12/31/2015

Supreme Court Reinforces Science-based Salmon Management, Value of Setnet Fishery

The Alaskan families who comprise Cook Inlets century-old East Side Setnet fishery are both elated and relieved that
Alaskas Supreme Court has ruled the anti-setnet initiative unconstitutional. As a result of this decision, hundreds of
Alaskan families will go into the new year without the threat of losing our businesses, our incomes, our investments and
our way of life hanging over our heads. More important Cook Inlets salmon runs will continue to be managed by the
principles of conservation and science rather than politics and misinformation.
Despite the misinformation campaign waged by the Alaska Fisheries Conservation Alliance, set nets are tightly
managed and highly selective harvest tools that enrich the economy and enhance stability in Cook Inlets salmon stock,
said Andy Hall, president of Kenai Peninsula Fishermens Association. The red salmon runs are strong, and the Kenais
late king salmon run continues to rebound thanks to good, science-based management by the Alaska Department of Fish
& Game. That careful management means more salmon for everyone and that includes sport fishermen, personal-use
fishermen and commercial fishermen.
Alaska has the healthiest and most well-managed salmon runs in the world, and Cook Inlets runs are among them.
These fish are a valuable resource that should be managed responsibly, for the benefit of the region and the state,
especially in light of the current economic crisis facing Alaska. Keeping Cook Inlets runs strong and its commercial
fishermen working and contributing to the state and local economy does just that.

Contact
Andy Hall, KPFA President
907 240 4255