In 1959, Alaskan lawmakers put into words and made law the idea that the sustainability of Alaska’s bountiful fish life, and specifically that of Alaska salmon, was a top priority. By declaring that “fish…be utilized, developed, and maintained on the sustained yield principle,” Alaska was setting an example to the world that wonderful natural resources can be enjoyed in a responsible manner.
Since passage of this historic and farsighted legislation, Alaska’s government has taken steps to ensure that the sustainability of Alaska salmon and other fish is a way of life rather than a vague ideal. Overfishing, habitat damage, and pollution are all real and current threats to maintaining a healthy stock of fish that endures for generations to come. Despite the significant challenges, Alaska has made great strides in the campaign to keep Alaskan fish not only wild, but sustainable as well.
First, and most importantly, Alaska, in conjunction with national wildlife authorities, goes to great lengths to understand the size of the fish population for every species and habitat. Understanding the characteristics of each population, and how they are changing, allows Alaska to customize its management policies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Beyond simply understanding the fish population, the Alaskan authorities have made active efforts to manage the delicate balance between consuming and protecting such a valuable natural resource. Some of the measures employed by Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game:
Absolute limits on number of fish that can be caught in a certain period of time, as well as limits on the number of persons or entities allowed to harvest in a certain fishery.
Rotating closures to allow some fisheries a “rest” from the onslaught of anglers while maintaining fishing opportunities in others
Monitoring and regulation regarding the size of fishing vessels, as well as specific restrictions on certain types of fishing equipment for both commercial and recreational anglers. These regulations are important as enterprising and creative anglers are forever improving on efficiency not only through their techniques and know-how, but through equipment design as well. Some types of gear which seem to grant an unsustainable advantage to the angler are expressly prohibited, including pelagic longlines and sunken gillnets.
It's up to us to protect the planet. Check out the sustainability tips from the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. You'll love great videosgreat videos that show exactly what Alaskan fishermen are doing to make sure our oceans remain bountiful for our children.
It's up to us to protect the planet. Check out the
sustainability tips from the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. Alaska's fishermen have a long tradition of effective
resource management to ensure that generations to come can enjoy fresh seafood.
