Duane H. Laible
ARCUS received this sad news from the U.S. Arctic Research Commission.
The United States Arctic Research Commission marks, with great sadness,
the death of our friend and fellow Commissioner, Duane H. Laible. Duane
was appointed by President Bush in 2003, and served the Commission for
more than four years as an active member and subject matter expert on
Arctic shipping and maritime matters. In private life, Laible chaired
the noted marine architecture and engineering firm Glosten and
Associates of Seattle.
During his Commission tenure, Duane actively supported the development
of a U.S. research goal focusing on the future of the Arctic Ocean for
marine operations. It is in large part because of Duane's efforts and
strong endorsement that the Commission unanimously supported the funding
of the Alaska Region Research Vessel, a 236-foot, $123 million
ice-capable craft designed to foster research in high latitudes. The
initial phase of that funding was announced in early August. Duane was
also instrumental in developing content for the National Academy of
Sciences Icebreaker Study, key to the $100 million funding allocation by
Congress in July that directed the U.S. Coast Guard to maintain and
operate its three existing Arctic capable icebreakers and to construct
two new icebreaking vessels. He served as chair of the USARC Arctic
Marine Transportation Working Group whose imminent report will offer a
fresh analysis of research and national investment needs anticipated for
the changing Arctic region.
"It is our intention to see that Duane Laible's commitment to a safe
Arctic Ocean be realized," said USARC Commission Chair Mead Treadwell.
"Duane played a significant role just after the Exxon Valdez oil spill
to ensure safer shipping in Prince William Sound. His work on the
preliminary design of the ARRV exemplifies his dedication to Arctic
research. We will miss his cheer, humor and good counsel."
Former Commission Chair George Newton, described Duane as a truly unique
person: "successful, smart, a leader, and yet not in the least bit full
of himself. It is not surprising that he was a person who gave the USARC
added credibility for he was situated ideally between industry and the
academic community and was respected by both."
The U.S. Arctic Research Commission consists of seven members appointed
by the President to advise the President and Congress on goals for the
U.S. Arctic Research Program. The Commission helps coordinate the work
of over 15 federal agencies conducting research in the Arctic on topics
ranging from climate change to Arctic health, infrastructure, and
resources.