Arctic & Climate Outlook: NOAA’s July outlook for western Alaska leans toward near-normal temperatures, with slightly higher rainfall favored on the Seward Peninsula and a “rainy season” pattern starting in July—plus a reminder that western Alaska has seen notable rainfall increases since the 1970s. Wildlife & Coasts: A fin whale struck by a cruise ship in Seward is under investigation after NOAA found blunt-force trauma; conservation groups are pushing for slower speeds in whale habitat. Subsistence & Habitat Conflict: The long-running fight over the King Cove road is nearing a turning point, with Sen. Dan Sullivan saying construction could start within months—while opponents warn the route could threaten wildlife and subsistence in the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge. Invasive Species Watch: Alaska officials say European green crabs are surging north, urging residents to look for the “5-3-5” shell pattern as the species expands and threatens eelgrass and coastal ecosystems. Fisheries Tech in Bristol Bay: New drone-based tools are being tested to improve salmon escapement counts, aiming to boost data quality for fishery management. Local Rescue: A Seward pilot helped transport two orphaned harbor seal pups to the Alaska SeaLife Center for rehab after injuries and beach findings in the Cordova area. Clean Air Act Fallout: President Trump pardoned a Wasilla diesel mechanic convicted of Clean Air Act violations tied to tampering with emissions monitoring devices—an issue Alaska’s rural operators say is about keeping equipment running in extreme cold.