Devastation

The Trident fish processing plant in Chignik Bay caught fire two days ago and was almost completely destroyed.  The good news is that every single person made it out safely, with only a few cases of smoke inhalation.  Still, the utterly devastating impact this has on the community is impossible to ignore.  Chignik is a small village and most people here on dependent on the plant for their livelihood in some form or another.  Not to mention the hundreds that have come from as far away as Poland to work here until September and are now being sent home.  I will write more about my personal experiences in a bit.  I am looking forward to getting over to the site today after waiting for several days for the smoke to abate and the Fire Marshal to give his okay.  All of the genetic samples I did were housed in the building on the right, so I am extremely lucky.  Can't say the same for most people around here.   It's just very sad for this small and lovely community.

More cliffs

Just another breathtaking view from Chignik.  Every day when I bike to work, it looks a little different.  Sometimes the snow has melted in various places, sometimes fog covers the top of the jagged peaks.  It's always a surprise and always incredible.

Rare blue skies in Chignik

I just love the dramatic cliffs that surround Chignik.  This summer has been gray and rainy but the sun did make a quick appearance yesterday.  The fishery just reopened so the boats are heading out after a long break. 

I got a surprise break from Chignik Bay when my Fish and Game bosses from Kodiak showed up and offered me a trip out to the Chignik River weir during this last fishing closure.  It was a great opportunity to see a bit more of this area, so of course I took them up on it! Here's me and Mark on the plane ride back.  More pics to come soon.

Isn't it amazing what just a few weeks will do?  Chignik is now lush and green!  It's truly a gorgeous place, lots of mountains and waterfalls.  And apparently bears, there have been several sightings.   Luckily I usually travel with one or two dogs so I'm hoping for the best!