The Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker has declared a fisheries disaster for Alaska pink salmon. I am thankful Governor Walker agreed to my request to include the Southeast Alaska pink salmon fishery in his request to Secretary Pritzker.
The process now moves to Congress for funding. Once federal funds are appropriated, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and fishermen will develop a plan for receiving funds distributed to fishermen hurt by the poor pink salmon harvest in 2016.
Commercial fishing is an economic staple in Southeast Alaska. There are over 3,700 Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission, also known as CFEC, permits in my Senate district. Each permit holder takes risks and works to create jobs, support their families, and help the economy. I will continue to advocate for Southeast Alaska and the fishermen throughout the process.
For more information or to view the letter from Secretary Penny Pritzker, click here.
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