Chapter 1 - Introduction

Abstract

This chapter reviews the studies on fish, wildlife, habitats, and communities that are important from public and agency perspectives, sited in and near arctic Alaska oil fields. From an ecological viewpoint, mammal, bird, and fish species of arctic Alaska may be categorized broadly by their food-chain and habitat affiliations. Thus classified, major animal groups are herbivorous mammals, carnivorous and omnivorous mammals, herbivorous waterfowl, “carnivorous” waterfowl (including loons), shorebirds, freshwater fishes, and anadromous fishes. The species and habitats addressed in this chapter are those that have attracted primary attention from environmental management agencies and public interest groups. In most cases, identical or similar species and habitats occur widely in arctic regions, reflecting the circumpolar similarities in the physical forces and biological adaptations that characterize arctic ecosystems. The chapter also introduces physical and biological characteristics of the oil field region of Alaska, the general nature of disturbance, and the investigative approach of the studies conducted in the region.