New Science Projects Director for Alaska Seafood Cooperative Brings Decades of Experience to the Role

Sarah Webster has been appointed as the new science projects director for the Alaska Seafood Cooperative (AKSC), 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 an impressive background in Alaska fisheries science and extensive 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, where she focused 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 non-pelagic, pelagic, scallop, and charter industries.

In addition to her work with halibut longliners while serving on the International Pacific Halibut Commission’s Management Strategy Advisory Board, Webster collaborated 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.