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The states of Washington, Oregon, and California cooperatively manage the West Coast Dungeness crab fishery in federal waters under a tri-state agreement that Congress first authorized in 1998. The bill makes that existing authority permanent. The agreement expired without a replacement in 2016.  The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Herrera-Beutler in the House and Sen. Maria Cantwell in the Senate.  President Trump signed the bill into law on August 18.  Kudos to both Rep. Herrera-Beutler and Senator Cantwell for their efforts in moving this important piece of legislation through Congress, which greatly benefits the commercial fishing industry and the crab resource.

As of August 21, 2017, the Alaska salmon harvest stands at 181.6 million, approaching the pre-season forecast of 204.6 million. Current pink harvests statewide lag behind the 2013 and 2015 seasons, but are running slightly above the previous 5-year average. Sockeye harvest is currently at 52.9 million, which includes a 37.3 million catch in Bristol Bay. For more detailed results, go to www.alaskaseafood.org. 

The Alaska Marine Safety Education Association (AMSEA) strongly encourages vessel owners and crewmembers to be mindful about vessel safety. The 2017 season has already resulted in nine commercial fishing fatalities, which is significantly higher than in recent years. A link to the AMSEA article can be found here.