IB 02-36: The Washington Sea Grant Program Presents a Workshop on Seabird Bycatch Avoidance in Petersburg, Alaska on June 6, 2002

The Washington Sea Grant Program (WSGP) is presenting a series of workshops on Seabird 'Bycatch' Avoidance for commercial longliners in several Alaska ports, according to James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).

A question and answer session will follow the one hour presentation on the status of Short-tailed Albatross and other seabirds, research findings on seabird incidental catch deterrents, use of streamer line deterrents, and recommended seabird avoidance regulations and their enforcement. Speakers include Greg Balogh, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Ed Melvin, WSGP.

To date, workshops have occurred in Kodiak, Sitka and Cordova. The Petersburg workshop will be facilitated by Cora Crome, Petersburg Vessel Owners Association (PVOA), and held on June 6 at the PVOA Office, 13 B Gjoa Street, at 7 PM.

There is no cost to attend the workshops. Free streamer lines will be available.

For further information contact Ed Melvin, WSGP, (206)543- 9968, Cora Crome (907)772-9323, or Kim Rivera, (907)586-7424.