On May 1, Rep. Mary Peltola of Alaska introduced the Bristol Bay Protection Act. As a broad coalition of businesses –– from Alaska and across the nation –– our businesses represent concerned industries such as seafood harvesters and processors, recreational fishing and hunting lodges and guides, tourism, supermarkets and grocery stores, chefs and restaurants, outdoor recreation product manufacturers, jewelers, and more. Together, we have long advocated for protections for Bristol Bay’s headwaters from the proposed Pebble Mine, and we supported the entire process whereby the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) used the Clean Water Act to secure the very protections that this bill seeks to enact into law.
The Bristol Bay fishery is not just a source of wild salmon but is also a significant contributor to the nation's economy. It provides a staggering $2.2 billion annually to the nation’s economy and supports over 15,000 jobs. For every fishing and processing job created in the region, three jobs in other industries are created. The economic impact of Bristol Bay's salmon is not confined to the region, as for every dollar generated in Bristol Bay, another $1.27 is generated elsewhere in the state. This thriving economy is a testament to the value of the salmon in its waters, and the economic impact extends far beyond the Bristol Bay region.
The tens of millions of salmon that come from the Bay each year also create jobs and fuel the nation's economy through the restaurant and grocery industries. Sockeye salmon are the most economically important salmon, with half of the world’s sockeye salmon coming from the region. The largest harvest of sockeye salmon in the world occurs in the Bristol Bay area of southwestern Alaska, where, over the last 20 years, nearly 32 million sockeye salmon may be caught on average each year. The millions of portions of salmon that come from the region are prized and relied upon by restaurants, retailers and consumers across the country. Anglers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe travel to Bristol Bay to partake in the unparalleled experiences to be found in its wild and pristine landscapes. Local guides, lodges, tour companies and companies that produce outdoor gear make sales to adventurers headed for the region.
We are committed to securing lasting protections for Bristol Bay's headwaters. This region is not now, and never will be, an appropriate location for large-scale mining. We urge our members of Congress, along with Businesses for Bristol Bay and The Conservation Alliance, to support the Bristol Bay Protection Act. Your support is crucial in ensuring the preservation of this vital resource. We stand ready to help advance this important piece of legislation and encourage you to join us in this endeavor.
