Juneau, Alaska (KINY) – In a recent announcement, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo disclosed the allocation of $12.2 million to address fishery resource disasters affecting several regions. These include the 2022 Kuskokwim River salmon fishery in Alaska, the 2021 and 2022 Upper Cook Inlet East Side Setnet salmon fishery, and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe’s 2021 Puget Sound fall chum and coho salmon fisheries.
The funding stems from the 2022 and 2023 Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Acts, which were approved by Congress to aid fisheries affected by disasters. Eligible fisheries will receive financial support aimed at enhancing their long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability. The funding will benefit commercial, recreational, tribal fishing communities, subsistence users, and associated industries impacted by these disasters.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Raimondo highlighted the urgent need for climate change mitigation efforts, emphasizing the role of these funds in facilitating recovery and building resilience in Alaska and Puget Sound salmon fisheries. NOAA Fisheries utilized data on revenue losses from commercial, processor, and charter fisheries to distribute the funding. The agency also considered traditional and cultural uses of fisheries resources, recognizing their importance beyond commercial activities.
Janet Coit, assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries, underscored the significance of sustainable fisheries in supporting the economy, cultural traditions of Alaska Native communities, and the health of ocean ecosystems. She expressed optimism that the allocated disaster relief funds will aid in the ongoing recovery efforts for affected tribes and fisheries.
Moving forward, NOAA Fisheries will collaborate with the State of Alaska and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe to administer the funds. Eligible activities for funding may include restoration projects, habitat initiatives, vessel and permit buyback programs, and job retraining efforts. Affected fishing communities and businesses are encouraged to engage with relevant entities to access these resources. Certain fishery-related businesses affected by the disasters may also qualify for assistance from the Small Business Administration
