On Monday, Sep. 16, Representative Sarah Vance (R-Homer) called on Governor Mike Dunleavy to request a disaster declaration for the 2024 salmon fisheries in Prince William Sound, Kodiak, and Cook Inlet.
“The extremely low return of pink salmon has devastated the livelihoods of fishermen and communities across these regions, leaving many without income and others facing significant debt,” stated a press release from Rep. Vance’s office.
In a letter to the Governor, Vance emphasized a need for swift action to alleviate the economic hardship that the low salmon returns have caused. “I know there is nothing the State can do to completely alleviate the struggle many fishermen, small businesses, and coastal communities are going through, but there are some things we can do to help,” Rep. Vance said. “I want us to be doing at least that.”
The low harvest numbers this season have left many fishermen without the means to pay their bills, and the economic effects are rippling through coastal communities. Local businesses that rely on a robust fishing season have also been hit hard, and the fish tax revenue—shared between the state and municipalities—has dramatically diminished, creating further financial strain.
“The situation is particularly dire,” Rep. Vance said. “We are seeing one of the worst salmon harvests in recent memory, and it is clear that our fishermen and communities need immediate assistance. The disaster declaration is a vital first step to ensure federal aid can flow quickly to those affected.”
With the season ending in Prince William Sound with just over 5 million fish harvested—less than a quarter of the nearly 20.5 million fish forecasted—the statewide all-species catch stands at 95.3 million fish, marking the worst returns since 1987.
Rep. Vance expressed deep concern for the families and small businesses impacted by this year’s unprecedented low returns and urged the Governor to act without delay. “This declaration is about doing what we can to support our coastal communities as they recover from this devastating blow. These fishermen are the backbone of Alaska’s economy, and we must act now.”
