Dear Editor: Given tourist season is finally coming to a close I would like to talk about the impact the cruise ships have had on our environment and economy. I have been a local to Sitka for almost six years, and I always want to do my best to maintain a healthy and desirable environment for this town. Cruise ship tourism has definitely affected our environment in a negative way, as well as causing overpopulation and excessive pollution.
With the negative comes positives, most of our local stores and businesses heavily rely on the cruise passengers every summer for main income. But as we know more money equals more problems. Wastewater from the ships and air pollution have caused disruption of local wildlife, as well as an increase in littering around town and in nature.
I do not believe the tourists should disappear completely; however, I do believe we should revisit past tourism propositions and do our best to reduce harmful effects on our beautiful environment.
Emunah Voluck, Sitka
