The Seward Marine Center's shoreside facilities include both wet and dry laboratory space, a research library, a machine shop, and apartments for visiting scientists and students.
About SMC
The Seward Marine Center (SMC) is a major marine experimental facility operated by the University of Alaska Fairbanks' School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences.
The Seward Marine Center (SMC) is the only university-owned marine station in Alaska and the northern-most university marine station in the United States.
SMC operated the 133' R/V Alpha Helix until 2007 when it was sold to Stabbert Maritime. [Read the history of the R/V Alpha Helix]. It currently operates a coastal research vessel, the 28' R/V Little Dipper – equipped with a stern A-frame and winch and operator and is available for oceanographic and marine biological research in Resurrection Bay and Prince William Sound. Researchers can collect water and sediment samples, deploy various nets and trawls methods to obtain samples from Resurrection Bay and adjacent waters. Skiffs are also available.
In addition to support for research vessel operations, SMC provides access to salt water laboratories for shore base marine and fishery research and the door to Alaska's coastal environment. Historically, prior users of the facility have claimed the greatest asset of SMC is its unique location, access to marine life, seawater laboratory system and cordial staff.
SMC facilities include:
• D.W. Hood Laboratory
• K.M. Rae Public Education Building
• Mooring Laboratory
• Staging & Storage Warehouse
• Machine Shop
• 4-Plex Apartment
Also located at SMC is a research library, walk-in freezers and outdoor storage/staging areas and wireless Internet throughout the whole campus.
For further information or to request use of any of the facilities at the Seward Marine Center, please contact the Seward Marine Center at (907) 224-5261.
