Assessing the Stocks and Establishing Quotas in Alaskan Fisheries

Protecting the natural resources of the environment has never been a simple task, even when activist groups, commercial enterprises and the government are all working together. It's just a difficult process, trying to determine what the right answers will be. Alaska's seafood industry log ago instituted a number of limits on the state fisheries, so vital to the economy of the state. After a careful examination of the habitat and health of each species, scientists examine the fisheries resources and set a number of TAC, or Total Allowable Catch. This figure ensures a healthy future for the fish stock of each species.

The process begins with a collaboration on the part of several different agencies. Alaska's Department of Fish and Game gets together with National Marine Fisheries Service and also the International Pacific Halibut Commission to review the materials available at the beginning of any season. Information on the climate and the environment are weighed along with data of the fisheries resources. The effect of a potentially huge catch on the ecosystem must be considered. Even while it appears a gigantic amount of fish is available, there must be steps taken to ensure that population will replenish itself in the coming year.

The establishment of a quota for each species will then come into play. The TAC will be set for the halibut and groundfish which are part of every harvest. Meanwhile, the many different types of Alaska crab will be examined, with a fixed number set for most types. Escapement will also factor into the equation, a term that defines the number of salmon that avoid capture by a fishery. Sustainability is the key in any quota set and in the assessment of any seafood stock.

Alaska's state government has been a big part of stopping the ill effect of the fisheries, such as by-catch. The penalty for exceeding the number of by-catch allowed is the end of the season for a fishery, making the Total Allowable Catch figures rendered null and void. Such incentives make it a wise choice to respect the environment, a reason the fisheries resources are so closely monitored in Alaska.

It's up to us to protect the planet. Check out the sustainability tips from the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. Alaska's fishermen have a long tradition of effectiveresource management to ensure that generations to come can enjoy fresh seafood.