Alaska Young Fishermen's Summit

Last week the fourth Alaska Young Fishermen's Summit took place in Juneau for the first time in the event's history and included over 50 participants from 18 Alaskan ports and communities. Sponsored by the UAF Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program, this leadership training for commercial fishermen covers topics such as commercial fishing business operation improvement as well as understanding world seafood markets, regulatory processes, and the importance of science and management of Alaska fisheries. This year participants were also exposed to the legislative process which culminated in attending the House Fisheries Committee hearing on challenges facing younger fishermen today. As one Kodiak participant said, "This Summit gave me a great perspective on my future, and what I need to do to get to where I want to be as an Alaskan fishermen." A salmon gillnet fisherman from SE noted, " It was awesome! I have recommended it to many fisherman already."

Thank you Torie Baker, Cordova MAP agent, for providing this wonderful blog about the summit. For pictures and more information check out the AYFS facebook page.