James Balsiger has a Bachelor of Science degree in forestry from Michigan Technological University, a Master of Science degree in forest silviculture from Purdue University and a doctorate in quantitative ecology and natural resource management from the University of Washington.

 

Balsiger helped lead a fish stock assessment program and served as regional science and research director at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle from 1977 to 1991. Between 1991 and 1995, he worked as the center’s deputy director, assuming the full-fledged directorship in 1996.

 

Starting in 2000, Balsiger served for eight years as administrator of the NMFS’ Alaska region. In February 2008 he was tapped to become the service’s acting director. His new post forced him to move from Juneau, Alaska, to Silver Spring, Md. According to his official biography, Balsiger has authored or co-authored some 33 publications.

 

NOAA Names Balsiger Acting Director for National Marine Fisheries Service

Written Testimony of James Balsiger on International Fisheries: Management and Enforcement