Alaska Tsunami Ocean Sciences Bowl

Mission Statement

The Alaska Tsunami Ocean Sciences Bowl (Tsunami Bowl) engages Alaska high school students in oceanography, marine science, and environmental stewardship. As part of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) network, the Tsunami Bowl challenges students to apply science, problem‑solving, and teamwork to real‑world ocean issues through two main components: a juried research project and a fast‑paced quiz‑bowl competition.

Students gain experience in scientific writing, public speaking, data analysis, and collaborative research—skills that prepare them for college, careers, and leadership in marine and environmental fields. The Tsunami Bowl also connects students with scientists, educators, industry members, and research organizations across Alaska.

Celebrating more than 25 years of Alaska ocean science education

Each year, high school teams from across the state gather in Seward to present research papers and compete in a buzzer‑style quiz bowl. The event is supported by the University of Alaska Fairbanks College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, with additional partnerships from Alaska Sea Grant, community organizations, and sponsors statewide.

Learn more at:
• Tsunami Bowl Facebook page (for regional updates and event highlights)
• National Ocean Sciences Bowl website (for national rules, resources, and program details)

2025 Results

Overall Winners

1st Place: Juneau-Douglas High School – Coastco Guys
2nd Place: Seward High School – Seward Sleeper Sharks
3rd Place: Eagle River High School – Shrimply Crabulous

Research Project Awards

1st Place: Ketchikan High School – Saber-Toothed Salmon (Score: 184.7)
2nd Place: Seward High School – Sleeper Sharks (Score: 184.3)
3rd Place: Juneau-Douglas High School – Coastco Guys (Score: 182.7)

Sportsmanship Award

Dimond High School – Super Soakers (Outstanding team spirit)

Red Lantern Award

West Anchorage High School (Celebrating perseverance – $500 classroom enhancement education grant)

A huge congratulations to all our competitors for their hard work and commitment to ocean science. Your passion for learning and teamwork was inspiring, and we are proud of each and every one of you.

We also want to express our gratitude to the coaches, volunteers, judges, and sponsors who helped make this event possible. Your support is invaluable in shaping the future of marine science education.

About the Competition For Coaches & Teams For Sponsors

About the Competition

The Alaska Tsunami Bowl recognizes and rewards excellence among high school students interested in ocean studies. It aims to increase awareness of the importance of ocean research by engaging students, teachers, and families across Alaska.

A unique aspect of the Alaska regional competition is the student research project. In addition to the quiz bowl, teams prepare, submit, and present a research paper on a marine-related topic. This interdisciplinary challenge helps students develop skills in scientific writing, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

To encourage broad participation across the state, teams are generally limited to one per school. Additional teams may be allowed if space permits. Please contact the Regional Coordinator for the most current team entry information.

📞 Contact: Jennifer Elhard, Tsunami Bowl Regional Coordinator, (907) 224-5261
📧 Email: uaf-tsunamibowl@alaska.edu

How it works

The quiz bowl portion features fast-paced rounds where students buzz in to answer toss-up and bonus questions covering a wide range of ocean science topics.

Team Challenge Questions (TCQs) test deeper understanding. These complex, written questions require collaboration, critical thinking, and clear communication under time pressure.

The research project asks students to tackle a real-world ocean science issue. Teams must write and present their findings before a panel of experts, who evaluate the paper for scientific merit, creativity, and communication. Like careers in marine science, this component demands synthesis of complex information, teamwork, and persuasive messaging.

How to prepare

Students and coaches can visit the National Ocean Sciences Bowl website for:

Sample quiz questions
Study guides and resources
Official competition rules
Preparation tips and guidance

In addition, both the National NOSB Rules and Alaska Tsunami Bowl Rules provide structure for how teams prepare and compete.

Sponsors and hosts

The Alaska Tsunami Bowl is hosted by the University of Alaska Fairbanks College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, with support from Alaska Sea Grant, local organizations, government agencies, and private sponsors.

The NOSB is a nationally recognized program managed by the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), which provides overall coordination and support for regional bowls across the country.

For Coaches & Teams

For Sponsors

Support Alaska's marine science students

Support Alaska’s Marine Science Students

Be part of something bigger—sponsor a team for the Alaska Tsunami National Ocean Sciences Bowl.

Every year, high school students from across the state gather in Seward for the Alaska Region National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB), known locally as the “Tsunami Bowl.” This high-energy academic event includes a quiz-game tournament, student-led research projects, and a juried marine-themed art show.

Why It Matters

The Tsunami Bowl helps students build real-world skills in marine science, public speaking, and research—all while encouraging collaboration, creativity, and confidence. Winners go on to represent Alaska at the NOSB National Finals.

Many student teams face long travel distances and rising costs to attend. Your support helps provide food, lodging, and travel assistance—especially critical for rural and underserved communities.

Why We Need Your Help

The national structure for NOSB has changed, resulting in less centralized funding and more reliance on local efforts to sustain regional bowls. The Alaska competition is now more dependent than ever on community and industry support.

We’ve also lost a key sponsor recently, increasing the funding gap. Your contribution—whether large or small—helps ensure that this unique, hands-on STEM program continues to thrive.

Ways You Can Help

Sponsor student teams—cover meals, lodging, or travel costs
Support the competition directly—fund prizes, supplies, or judging
Provide in-kind donations—snacks, gear, printing, or tech support
Volunteer your time—serve as a judge, mentor, or support staff

Benefits of Sponsoring

Statewide exposure—teams participate from across Alaska
Public recognition—event program, website, social media, and live acknowledgments
Tax deductible—donations go through the University of Alaska Foundation
Invest in youth—supporting students in science, education, and leadership

Sponsorship Levels

Chinook Salmon Sponsors ($5,000+)

Major award sponsor
Large logo on t-shirts
Recognition on social media, during the event, and in printed materials

Sockeye Salmon Sponsors ($1,000–$4,999)

Small award sponsor
Medium logo on t-shirts
Social media and web recognition

Coho Salmon Sponsors ($500–$999)

Small logo on t-shirts
Recognition in social media posts and the printed program

Pink Salmon Sponsors ($250–$499)

Name on t-shirts
Social media thank-you post

Chum Salmon Sponsors (<$250)

Group recognition on social media, in press releases, and in the program

Ready to Help?

Contact us today to learn how your donation, sponsorship, or volunteer time can help Alaska’s youth dive into the world of ocean science.

📧 Email: uaf-tsunamibowl@alaska.edu
🔗 Learn more about the national program
🔗 Learn more about Alaska’s Tsunami Bowl