Researchers conducting field studies of Steller sea lions in Alaska meet annually to ensure coordination of field activities, a meeting also attended by researchers conducting field studies in Russia or Canada, at captive facilities, and by other interested parties (Appendix 1). The main purpose of this coordination is to minimize potential disturbance to Steller sea lions, and to maximize collaboration and sample or data sharing opportunities1. The 2011 meeting was held in association with the Alaska Marine Science Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska.