Saving Seafood

Governor Hochul Announces Second Round of Federal Funding to Provide $5.7 Million in COVID-19 Relief to New York’s Marine Fishing Industry

December 2, 2021 — The following was released by the office of Governor Kathy Hochul:

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an additional $5.7 million in federal funding is available from New York’s Marine Fisheries Relief Program, established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, to provide financial relief for New York’s marine fishing industry. Eligible seafood, commercial marine fishing, marine aquaculture, and marine recreational for-hire fishing businesses are eligible to apply for the funding beginning Dec. 1. This funding is in addition to the $6.7 million in assistance provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, for a total of $12.4 million in aid for New York’s seafood, marine commercial, and for-hire fishing industries after excessive business losses in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt New York’s commercial fishing industry which is reliant on vibrant tourism, dining, and recreational opportunities,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding is essential to assist businesses and coastal communities that have long played a vital role in the State’s economic success. My administration remains committed to supporting marine fishing and seafood industries here in New York and will work tirelessly to ensure financial support is provided to all eligible candidates.”

Read the full release here

 

Bipartisan effort to fight invasive species with new bill

July 18, 2018 — When it comes to invasive species damaging New York’s lakes, forestry and gardens, Rep. Elise Stefanik and U.S. Sen. Kristen Gillibrand found some common ground.

The two lawmakers last week reintroduced the Invasive Fish and Wildlife Prevention Act to protect wildlife from invasive species such as Asian carp or the Emerald Ash Borer, which have wreaked havoc in lakes and deteriorated ash trees in New York’s forests. Gillibrand, a Democrat, and Stefanik, a center-right Willsboro Republican, brought the bill into Congress.

If passed, the act would grant the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service more oversight on invasive species regulation, and would bar such wildlife from entering the country through any means, including being sold here.

Read the full story at the Times Union