Governor Gavin Newsom has formally requested a federal fishery disaster declaration to aid the albacore fishing industry, which is experiencing its worst season in over three decades. The volume of California’s albacore fishery dropped by 71%, and its value decreased by 65%.
The request was made in collaboration with the governors of Washington and Oregon, directed to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. If granted, this declaration would initiate financial relief for communities dependent on the albacore fishing industry.
Governor Newsom emphasized the significance of this industry to the West Coast economy, stating: “To the California communities that rely on albacore fishing: we’re working to get you the relief you need. A federal fishery disaster will help provide relief to an industry that is an essential component of the West Coast economy and provides significant benefits to countless coastal communities.”
Earlier in the year, Newsom’s administration also sought a federal fishery disaster ahead of closing the ocean salmon fishing season. Such declarations have previously been crucial in supporting communities affected by challenging fishing seasons.
