California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has taken a bold step in addressing the ongoing issue of declining salmon populations in the Pacific Ocean. On Thursday, he announced that he was requesting a federal fishery disaster declaration, after regional supervisors recommended a full closure of ocean salmon season for the second year in a row. This move has been supported by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, which oversees fishing along the Washington, Oregon, and California coasts.
The decision to close the salmon season comes after years of declining salmon populations, which have been attributed to a combination of factors including climate change, water diversion, and overfishing. This has had a devastating impact on the fishing industry and the communities that rely on it for their livelihoods. The closure of the salmon season last year had a significant economic impact, with an estimated loss of $255 million in revenue and over 2,700 jobs.
In light of these alarming statistics, Gov. Newsom’s request for a federal fishery disaster declaration is a crucial step in addressing the issue and providing much-needed relief to the fishing industry. This declaration would allow for federal funds to be allocated towards assisting affected fishermen and their families, as well as implementing measures to help restore salmon populations.
The Pacific Fishery Management Council’s unanimous support for the closure of the salmon season highlights the severity of the situation and the urgent need for action. The council is made up of representatives from all three states, and their unanimous decision is a testament to the gravity of the situation and the need for a collaborative effort to find a solution.
While the closure of the salmon season may be a difficult pill to swallow for fishermen and their families, it is a necessary step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. Without taking action now, we risk losing salmon populations for future generations, which would have a devastating impact on both the environment and the economy.
Gov. Newsom’s request for a federal fishery disaster declaration is a clear indication of his commitment to addressing the issue of declining salmon populations. This is not the first time he has taken action to protect California’s ocean resources. Earlier this year, he signed an executive order to phase out the use of single-use plastics in the state, showing his dedication to preserving our oceans and marine life.
The closure of the salmon season is just one piece of a larger puzzle in addressing the issue of declining salmon populations. Gov. Newsom has also proposed a $1.3 billion plan to restore the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which is a critical habitat for salmon. This plan includes measures such as restoring wetlands, improving water quality, and increasing water flows to help support salmon populations.
It is important to note that the closure of the salmon season is not a permanent solution. It is a necessary step in the short term to allow for the recovery of salmon populations. In the long term, it will take a combination of efforts from all stakeholders, including government agencies, fishermen, and conservation groups, to find sustainable solutions and ensure the survival of salmon populations.
In conclusion, Gov. Newsom’s request for a federal fishery disaster declaration is a significant step in addressing the issue of declining salmon populations in the Pacific Ocean. It is a testament to his commitment to protecting California’s ocean resources and supporting the fishing industry. While the closure of the salmon season may be a difficult decision, it is a necessary one to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry. With collaborative efforts and sustainable solutions, we can work towards restoring salmon populations and preserving our oceans for future generations.
