When many people think of Alaska, they imagine a land of infinite abundance and wilderness to explore. For most of history, the reality would have been even grander than what those people envision. However, several factors threaten Alaska's salmon and halibut populations, and these threats have been increasing notably over the last few decades. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADFG) released an article in 2019, stating that while changes to environmental conditions like ocean temperatures and water currents due to climate change are believed to have some effect on mortality rates, the exact mechanisms behind the increased rates are unknown (ADFG, 2019).
Another significant impact on these populations that seemingly goes unnoticed by Alaskan lawmakers and resource managers is the trawling fleets that scour the northern waters in search of pollock.
What is Trawling?
According to NOAA Fisheries, bottom trawling is the practice of herding and capturing target species by towing a net along the ocean floor (NOAA, n.d). It seems generous to define it as 'target' species considering the amount of bycatch that occurs and the inability to see what is actually being funneled into the net. Floats are attached to a rope opening the trawl net, while weights and other gear are attached to the bottom to hold it open as it's dragged across the ocean floor. The mouth of the net can be up to 300 feet wide, enough to comfortably fit a Boeing 747 (Federman, 2023). Fish and crustaceans are swept into the net and pushed to the back as the boat pulls it along. As a result, the sheer amount of weight crushes the fish, killing them before they come to the surface.
The Impact on Alaska's Fisheries
While trawling may be effective for harvesting large quantities of pollock, it has devastating effects on Alaska's salmon and halibut populations. The indiscriminate nature of trawling means that non-target species, such as salmon and halibut, are often caught as bycatch. These unintended catches can significantly reduce the populations of these important species, disrupting the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem.
Moreover, the physical destruction caused by trawling on the ocean floor can have long-lasting impacts on the habitats of various marine organisms. The heavy nets used in bottom trawling can destroy coral reefs, sponge beds, and other vital habitats, further threatening the survival of Alaska's fisheries.
The Call for Change
To protect Alaska's valuable fish populations and the livelihoods of those who depend on them, it is crucial for lawmakers and resource managers to take action. Implementing stricter regulations on trawling practices, establishing marine protected areas, and promoting sustainable fishing methods can help mitigate the negative impacts of trawling on Alaska's fisheries.
Education and awareness are also key in driving change. By informing the public about the dangers of trawling and advocating for responsible fishing practices, we can work together to ensure the health and sustainability of Alaska's marine ecosystems for future generations.
The time to act is now. Alaska's fisheries are a precious resource that must be safeguarded, and it is up to all of us to ensure that they remain a thriving part of our natural heritage.
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