Harmful Japan tsunami debris washing ashore in Alaska is highly unlikely, according to state and federal officials who agree that wreckage from the March 2011 tragedy probably doesn't contain major radioactivity.
U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) gathered experts on the topic in Anchorage Friday, as concerns mount regarding whether or not the debris could harm Alaska's prized seafood industry.
The Marine Conservation Alliance, a non-profit which tracks marine debris, expects the main body of tsunami debris to start washing ashore in 2013, although it's already getting reports of Japanese buoys showing up in places like Yakutat.
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Director Kristin Ryan said during the meeting that the state does not anticipate any harmful effects on fish or other wildlife.
As for concerns about salmon reaching potentially radioactive waters, Ryan pointed out that Alaska salmon don't swim near Japan.
The Environmental Protection Agency continues to monitor radiation levels, but the agency has removed two temporary radiation sensors in Nome and Dutch Harbor placed there immediately following the disaster.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is asking any beachcombers who spot potential tsunami debris to take pictures and contact the agency on its website.
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