SUSTAINABLE SALMON

Alaska's salmon fishery has been certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council. The recognition was given due to the good stewardship of Alaska, its processors and fisherman in managing its resources for sustainable yield.

Benefits to Foodservice Operators, Retailers & Consumers

As one of nature's original health foods, Alaska Salmon is wholesome while being compatible with caring for the environment. Salmon freely swim in the cold, clean waters of the North Pacific, allowing them to spawn, grow and mature at a natural rate. As a result, the salmon have a natural flavor, color and texture.

Dependent upon the needs of foodservice operators and retailers, salmon is available fresh, frozen, canned/pouched and smoked.

Sustainable Criteria

The certification recognizes the high quality and fundamental conservation strengths of Alaska's salmon management program. To achieve this certification, the Alaska salmon fishery had to meet three conditions:

• The number of salmon harvested must be relative to the number that can be replenished naturally. These species must be caught ethically as well.
• The fishery should be managed to ensure the health and diversity of the marine ecosystem.
• The fishery must adhere to all laws and regulations for responsible and sustainable fishing.

Alaska's salmon management program is implemented through Alaska statutes, regulations, and policies. It assures that each stock and fishery throughout the State is monitored regularly and any management or conservation deficiencies are identified and addressed through management, research, or regulatory action.

The Value of Sustainability

Alaska's fishing industry is the second largest revenue-producing industry in Alaska. The State is the top producer of wild, high-value salmon and approximately 95 percent of all commercially caught salmon in the U.S. are harvested in Alaska.

Salmon also play a critical role in creating sustainable economic opportunities. Thousands of jobs are made available due to the salmon industry. Commercial fishing is critical to communities and fishing families throughout Alaska.