U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski announced Thursday that $50 million in fishery assistance, secured through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will be disbursed this week to Alaska’s commercial harvesters, sport fishing charters, and seafood processors. The funding comes as a result of the efforts to make direct assistance available to subsistence, commercial, and charter fishery participants, processors, fishery-related businesses and fishery-dependent communities that have been negatively affected by the economic and other impacts of COVID-19.
Senator Murkowski:
“Alaska’s fisheries and seafood sector are a critical driver of our state’s economy, employing more than 58,000 people and producing billions of dollars in economic output in our state each year. Unfortunately, I continue to hear from Alaska’s seafood industry about the numerous ongoing challenges they are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As I worked to help craft the CARES Act, I was adamant that robust funding was included for those who bring Alaskan halibut, salmon, and countless other seafood products to market. I recognize that the time between allocation and distribution has been frustrating and long, but I’m encouraged to know that those checks are officially hitting the mailboxes of hardworking Alaskans. The positive impacts this funding will have will be felt not only here at home, but across the nation as it boosts our economy and allows Alaska’s world class seafood to continue to be enjoyed around the globe.”
Ben Mohr, executive director of the Kenai River Sportfishing Association:
“Alaskans from all fishing sectors owe a debt of gratitude to Lisa and Dan for directing so much relief to businesses based in our state. Many charter operators and guides were devastated by the loss of business due to COVID, and these funds are a welcome relief.”
In May 2020, as the pandemic was shutting down the U.S. economic, Sen. Murkowski was able to help secure $300 million for fisheries assistance in the CARES Act, of which Alaska received $50 million. Congress approved a new authority through the CARES Act for the Secretary of Commerce to provide direct assistance to fishermen to address losses related to COVID-19. The State of Alaska worked with the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission and NOAA to create a spend plan for the first and second rounds of funding.
The Commission is currently drafting applications for round two, which are anticipated to be available in mid to late January of 2022. To apply for Round 2 funds, applicants will need to know their Round 1 relief amounts. Additional guidance will become available once applications have been finalized and approved by ADF&G staff.
For more information, please contact the Alaska Department of Fish & Game or monitor the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission’s website.
Image credit courtesy of Lake & Peninsula Borough.
