, leading a spirited team on an outing to re-supply Eldred Rock. Ed's passion for restoration is contagious, and with Byron and Jon by his side, they're excited to contribute to the preservation of this historic lighthouse.

Rick's PacTracs Tip

With a distinguished background, Jon brings a wealth of maritime experience to his role as Compliance Officer, working alongside our Compliance and Safety Chief, Ken Phillips.

As a Senior Marine Inspector and Investigator, Jon recently retired as the Chief of Prevention, overseeing a wide range of crucial responsibilities from vessel inspections to marine casualty investigations. His expertise is already proving invaluable to our team and the maritime community.

Outside of work, Jon enjoys a range of activities from fishing, skiing, and hockey to running and spending quality time with his three daughters. He's also an active volunteer as a ski and soccer coach.

We're excited to have Jon onboard and his upbeat and professional attitude have made a positive impression on all of us. We look forward to the contributions you'll make in supporting our mission of maritime safety and excellence. Welcome to the MXAK family, Jon!