October is National Seafood Month, a time to honor the hardworking individuals in the seafood industry who provide us with sustainable and healthy seafood. The United States is fortunate to have some of the most productive and sustainable fisheries globally, setting a standard for responsibly produced seafood. These fisheries not only supply nearly 10 billion pounds of healthy protein but also play a crucial role in supporting over 1.6 million jobs and generating $183 billion in sales across the economy.
However, the seafood sector faces various challenges, including the impact of natural disasters, market disruptions due to COVID-19, global trade issues, concerns about bycatch, competing ocean uses, and the effects of climate change. Coastal communities heavily rely on fisheries for their economic well-being, making it essential to address these challenges to ensure their resilience and sustainability.
In response to these challenges, NOAA Fisheries, with the support of Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, released a National Seafood Strategy aimed at promoting a thriving domestic seafood economy and enhancing sector resilience. The recent release of the Seafood Strategy Implementation Plan outlines specific actions to achieve these goals and address the pressing issues faced by the seafood industry.
One example of this implementation plan in action is the Alaska Seafood Industry Snapshot, which highlights the economic challenges faced by the Alaska seafood industry, including a $1.8 billion loss in 2022-2023 and a 50% decline in profitability from 2021-2023. These impacts have had widespread effects, resulting in job losses and decreased U.S. output. By providing timely social and economic data, NOAA Fisheries aims to support informed decision-making and help communities navigate these challenges.
Partnerships are crucial to the success of the National Seafood Strategy, with NOAA Fisheries collaborating with governments, tribes, regional fisheries management councils, and other stakeholders to address sector challenges. Sustainability lies at the core of fisheries management in the U.S., focusing on supporting the health of natural resources and communities that depend on them. By working together to innovate and adapt to changing conditions, NOAA Fisheries is committed to ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of our oceans and seafood resources.
As we celebrate National Seafood Month, let us recognize the diversity of marine life and the dedicated individuals, communities, and partners who contribute to sustainable seafood harvests. Through collective efforts and a commitment to sustainability, we can support a thriving seafood industry that benefits both people and the planet.