Seward – The National Marine Fisheries Service has approved a one-year permit allowing the Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) to incidentally harass marine mammals during construction of the Seward Freight Dock. The permit, known as an Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA), is required under the Marine Mammal Protection Act for projects that may disturb marine life but are not expected to cause serious harm.
The IHA is valid from November 1, 2026, through October 31, 2027, and covers activities such as vibratory and impact pile driving—methods known to generate underwater noise that can affect whales, seals, and sea lions in the area.
Marine mammals potentially affected include Steller sea lions, humpback whales, and fin whales, including species listed under the Endangered Species Act. The authorization was issued after federal biologists determined the project would have a negligible impact on the species and would not interfere with subsistence hunting.
Recent field studies and a public comment period helped inform the decision. No significant public objections were raised, and minor corrections were made to sound level data and estimated impact zones. Monitoring and reporting requirements are included in the permit, along with mitigation steps to minimize harm—such as shutdown zones if animals are spotted nearby.
The full authorization and supporting documents are available online at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-alaska-railroad-corporations-seward-freight-dock-construction.
Federal officials say the IHA meets all legal requirements under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, and the project is expected to proceed as planned.