In April 2009 Michelle Ridgway traveled to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, Alaska to share her experiences in Alaska ocean exploration. Michelle spoke to the scientific staff, students from Seward High School marine biology class, and the general public.
Michelle has been doing research in Alaska for over 20 years and her findings are of great interest to the staff at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Her most recent focus is on the unique role of submarine canyons. Michelle is studying continental margin geomorphology, biogeochemistry, and attempting to quantify chemosynthetically-derived carbon sources feeding into northern foodwebs.
A lifelong Alaskan, Michelle has engaged in marine ecological research and exploration in Alaskan Arctic and Subarctic waters. From coastal kelp forests to deep-sea habitats, she has examined the role of physical and biogenic features in supporting the diversity and abundance of species in Alaskan seas. As a diver, submarine pilot and ROV operator, Michelle continues to probe the depths of Alaskan marine waters using cutting edge technology to examine facets of some of the most productive ocean ecosystems in the world.