Shemya: The Remote and Strategic Island in the Bering Sea

Shemya is a small, rugged island located in the Bering Sea, approximately 1,500 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska. Despite its remote location, Shemya has played a significant role in military and scientific operations throughout history.

History and Strategic Importance

Shemya was first inhabited by the Aleut people centuries ago. In the 18th century, Russian explorers visited the island and claimed it for the Russian Empire. The United States acquired Alaska, including Shemya, from Russia in 1867.

During World War II, Shemya became a strategic military outpost for the United States. The island's location made it an ideal base for air operations against Japan. Shemya was home to an airstrip, radar installations, and a weather station.

After the war, Shemya continued to be used for military purposes. The United States Air Force maintained an air base on the island until 1994, when it was closed due to budget cuts.

Geography and Climate

Shemya is a volcanic island with a land area of approximately 2.3 square miles. The island is surrounded by steep cliffs and rocky shores. Shemya's climate is cold and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 30°F in January to 50°F in July. The island experiences frequent fog and precipitation.

Wildlife and Environment

Shemya is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, sea lions, and seals. The island also supports a small population of Arctic foxes. Shemya's environment is fragile and faces threats from climate change and pollution.

Scientific Research

In addition to its military history, Shemya has also been a site of scientific research. The island's remote location and unique ecosystem make it an ideal place for studying wildlife, climate change, and oceanography.

Research Institutions on Shemya:

Education and Outreach

Despite its remote location, Shemya is home to a small community of scientists and support staff. The island has a school for children and a library. Shemya also hosts educational programs for students and researchers from around the world.

The Future of Shemya

The future of Shemya is uncertain. The island's military significance has diminished in recent years, but it remains a valuable asset for scientific research and education. The challenges of climate change and pollution also pose threats to the island's environment and wildlife.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Challenges: Climate change, pollution, funding cuts
• Opportunities: Scientific research, education, tourism

Why Shemya Matters

Shemya is a unique and important island with a rich history and a promising future. The island's strategic location, fragile environment, and scientific potential make it a valuable asset for the United States and the world.

Benefits of Shemya:

• Military: Strategic outpost for air operations
• Scientific: Site for wildlife, climate change, and oceanography research
• Educational: Provides opportunities for students and researchers
• Environmental: Supports a fragile ecosystem with important wildlife populations

Tips and Tricks

• Plan ahead: Shemya is a remote island with limited amenities. Be sure to pack everything you need before you go.
• Be prepared for the weather: Shemya's climate is cold and wet. Bring warm clothing and rain gear.
• Respect the environment: Shemya's ecosystem is fragile. Be mindful of your impact on the island's wildlife and plants.
• Learn about the history: Shemya has a rich history. Visit the island's museum to learn more about its past.

How to Step-by-Step

How to Visit Shemya:

1. Book a flight: The only way to get to Shemya is by plane. There are no commercial airlines that fly to the island. You can charter a plane or join a research or educational program that includes transportation.
2. Apply for a permit: You will need a permit from the United States Air Force to visit Shemya. You can apply for a permit online.
3. Pack your bags: Bring everything you need, including food, clothing, and toiletries. There are no stores or restaurants on Shemya.
4. Arrive on the island: The airstrip on Shemya is small. Be sure to have a clear understanding of the arrival and departure procedures.
5. Explore the island: There are a variety of things to see and do on Shemya. Visit the museum, go hiking, or watch the wildlife.
6. Respect the island: Shemya is a fragile environment. Be mindful of your impact on the island's wildlife and plants.

Stories and What We Learn

Story 1: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has been conducting fisheries research on Shemya since the 1970s. The research has helped scientists to understand the population dynamics of Alaska's groundfish stocks.

What We Learn: Fisheries research is essential for managing sustainable fisheries. Shemya's remote location and unique ecosystem make it an ideal place for studying fish populations.

Story 2: The University of Alaska Fairbanks has been conducting climate change research on Shemya since the 1990s. The research has shown that Shemya's climate is warming at a faster rate than the global average.

What We Learn: Climate change is a serious threat to Alaska and the Arctic. Shemya's research station is providing valuable data that can help scientists to understand the impacts of climate change.

Story 3: The Smithsonian Institution has been conducting marine mammal research on Shemya since the 1980s. The research has helped scientists to understand the behavior and ecology of sea lions and seals.

What We Learn: Marine mammals are important indicators of ecosystem health. Shemya's research station is helping scientists to protect marine mammal populations and their habitats.

Conclusion

Shemya is a remote and unique island with a rich history, fragile environment, and promising future. The island's strategic location, scientific potential, and educational opportunities make it a valuable asset for the United States and the world.