A proposed bill in Alaska’s Legislature seeks to restructure the Alaska Board of Fisheries, ensuring fair representation across all fishing sectors. House Bill 125, introduced by Rep Nellie Jimmie, D-Toksook Bay, would assign specific seats for commercial sport and subsistence harvesters and designate a spot for a scientific representative.
Under the bill’s provisions, two members would represent each sector, while the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) would nominate subsistence representatives. Meanwhile, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration would propose nominees for the science seat.
This structure is intended to elevate the voices of rural communities dependent on subsistence fishing and integrate science-backed conservation strategies. Chief of Staff Rachael Gunn highlighted the urgency of these changes due to the recent decline in Western Alaska salmon runs, Bering Sea crab stocks, and Gulf of Alaska Pacific cod stocks.
House Majority Leader Chuck Kopp, R-Anchorage, and House Finance Committee co-Chair Neal Foster, D-Nome, are among the prominent individuals who have endorsed House Bill 125. The initiative is also supported by the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, the most significant tribal organization in the state.
The council’s president, Richard Peterson, has emphasized the importance of indigenous methods in fishery management. Despite widespread support, some critics worry about the governor’s power to reject nominees.
Austin Ahmasuk from Nome argued this could introduce political bias. Cordova fisherman Jerry McCune echoed these concerns, suggesting more apparent qualifications for nominees. The bill also sparked discussions about geographic representation, with Rep Rebecca Himschoot, I-Sitka, advocating for diverse regional voices.
While Gunn acknowledged this limitation, she viewed House Bill 125 as a critical first step forward in improving fisheries management. The bill remains in committee as lawmakers deliberate further actions.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
