Cook Inlet Set Net Permit Buy Back
Pressure from competing interests on our king salmon runs and the economic impact that has had on members of our community is a big issue for the Kenai. Picking up the baton from my predecessor, Senator Peter Micciche, I introduced a bill last Session to create a voluntary buy-back program for commercial set net fishing permits on the east side of Cook Inlet. The program would remove almost half of the set nets from east side beaches using federal and non-governmental organization funds. It will not require the use of any state funds and will set a common value for permits/sites.
Restrictions have been implemented to protect the king salmon returns to the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers. As a result, the Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission reports show that the East Side Set Net fishery is no longer economically viable. Changes must be made to ensure this 150 plus year fishery is able to continue while also allowing users upstream to harvest king salmon. This bill encourages the downsizing of the number of commercial fishing operations in the area, allowing those who wish to leave to do so more easily.
During the 2023 Legislative session, the bill was heard and moved out of the Senate Resources Committee. It is now in the Finance Committee where I look forward to presenting the need for the program to colleagues and encouraging its passage.
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