Alaska Fisheries; Troll Fisheries
The resolution points out that the Southeast Alaska troll fishery is crucial not only for economic reasons but also for cultural and social elements within the communities surrounding it. It argues that if the chinook troll fishery were to close, the ramifications would be severe, affecting thousands of fisher permit holders spread across nearly all 33 communities in Southeast Alaska. The potential lawsuit by the Wild Fish Conservancy does not address the more significant threats to endangered species posed by habitat destruction and industrial activities in regions like Puget Sound, thereby questioning the merit of targeting this particular fishery.
HJR5 is a resolution from the Alaska State Legislature urging various federal and state agencies to defend the state's fisheries, particularly the Southeast Alaska troll fishery, which is under threat due to a lawsuit filed by the Wild Fish Conservancy. The resolution emphasizes the importance of the fishing industry to Alaska's economy, highlighting both the economic output and employment that commercial salmon trolling generates, as well as the need to support local communities reliant on this industry. In 2019, the sector directly employed over 11,300 individuals, underscoring its significance as a pillar of the state economy, especially in Southeast Alaska.
The sentiment around HJR5 reflects a strong dedication to preserving the fishing industry, viewed as essential to both the local and state economy. Supporters from the legislature express a clear commitment to protecting local livelihoods and maintaining the fishing heritage of the region. However, the opposing perspective, led by environmental advocates, raises concerns about the ecological impacts of fishing practices and questions the effectiveness of current fishery management regulations. This bill positions economic interests against environmental conservation efforts, illustrating the complexity of achieving balance between the two.
The most notable contention surrounding HJR5 involves the validity and implications of the Wild Fish Conservancy's lawsuit, which argues that the troll fishery contributes to the decline of southern resident killer whale populations. Supporters of the resolution argue that closing the fishery would not yield tangible benefits for the whales, as they are focused more on threats outside Alaska's jurisdiction. Thus, the resolution calls for local, state, and federal authorities to coordinate resources effectively to protect the fishery while addressing conservation measures without compromising the livelihoods of those dependent on this vital industry.