FAQs about the Natural History of the Inside Passage

"In Alaska, fishing is an inseparable part of our history and culture. It is critical to us that our fish stocks remain in good supply.” This quote was made by Alaska’s Governor in September 2000, when the first United States fishery and the world's largest—the Alaska Salmon Fishery—was certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as well managed and sustainable (only 12 fisheries worldwide have been certified). Alaska is so serious about fishery sustainability that it is the only state that has written conservation laws into its state constitution. The examples below highlight some of the effective management methods being used in Alaska:

Before the salmon fishing season is opened, state biologists make sure ample numbers of a species have already passed upstream to lay eggs. One method employed is to station state fishery workers in towers above the water to count individual salmon as they swim up current. When biologists ascertain that the quota for a particular run has escaped, word goes out by radio to boats waiting beyond the river mouth. Consequently, in-season harvest decisions are made on local rivers by personnel who know the fishery best.

Most vessels fishing for Alaska whitefish (Pollock, Halibut, Sole and Cod) are required to carry an independent scientific observer on board to record catch data and report back the National Marine Fisheries Service that enforces fisheries regulations. Biological studies are performed to estimate future allowable harvest levels. Official certification has been given to the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands Alaska Pollock fishery and recently The Gulf of Alaska Pollock fishery for meeting the MSC Standard for managing the sustainability of their stocks and their marine environment.

When fishing for King, Dungeness, and Snow crabs only prime males that meet a minimum size for their species are kept. Females and crabs too small are returned to the wild, assuring a future supply. Regardless of seafood being harvested, once the quota has been reached, the season is closed, ensuring the needs of the harvest are balanced with the needs of the ecosystem.