Dan's Dispatch

Our Alaska State Constitution requires the Alaska State Legislature to ensure our natural resources are managed for the maximum benefit of Alaskans. In the interest of managing our seafood resources, our state fishing institutions should reflect our values and promote policies that ensure Alaskans benefit from our rich ocean resources.

In 1968, the Alaska State Legislature made Alaskan residency a requirement for commercial fishing licenses. Shortly after, that legislation was deemed unconstitutional. Over the last 20 years, a significant number of our limited entry permits have crossed over state lines into non-resident hands. This makes it difficult today for young Alaskans to obtain a limited entry permit.

It is constitutional for our state to grant preference to Alaskans over non-Alaskans. Our institutions should promote policies with Alaskan preference at every level. The state should facilitate avenues for Alaskans to access limited entry permits and quotas.

Our graying fleet is of immediate concern. In 2012, the Alaska State Legislature passed a resolution declaring the rising average age of permit holders to be of serious concern to our state’s economic well-being. While initial preference is given to Alaskans who apply for limited entry permits, there are many obstacles blocking young Alaskans from entering the industry.

Loans should be reasonably accessible to the good people of Alaska so youth can engage in fishing careers. Our loans, quotas, and limited entry permits should be distributed under a structure designed to benefit Alaskans before benefiting folks down south.

Establishing community permit banks so Alaskan fisherman can lease-to-own limited entry permits could be one way to promote improved Alaskan commercial fishing access. Improving access to the Division of Economic Development loans and raising the amount limits could be another. Finally easing access to the Mariculture Revolving Loan Fund program portion of the DEC for shellfish farmers could be a piece in the puzzle of building our shell fishing/farming industry which has great growth potential.

We have to protect our fishing industry’s future. As we in the Legislature attempt to bridge our fiscal gap, it is imperative that we facilitate economic opportunity for Alaskan workers and families.