Scientists from Alaska expressed serious concerns regarding the future of Arctic research due to significant federal funding cuts. During the American Geophysical Union conference held in New Orleans from December 15 to 19, 2023, researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks highlighted the challenges facing their field. John Walsh, a prominent climate scientist at UAF, and others presented their findings, emphasizing the critical nature of observational programs that have been significantly impacted by budget reductions.
The panel, co-hosted by the University of Alaska Fairbanks and UIC Science, a research company based in Utqiagvik, featured Rick Hinzman, who previously worked in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. He described the current situation as “traumatic,” noting, “There is tremendous cuts to really important programs that are important to enable scientific research.” Hinzman stressed that the ramifications of these cuts extend beyond academia, affecting society as a whole.
In light of these funding reductions, Walsh and Hinzman pointed out that the elimination of key observational programs has led to gaps in critical data. This includes the discontinuation of weather balloons that measure atmospheric conditions, crucial for accurate storm forecasts. They noted that the accuracy of forecasting decreased in September 2025 compared to the previous year, which could have dire consequences for communities vulnerable to Arctic storms. The authors stated that “with Arctic coastlines becoming increasingly vulnerable to storms as the open water season lengthens, the economic and societal benefits of forecast-based warnings of Arctic storms are becoming increasingly apparent.”
Despite the bleak outlook, Hinzman conveyed optimism about the future of polar research. He remarked, “I do believe that the golden era of polar research is behind us, but it’s also in front of us,” calling for collective efforts to raise awareness about the importance of Arctic research.
The geopolitical landscape has added another layer of complexity to Arctic research. McCoy, director of UAF’s Geophysical Institute, noted that international collaborations have been strained, particularly with Russia, following the onset of the war in Ukraine. He recalled that prior to the invasion, Alaska scientists were collaborating with Russian experts on studies related to permafrost and earthquakes. “That all came to a screeching halt,” he said.
On a more positive note, relationships with Greenland and Denmark have seen growth, indicating potential avenues for collaborative research. Additionally, the conference panel emphasized the significance of engaging Indigenous communities in Alaska’s Arctic. Laura Conner, interim vice chancellor for research at UAF, highlighted the value of incorporating local knowledge into scientific investigations. “When you bring those two bodies of knowledge together, they’re much stronger,” she stated.
Researchers like Serina Wesen, outreach engagement manager at UIC Science, stressed that Alaskan communities are directly experiencing the impacts of environmental changes on their subsistence practices. Wesen noted that these shifts affect people’s livelihoods and traditional ways of life, including food gathering. She emphasized the importance of connecting researchers with Utqiagvik elders to foster understanding and adaptation to these changes.
As the Arctic continues to face unprecedented challenges, the call for renewed commitment to research and collaboration is more critical than ever. The insights shared at the conference underscore the urgency of addressing funding issues and strengthening partnerships to safeguard the future of Arctic science and its vital contributions to understanding climate change and weather patterns globally.
