Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska has expressed strong opposition to a recent decision by the National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) concerning king salmon in the Gulf of Alaska. The NMFS has determined that listing these fish as "threatened or endangered" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) may be warranted, following a petition from the Seattle-based Wild Fish Conservancy.

Senator Sullivan criticized the petition and its potential impact on Alaskans. "My team and I have been very engaged on this misguided petition to list king salmon under the Endangered Species Act from the beginning," he stated. He also mentioned a conversation with NMFS Administrator Janet Coit in March, where he advised against this action, describing ESA listing as "a blunt, one-size-fits-all instrument" that could harm both Alaskans and their economy.

Sullivan also highlighted concerns about the origin of the petition, attributing it to what he described as a "radical, far-left activist group." He referred to past legal actions by the Wild Fish Conservancy aimed at shutting down local fisheries.

With NOAA initiating this ESA process, Sullivan is calling for extensive consultation with Alaskans. He emphasized involving those with significant stakes in the outcome, including Alaska Native people and scientists from the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. Sullivan pointed out that these groups possess valuable knowledge about local ecosystems.

He also suggested leveraging resources like the Alaska Salmon Research Task Force, which was established through his 2022 legislation. This task force brings together experts from various sectors to address issues affecting salmon populations across Alaska.

Sullivan concluded by urging unity among Alaskans to protect their interests against external influences: “It is time for Alaskans to unite, as we did to protect our Southeast fishermen."