The Hunter Newsletter, Volume 2023, August (updated revised version) | Page 15

NANA

Boating Safety

Boating is a popular activity in our region . Many people rely on boats for transportation and subsistence activities . However , boating can also be dangerous , especially if proper safety measures are not taken . Here are some safety guidelines to consider when going out in a boat . These simple measures can be lifesaving in a survival situation .

Always wear a life jacket . Even if you are an experienced swimmer , unexpected accidents can happen , and a life jacket can save your life . Make sure that everyone on board has a properly-fitted life jacket and keeps it on at all times . Per the U . S . Coast Guard , persons under 13 years old are required by law to wear a life jacket at all times when in an open boat .
Tell someone where you are going , how long you will stay there and when you will be back . This information is known as a float plan and will be crucial for search and rescue teams . and unexpectedly , so it is important to be prepared . Check the forecast and make sure that conditions are safe for boating .
Have the proper safety equipment on board . This can include flares , a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit . These items can be crucial in case of an emergency .
Take multiple forms of communication devices along with extra batteries and chargers . Always remember that VHF- FM radio is the primary communications network for boating .
Ask Elders and other experienced boaters what safety measures they use when going boating . This will teach you important skills such as how to navigate and operate a boat , as well as how to respond in case of an emergency .
By following these simple safety guidelines , boating in the NANA region can be a safe and enjoyable activity for everyone .
Check the weather before heading out . In Alaska , the weather can change quickly

GeoFORCE

Alaska Empowers Rural High School Students to Pursue STEM Careers Through Unique Field Trips and Hands-On Learning Opportunities

GeoFORCE Alaska is an educational program that aims to inspire Alaska ' s rural high school students to pursue careers in science , technology , engineering and math ( STEM ) fields . Through various hands-on activities and field trips , GeoFORCE Alaska introduces students to geology and natural resources while providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in STEM careers . By showing students the practical applications of STEM in industries such as oil and gas , mining and environmental science , GeoFORCE Alaska helps to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world opportunities . This is important for Alaska ' s youth because it helps prepare the next generation of workers with the skills and knowledge needed for Alaska ' s economic future .

GeoFORCE Alaska is a four-year program . Each summer , the cohort of students reunites to attend a two-week academy in a different region of the U . S . At destinations including Denali National Park , the Grand Canyon , Crater Lake , Dinosaur National Monument and Yellowstone , students practice field geology .
This June , 10 students from the NANA region graduated from the GeoFORCE Alaska program . The GeoFORCE graduates are Celina Wesley ( Kivalina ), Regina Swan ( Kivalina ), Jacob Norton ( Kivalina ), Elicia Jones ( Noatak ), Alex Onalik ( Noatak ), Annie Downey ( Noorvik ), Colt Ticket ( Buckland ), Celeste Mckay ( Kobuk ), Jazmyn Horner ( Kobuk ), and Judy Allen ( Kiana ).
GeoFORCE Alaska students from the NANA region who graduated from the program this year . From left to right : Celina Wesley , Regina Swan , Elicia Jones , Annie Downey , Colt Ticket , Alex Onalik , Jacob Norton , Celeste Mckay , Jazmyn Horner and Judy Allen .
To learn more about the GeoFORCE Alaska program and how to apply , visit geoforce . alaska . edu / apply .

Iñupiat Il . itqusiat Highlight

Community cooks preparing a feast at the gathering of shareholders in Selawik .

Kiŋunigmi Suraġatlasiñiałiq

Domestic Skills

Photo Credit : Jimmy Evak
The Hunter | 2023 August
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