Saving Seafood

ALASKA: Sole Bristol Bay Health Care Provider Says 2020 Fishing Season Should Remain Closed

April 27, 2020 — With no promises from the State of Alaska or the City of Dillingham to strengthen the health care response to a COVID-19 outbreak this season, the Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation opposes opening the world’s largest salmon fishery “in order to protect the 28 villages [we] serve in the area.”

BBAHC’s statement came just hours before Alaska’s Govenor Mike Dunleavy issued his now nearly daily update on COVID-19 in Alaska. When asked to comment on the statement, Dunleavey reiterated the administrations ongoing discussions with health experts in coastal communities.

Read the full story at Seafood News

ALASKA: Debate over closing Bristol Bay fishery continues as new fishing mandates are issued

April 27, 2020 — There are more calls to close the commercial fishery this season in Bristol Bay.

“To date, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 in Bristol Bay, and BBAHC fears the arrival of several thousands of people from around the world will put its communities and resources at risk,” read a news release from the Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation.

The BBAHC says it is the sole provider of medical care in the region and has a surge plan in place for year-round residents, but does not have the resources for an influx beyond that surge.

“BBAHC has not received a commitment from the State of Alaska or the City of Dillingham regarding what additional resources would be provided in the case of an onset of COVID-19. Without a plan of action, BBAHC resources will most likely will be strained and overwhelmed,” according to the release.

Read the full story at KTVA