Written Testimony Deadline: December 29 – Board of Fisheries

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Written Testimony Deadline: December 29 – Board of Fisheries

BBRSDA members are strongly encouraged to submit written testimony to the Alaska Board of Fisheries by December 29.

Written testimony is an important way for individual fishermen and permit holders to ensure their voices are part of the public record ahead of the Board’s deliberations.

  • BBRSDA Perspective for Member Consideration

    BBRSDA encourages members to review Proposal 44 and Proposals 61–68 with particular attention to how they may affect the Nushagak District King Salmon Stock of Concern (SOC) Management Plan.

    The SOC plan was developed through a multi-year, stakeholder-driven process involving commercial, subsistence, and sport users, Advisory Committees, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The plan has only been in place for three fishing seasons and was not expected to produce immediate biological recovery given the 4–7 year life cycle of Chinook salmon.

    Available analyses indicate the plan is functioning as intended by:

    • Delaying commercial openings

    • Reducing fishing time during peak Chinook vulnerability

    • Reducing exploitation of king salmon in the commercial fishery

    • Increasing escapement prior to harvest exposure

    BBRSDA encourages members to consider whether allowing the plan to remain unchanged and be evaluated over a full Chinook generation is appropriate before additional modifications are made.

How & Where to Submit Written Testimony

Written testimony must be received by December 29 and should include:

  • Your name and F/V and/or organization (if applicable)

  • Proposal number(s)

  • Whether you support or oppose each proposal

Submit testimony by selecting the ‘Submit Public Comments’ button on this page:

Submit at this link

Member Testimony Template 

Subject: Written Testimony – Board of Fisheries Proposals

Dear Members of the Alaska Board of Fisheries,

My name is [Name], I am a drift gill net fisherman (crew/setnet etc) in Bristol Bay and I am submitting written testimony regarding the following proposals.

I oppose Proposals 44 and 61–68 to the extent that they would modify the Nushagak District King Salmon Stock of Concern Management Plan.

The SOC plan was developed through a multi-year, stakeholder-driven committee process involving commercial, subsistence, and sport users, Advisory Committees, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The plan has only been in place for three fishing seasons and was not expected to produce immediate biological recovery given the 4–7 year life cycle of Chinook salmon.

Available analyses indicate the plan is functioning as intended by delaying commercial openings, reducing fishing time during peak Chinook vulnerability, reducing exploitation of king salmon in the commercial fishery, and increasing escapement prior to harvest exposure.

I respectfully request the Board allow the plan to remain unchanged and be evaluated over a full Chinook generation.

Sincerely,
[Name]
[F/V and/or organization, if applicable]

Learn More

Disclaimer: The information provided by BBRSDA is intended to support member awareness and engagement in the Board of Fisheries public process, including consideration of Proposal 41 and Proposals 61–68. BBRSDA does not speak on behalf of individual fishermen or permit holders, and any positions expressed in written testimony are those of the individual submitting the comments. Members are encouraged to review all proposals in full and submit testimony that reflects their own perspectives and experiences.