Returns of chum salmon to the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers and to the Norton Sound river system are at record lows, creating an economic disaster for residents in those systems. Based upon historic data, chum salmon bycatch rates increase markedly in the pollock trawl fishery during the remaining months of the fishery, especially during August and September, according to James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, National Marine Fisheries Service.
As of August 8, 2000, all trawling is closed in critical habitat in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska management areas. Trawl fishermen will, therefore, be fishing in areas that may be new for them and may experience unexpectedly high bycatch rates. NMFS advises extra caution by all vessels using trawl gear to reduce all salmon bycatch.
For further information, contact the Sustainable Fisheries Division at 907-586-7228.
IB 00-74: Pollock Fishery Cautioned to Avoid Chum Salmon Bycatch in the BSAI
August 14, 2000 - 9:45 a.m.
Notice of a fishery management action.
