Saving Seafood

Changing Environment and Presidential Executive Orders

March 27, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

“This is our food, our way of life and the management of these waters impacts our communities.”

Today, the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council heard a report from the Pacific Islands Fisheries Group (PIFG) summarizing community meetings held in February and March. These meetings gathered fishers’ perspectives on how changing ocean conditions and policies are affecting them. A common theme emerged—fishers provide for families, yet this essential role is often overlooked.

Key Concerns

Shifts in Seasonality and Environments: Traditional fishing patterns are shifting due to changes in fish distributions, impacting fishing efficiency and reliability. “Trips in Guam that used to take two hours now take all day,” one fisher shared. In the CNMI, the ti’ao(juvenile goatfish) season has been unpredictable, while in Hawai‘i, albacore is being caught out of season.

Communities also highlighted the need for better data collection in the CNMI, which could be improved by including catches from Rota and the Northern Islands.

Shark Depredation: Increased shark interference is affecting fishers’ livelihoods. “One Kona fisherman reported losing all six ‘ahi he caught in a day to sharks,” noted Alex Min of PIFG. Some fishers observed that sharks are more frequently found near marine protected areas, leading to concerns about ecosystem balance.

The Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology Shark Lab has a shark deterrent research program. The Council is inviting HIMB to provide a report at its next meeting in June to learn if they have identified methods that could be used by fishermen to improve their catches.

The Council decision-making process is “bottom up” and recognizes the importance of ongoing community dialogue and ensuring fishers’ voices shape policy decisions. Future meetings will be held in Hawai‘i in April and in American Samoa in May, with additional follow-ups across the region in August.

Trump Administration’s Executive Orders

The Council addressed key regulatory issues in response to recent mandates issued by the Trump Administration, including the Department of Government Efficiency and Rescission of Harmful Executive Orders (EOs) and the America First Policy Directive. In particular, the Council discussed potential regulations for elimination under EO 14192, Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation, which requires each federal agency to eliminate at least 10 existing regulations for any new regulation.

Council member Chelsa Muña, director of the Guam Department of Agriculture, criticized the restrictions, stating, “These regulations hamper our ability to manage resources we have successfully stewarded for generations.” As an example, she pointed to the proposed listing of giant clams and Guam’s ongoing aquaculture hatchery efforts. “It is ludicrous to list giant clams while we are actively working on solutions, and even more frustrating that we would need a federal permit just to outplant them in our own waters,” she added.

The Council will advise the Administration of its Endangered Species Act (ESA) concerns: proposed critical habitat designations for corals and green sea turtles; proposed giant clams listing; ESA-related measures like the oceanic whitetip shark take prohibition, where the population is projected to increase; and recognition of indigenous cultural harvest of green sea turtles. The Council will request a review of these issues within the Administration’s policy framework and EOs. Council members supported efforts to rescind or revise unnecessary regulations, aligning with the Administration’s focus on reducing regulatory burdens.

Fishing Council Flags Economic Burdens of Electronic Monitoring, Backs Relief

March 26, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

At the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council meeting today, discussions on electronic monitoring (EM) in longline fisheries in Hawai‘i and American Samoa focused on cost allocation, funding strategies and economic viability.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) confirmed it will cover $4 million in upfront EM program costs, separate from the estimated $2.4 million in annual expenses. This contrasts with the $7 million spent annually on the human observer program. While NMFS will fund server replacements and data storage, industry could be responsible for replacing EM systems at $10,000 per vessel every three years.

American Samoa Vice Chair Archie Soliai questioned whether NMFS would commit to cost-sharing beyond three years. Council Executive Director Kitty Simonds urged NMFS to seek funding from NOAA Headquarters, arguing that federally mandated monitoring costs should not fall on industry. “If the federal government requires monitoring under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, it needs to pay for it, regardless of whether the Council initiates its implementation,” Simonds stated. “We have been suggesting EM since 2002.”

The Council’s Advisory Panel (AP) vice chairs also highlighted the financial strain on the fleets. Nate Ilaoa (American Samoa) said, “It’s not an exaggeration to say we could face total economic collapse in American Samoa. The fleet ensures our seat at management bodies like the Council and tuna commission.” The AP supported reconsidering regulations to help sustain the industry.

Gil Kuali‘i (Hawai‘i) noted the industry prefers EM over observers. “If EM is the gold standard, this is a win for everyone. Our island fisheries are not subsidized, and the fleet shouldn’t be absorbing these costs. EM is more cost-effective.”

Following deliberations, the Council decided that NMFS should cover all EM costs, including administrative and sampling expenses, emphasizing that EM is intended to monitor protected species interactions, particularly as human observer coverage declines. The Council requested analyses on how different ways to implement an EM program could reduce regulatory and financial burdens.

American Samoa members called for support from the federal government for the territory’s longline fishing industry. Vice Chair Soliai pointed to restrictive federal policies limiting fleet growth and commercial fishing access, calling for congressional action to address these barriers. Council members also discussed disaster relief options under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, citing declining catch rates, rising costs and foreign fishing pressure. “We don’t want to give our fish to the Chinese just to buy it back from them,” said Council Chair Will Sword, raising concerns about unregulated foreign activity in U.S. federal waters.

Action Item Outcomes

  • The Council recommended a U.S. catch limit of 393.4 metric tons of striped marlin for 2025–2027 in the Pacific Ocean, with a 381.5 metric ton retention limit for Hawai‘i longline vessels. Catch limits for 2026 and 2027 may be adjusted if the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission modifies the U.S. catch limit.
  • The Council recommended setting an annual catch limit of 401,020 pounds for uku(gray jobfish/blue-green snapper) caught in the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) from 2026 to 2029, with a 36% risk of overfishing. As an accountability measure (AM), the Council recommended implementing a post-season adjustment, reducing the following year’s quota if the three-year average catch exceeds the limit.
  • For MHI deepwater shrimp and precious corals, the Council recommended keeping current catch limits in place through 2028 (see table). These fisheries have low harvest levels. The 2022-2023 average catch for deepwater shrimp was 19,287 pounds. The associated post-season AM is similar to the one for uku.

The Council meeting continues tomorrow Wednesday, March 26, 2025, with a status update on national marine sanctuaries in the Western Pacific region, a report on fishing community meetings in the Mariana Islands and Big Island of Hawai‘i, and fishing initiatives in Guam and the CNMI.

In-Person: Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Ballroom (2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI)

Online: Join remotely via web conference: https://tinyurl.com/202CouncilMtg

Agenda & Documents: www.wpcouncil.org/event/202nd-council-meeting

Fishing Challenges, Clashes Call for Fairer Regulations and Enforcement

March 19, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

“Having a voice is one thing, but making real change is another.” This sentiment resonated at recent community meetings in Kailua-Kona and Hilo, where fishers shared concerns about shifting ocean conditions, regulatory challenges and increasing competition affecting their way of life.

Warmer waters, altered currents and unpredictable fishing seasons have disrupted traditional fishing practices. “We’re seeing warmer water temperatures now; it used to be cooler, around 78°F, but now it’s different,” said one fisher. Changing currents and the presence of invasive species like taߵape (blue-lined snapper) and toau (blacktail snapper) are further stressing local fisheries. The decline of limu (seaweed) due to reduced freshwater flow also raised alarms. “Freshwater is critical for the health of our fishponds, and now, with so many people taking from the groundwater, our reefs are suffering,” said a Hilo fisher.

“Fish are harder to catch, and we have to use lighter lines and adapt to changing conditions,” said one long-time Kona fisherman. “The size of the fish on average is smaller. We don’t see those big 130 to 200-pound ߵahi anymore. It’s becoming harder to compete with sharks and changing regulations.”

Shark depredation has reached a crisis point, particularly in Kona, where fishers struggle to land their catches. “The sharks are smarter now—they target our fish, and it’s taking a toll on our efforts,” one fisher explained, noting that some sharks are learning to bite through fishing lines. With the shark population growing and no clear management solutions, fishers fear for the future of their livelihoods. “We can’t compete against scientists, new rules and sharks,” one participant said. “It’s becoming impossible to make a living.”

Beyond environmental pressures, fishers voiced frustrations over stagnant permit costs and the lack of meaningful enforcement of existing regulations. “Rules don’t matter unless they’re enforced,” one fisher stated. Others questioned whether current policies truly reflect the realities they face, emphasizing the need for more local input in decision-making.

Marketplace struggles were another key topic, with concerns over charter boats selling fish at market and undercutting commercial fishers. “The prices for licenses and permits haven’t changed, but everything else has gone up,” a participant noted. Fishers also expressed worries about flooding the market with catch, affecting pricing and demand.

“We need to take care of our own and find ways to keep the fishing industry alive. If things continue like this, we won’t have a future,” said a participant who has been fishing in Kona for decades.

The Council plans to hold additional fishing community engagement meetings in late April across the rest of the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) and in late May in American Samoa. These meetings aim to gather input on how changing ecosystems impact fisheries to improve governance. For more information, check the Council’s website at www.wpcouncil.org/meetings-calendars.

Upcoming Council Meeting: March 25-27, 2025

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council will meet to address these and other fishery issues in Hawaiߵi, American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. It will consider advice and recommendations from its advisory groups and input from the public on domestic and international issues such as catch limits for North Pacific striped marlin; revisions to American Samoa’s managed bottomfish species list; and annual catch limits for MHI uku (gray jobfish/blue-green snapper), deepwater shrimp and precious corals.

In-Person: Hilton Hawaiian Village, Coral Ballroom (2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI)

Online: Join remotely via web conference: https://tinyurl.com/202CouncilMtg

Agenda & Documents: www.wpcouncil.org/event/202nd-council-meeting

Council Science Advisors Discuss Updates to Protected Species Issues and Strategic Planning for Western Pacific Region

March 17, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) met this week and reviewed protected species management in the region’s fisheries. Discussions underscored the growing influence of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) in regulating fisheries, often overshadowing the Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSA), the primary federal law governing U.S. fisheries.

Council staff provided an update on the ongoing efforts of the Council’s protected species program, emphasizing the mandates for addressing interactions between fisheries and protected species. Staff highlighted past successes in reducing these interactions through innovative gear mitigation measures and technology transfer.

The Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) shared updates on the status of false killer whale stocks, including the final 2023 stock assessment report and outcomes from a 2024 survey. Based on updated assumptions about data uncertainties, the removal limit for the stock has been revised upward from 33 to 36 individuals. This is the number of individuals that could be removed from the stock to maintain optimal stock size.

The SSC raised concerns about disparities in how protected species assessments are reviewed compared to fish stock assessments under the Western Pacific Stock Assessment Review process. Unlike fish stocks, marine mammal assessments lack a standardized peer review process. As one SSC member noted, “Assessments of sea turtles undergo extensive review, including input from SSC members, but marine mammal assessments are not subjected to the same level of scrutiny. This inconsistency raises important questions about the reliability and transparency of the data.”

With new ESA and MMPA regulations on the horizon, including critical habitat designations for corals and green sea turtles and the proposed listing of giant clams, the SSC discussed the potential challenges these changes could present to fishing communities and ongoing projects of territorial governments. The committee also expressed concerns about declining observer coverage and the shift toward electronic monitoring, which may impact data collection used for serious injury and mortality estimates.

SSC Strategic Planning

As part of their ongoing commitment to the MSA process, SSC members discussed ways to improve their statutory advisory role. The committee is evaluating its processes to ensure it provides effective and relevant advice to the Council. This effort includes planning eight special projects for 2025, focusing on both the science and social dimensions of fisheries management. An overarching theme was the integration of community needs with the best available scientific information.

One focus area is determining whether bottomfish should be managed within a complex or if indicator species would offer a more practical alternative. The committee is also working to integrate social, ecological, economic and environmental considerations into its recommendations.

The SSC is also exploring alternative methods to assess the risks fisheries pose to protected species, as well as continuing to evaluate the potential impacts of large closed areas on fisheries across the region. Progress on these special projects will be reported at SSC meetings scheduled for June, September and December.

The SSC meeting agenda and documents can be found atwww.wpcouncil.org/event/155ssc-meeting. The SSC provides advice to the Council, which will meet March 25-27, 2025, at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu, www.wpcouncil.org/event/202nd-council-meeting.

Scientific and Statistical Committee: James Lynch (chair); Debra Cabrera (University of Guam); Frank Camacho (University of Guam); Courtney Carothers (University of Alaska Fairbanks); Milani Chaloupka (University of Queensland); Cathy Dichmont (Cathy Dichmont Consulting); Erik Franklin (University of Hawai‘i); Shelton Harley (Fisheries Consultant); Jason Helyer (Hawai‘i Div. of Aquatic Resources); Ray Hilborn (University of Washington); Alister Hunt (Finology); Dave Itano (Fisheries Consultant); Keena Leon Guerrero (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Div. of Fish & Wildlife); Domingo Ochavillo (American Samoa Dept. of Marine & Wildlife Resources); Graham Pilling (The Pacific Community); Jim Roberts (Anemone Consulting); Justin Suca (University of Hawai‘i); Robin Waples (University of Washington); Charles Littnan (ex-officio) (National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center).

Western Pacific Council’s Science Advisors Examine Electronic Monitoring for Longline Fisheries

March 14, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) met this week to address key issues on electronic monitoring (EM) implementation in longline fisheries. EM uses camera systems to monitor fishing activity onboard vessels while at sea. Discussions centered on EM sampling strategies, funding uncertainties and socioeconomic impacts on Hawai‘iand American Samoa fisheries. An EM program is envisioned to be the primary at-sea monitoring and data collection mechanism for the 150 and 11 active vessels in the Hawai‘i and American Samoa longline fisheries, respectively.

Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) staff outlined an EM sampling design to determine estimates of rare events, such as protected species interactions. SSC members discussed the advantages and challenges of EM compared to human observers and how reduced observer coverage could be addressed. “While the immediate focus might be to implement an EM program, it is critical to think about where you want the program to be in 10 years and to plan for that now in the design phase,” said SSC member Dr. Shelton Harley. “A good example of this is ensuring that EM data are easily integrated with other data sources, such as logbooks and vessel monitoring data.” The SSC will advise the Council and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on technical aspects of EM implementation through a working group it recommended.

Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIRO) staff reported NMFS plans to phase in EM from this year through 2027, using available funding. However, budget constraints are expected to reduce human observer coverage. The transition plan envisions outfitting all Hawai‘i and American Samoa vessels with EM camera systems by 2027, with immediate outreach to vessel owners and operators. 

The SSC reviewed economic analyses outlining potential cost savings and challenges. PIRO noted the industry may need to share some EM costs, including camera system replacements every three years. SSC members raised concerns about the financial burden on vessel owners and the uncertainty of long-term funding. “These fisheries already operate on slim profit margins,” said SSC member Dr. Alister Hunt. “The federal agency is presumably saving costs by shifting from observers to EM, which is a good thing—so why place that burden on fishermen?”

The Western Pacific Region has long maintained NMFS should cover monitoring costs primarily intended for protected species estimation. The SSC recommended analyses on regulatory burdens and costs to fisheries be provided in June 2025 to inform Council decisions.

SSC members emphasized the importance of early industry engagement, cost transparency and evaluating EM’s effectiveness in replacing at-sea human observers. Discussions will continue as the Council works toward a proposed amendment, with initial action expected in June 2025.

EM Background

The Council first discussed the EM concept in 2002, before it became a widely used cost-effective fisheries monitoring tool. Longline fisheries have historically relied on human observers, with a 20% target coverage rate. Internationally, longline fisheries are required to have 5% observer coverage. In December 2024, the Council directed an action team to develop an amendment authorizing EM on all vessels, primarily for protected species monitoring. The action team has since drafted potential alternatives for the Council’s June 2025 meeting, including vessel assignments during the phase-in period.

Catch Limits for Uku, Precious Corals and Deepwater Shrimp

The SSC also provided recommendations on catch limits for several Council-managed Hawaiian fisheries to ensure sustainable harvest levels.

For uku (gray jobfish/blue-green snapper) in the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI), the SSC recommended a catch limit of 408,957 pounds for the 2026-2029 fishing years. This recommendation is based on the latest scientific assessment, which found the stock is healthy but cautioned that catching at this level could gradually reduce fish populations. To help prevent overfishing, the SSC advised keeping a three-year review process to adjust future limits if needed.

For MHI precious corals and deepwater shrimp, the SSC recommended keeping current catch limits in place through 2028 (see table). These fisheries have low harvest levels, but experts noted that if new fishers entered and began harvesting large amounts, it could affect long-term sustainability. The 2022-2023 average catch for deepwater shrimp was 19,287 pounds. The SSC also urged PIFSC to provide updated assessments of these fisheries to ensure the latest science is used to guide future management decisions.

The SSC meeting agenda and documents can be found atwww.wpcouncil.org/event/155ssc-meeting. The SSC provides advice to the Council, which will meet March 25-27, 2025, at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu, www.wpcouncil.org/event/202nd-council-meeting.

 

Scientific and Statistical Committee: James Lynch (chair); Debra Cabrera (University of Guam); Frank Camacho (University of Guam); Courtney Carothers (University of Alaska Fairbanks); Milani Chaloupka (University of Queensland); Cathy Dichmont (Cathy Dichmont Consulting); Erik Franklin (University of Hawai‘i); Shelton Harley (Fisheries Consultant); Jason Helyer (Hawai‘i Div. of Aquatic Resources); Ray Hilborn (University of Washington); Alister Hunt (Finology); Dave Itano (Fisheries Consultant);  Keena Leon Guerrero (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Div. of Fish & Wildlife); Domingo Ochavillo (American Samoa Dept. of Marine & Wildlife Resources); Graham Pilling (The Pacific Community); Jim Roberts (Anemone Consulting); Justin Suca (University of Hawai‘i); Robin Waples (University of Washington); Charles Littnan (ex-officio) (National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center).

Navigating Change: Strengthening the Hawai‘i Fishing Community

March 8, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

Fishing in the Pacific Islands isn’t just a way of life—it’s a legacy, a livelihood and a connection to the ocean that sustains our communities. But when policies change or challenges arise, those who rely on fishing to feed their families or for their livelihood feel the impact first. That’s why your voice matters now more than ever.

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is hitting the road to meet directly with fishing communities across Hawai‘i. These meetings aren’t just about policies—they’re about real people, real issues and real solutions. Whether you’re a commercial fisher, a weekend angler or simply care about the future of local seafood, this is your chance to speak up, ask questions and be part of the conversation. Federal fishery managers, industry leaders and fellow fishers will be there to listen, share updates and work toward a stronger future for Hawaii’s fisheries.

“Fishing is deep-rooted here in Hawai‘i, as it is part of our culture and tradition, it provides food to our tables and contributes to our economy,” said Gil Kuali‘i, Hilo fisherman and Advisory Panel vice chair. “For me, you gotta be engaged otherwise things happen and you don’t get a say. Fishing is what we do, who we are…either you participate or cut bait!”  

Key Topics of Discussion

  • Voice of community in future fishery management decisions
  • Impacts of ecosystem and resource changes on fishing communities
  • Small-boat fishing issues such as distrust in data use, aging fleet, infrastructure and need to integrate fishermen into decision-making
  • Duplication and/or void in federal and state fishing regulations, adverse policies, access limitations and support of fishery development

Meeting Schedule:

●   Kona, HI

Date: March 13, 2025 (Thursday)

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (HST)

Location: King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, 75-5660 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona

●     Hilo, HI

Date: March 14, 2025 (Friday)

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (HST)

Location: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, 71 Banyan Dr., Hilo

●   Community meetings across the remainder of the Hawaiian Islands will be scheduled in late April and May 2025.

The Hawai‘i Advisory Panel meeting will also be held March 13 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. Major agenda items include uku catch limits for 2026-2029; deepwater shrimp and precious corals catch limits for 2025-2028; Hawai‘i and American Samoa longline fisheries crew training and electronic monitoring updates; and longline and small-boat scenario planning, regulatory review and community consultation project discussions.

We invite community members to participate in these vital discussions. Your voice matters as we work together to navigate changes and enhance the fishing community’s future.

For more information, please contact Mark Mitsuyasu (mark.mitsuyasu@wpcouncil.org, 808-479-6357) or Zach Yamada (zach.yamada@wpcouncil.org). www.wpcouncil.org

Experts to Address Key Pacific Fisheries Issues at Upcoming Scientific Meeting

March 6, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

Science is at the heart of sustainable fisheries—join top experts as they review the latest information and provide recommendations for Pacific fish stocks.

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) will meet March 11-13, 2025, in Kailua-Kona to tackle some of the region’s most pressing fisheries management issues. Scientists, fishery managers and industry leaders will set the course for sustainable fishing, from protecting precious corals to shaping the future of longline fisheries.

Hot Topics on the Agenda

 Setting New Limits for Uku

The Main Hawaiian Islands uku (green jobfish) fishery is on the line as the SSC will advise the Council how much can be sustainably caught from 2026 to 2029. With recent challenges in monitoring both commercial and noncommercial catch, the SSC may recommend an acceptable overfishing limit and provide scientific justification for a shift in management strategies. The outcome will impact fishermen, markets and the ecosystem.

 Hidden Treasures: Deepwater Shrimp & Precious Corals

These deep-sea resources are incredibly valuable—but they’re also difficult to study and regulate. With current catch limits expiring soon, the SSC will decide whether to maintain or adjust quotas for species like deepwater shrimp, black coral, and pink and bamboo corals. 

 Cameras on Deck: The Future of Electronic Monitoring

With human observer coverage shrinking, electronic monitoring is set to revolutionize longline fisheries monitoring in Hawai‘i and American Samoa. But who will foot the bill? How will it affect fishers? The SSC will discuss how video footage from vessels will be reviewed and how the new program may impact longline fleets as these fisheries transition into a new era of monitoring. 

This is your chance to hear the science, ask questions and be part of the discussion.

How to Join

 In-Person: Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel (75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI)

 Online: Join remotely via web conference: https://tinyurl.com/155SSCMtg

 Get the Full Agenda & Documents: www.wpcouncil.org/event/155ssc-meeting

The SSC provides advice to the Council, which will meet March 25-27, 2025, at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu, www.wpcouncil.org/event/202nd-council-meeting.

Navigating Change – Estorian Peskadot Marianas: Strengthening the CNMI and Guam Fishing Communities

February 26, 2025 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

Fishing in the Pacific Islands is culturally, socially and economically important. Even small changes can have big consequences, especially when they impact fisheries and habitats. These effects are felt at the local level, directly influencing fishing communities.

The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council will hold a series of meetings with fishing communities across the Mariana Archipelago to discuss key fishery issues. The Council invites all members of the fishing communities in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Guam to participate in discussions aimed at strengthening fishery management and community involvement. These meetings will bring together federal fishery managers, industry leaders, researchers and local fishers to share insights and tackle challenges related to sustainable fishing.

“These meetings are critical for us as fishermen. They ensure that the voices of fishers and their communities are heard in the implementation of federal fisheries,” said Alex Min, project coordinator at the Pacific Islands Fisheries Group, a fishermen-led nonprofit organization facilitating community outreach. “We are focused on understanding the impact and needs of our communities to strengthen fisheries, protect marine ecosystems and support coastal communities that rely on seafood as a way of life.”

Key topics of discussion:

●     The role of community input in future fishery management decisions

●     Open discussions on local community impacts and challenges

●     Updates on federal fishing regulations, policies and support programs

Meeting Schedule:

●     CNMI – Saipan

Date: February 27, 2025 (Thursday)

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (ChST)

Location: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Azucena Room, Coral Tree Ave., Garapan 

●     CNMI – Tinian

Date: February 28, 2025 (Friday)

Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (ChST)

Location: Tinian Public Library, San Jose 

●     CNMI – Rota

Date: March 1, 2025 (Saturday)

Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (ChST)

Location: Mayor of Rota Conference Hall, San Francisco de Borja Hwy., Tatachog 

●     Guam – Malesso’

Date: March 4, 2025 (Tuesday)

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (ChST)

Location: Malesso’ Village Community Center, 440 Joseph A. Cruz St., Malesso’ 

●     Guam – Dededo

Date: March 5, 2025 (Wednesday)

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (ChST)

Location: Dededo Village Community Center, 335 Iglesias Cir., Dededo 

We invite community members to participate in these vital discussions. Your voice matters as we work together to navigate changes and enhance the fishing community’s future.

For further information, please contact Council Island Coordinators for CNMI, Angela Dela Cruz (angela.delacruz@wpcouncil.org, 670-783-8729) or Guam, Felix Reyes (felix.reyes@wpcouncil.org, 671-483-1904). www.wpcouncil.org

Seafood safety specialist releases study dispelling popular tuna, mercury fears

February 11, 2025 — A recent article submitted to the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council provided scientific backing to help dispel fears surrounding mercury levels in tuna.

In a guest article submitted to the management council, John Kaneko, a seafood safety specialist based in Honolulu, Hawaii, highlighted where the origins of mercury fears surrounding tuna first emerged.

Read the full article at SeafoodSource

SSC Recommends Electronic Monitoring Adoption and Tier 6 ABC Expansion

December 16, 2024 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:

At its meeting this week, the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) of the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council made key recommendations on advancing fisheries management in the region. Discussions covered the development of an electronic monitoring (EM) program, SSC strategic plan and revisions to American Samoa bottomfish catch limits, among others.

Advancing EM for Fisheries Management

The SSC deliberated on the transition of EM from a research tool to an authorized fishery monitoring program under federal regulations. With human observer coverage in the Hawai‘i-based deep-set longline fishery expected to drop to 7% by 2025, EM offers a critical alternative for meeting protected species monitoring obligations, including interactions and bycatch estimation.

 

The SSC recommended a phased implementation of EM by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), targeting a fully mandatory program for implementation by 2027. Initial authorization should focus on longline fisheries under the Pelagic Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP), including Hawai‘i-based shallow-set swordfish and deep-set tuna fisheries, as well as the American Samoa tuna fishery. The SSC recommended that EM be used to verify logbook data and fill voids in declining observer coverage to ensure reliable monitoring. 

 

Public comments highlighted industry support for phased EM adoption but NMFS should cover program costs and address data confidentiality.

 

Expanding Tier 6 ABC Control Rules

As part of revisions to managed bottomfish species in American Samoa, the SSC reviewed a proposed Tier 6 rule allowing a rate-based approach for setting annual catch limits (ACLs) for data-limited stocks. The acceptable biological catch (ABC) is used to calculate the ACL, which is the maximum amount of fish that can be caught in a year. Recognizing the need for enhanced data collection infrastructure in each of the island areas, the SSC recommended the Tier 6 control rule be applied across all FEPs.

 

SSC members emphasized the potential for Tier 6 to provide an additional tool to address data-limited stocks to balance fishing opportunities with long-term stock health.  

 

SSC Strategic Plan to Address Key Challenges

The SSC adopted a strategic plan to guide its work over the next several years. The plan aims to address unique challenges facing fishery management in the Western Pacific given evolving economic, cultural and environmental considerations. A key element of the plan charts a proactive role for the SSC in undertaking special projects to inform the Council regarding the impacts of fishery management actions on fishing communities, consumers, fishery economics, and fish and protected species populations. The SSC plans to finalize its project list at the March 2025 meeting, including initiatives on human dimensions and climate resilience in fisheries.

 

The SSC’s recommendations will be presented to the Council for consideration at its meeting next week on Dec. 16-17, 2024.

Scientific and Statistical Committee: James Lynch (chair); Jason Biggs (Guam Div. of Aquatic & Wildlife Resources); Debra Cabrera (University of Guam); Frank Camacho (University of Guam); Milani Chaloupka (University of Queensland); Erik Franklin (University of Hawai‘i, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology); Shelton Harley (Fisheries Consultant); Jason Helyer (Hawai‘i Div. of Aquatic Resources); Ray Hilborn (University of Washington); Justin Hospital (National Marine Fisheries Service Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, NMFS PIFSC); Dave Itano (Fisheries Consultant); Donald Kobayashi (NMFS PIFSC); Steve Martell (Sea State Inc.); Domingo Ochavillo (American Samoa Dept. of Marine & Wildlife Resources); Graham Pilling (The Pacific Community); Craig Severance (University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, retired); Keena Leon Guerrero (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Div. of Fish & Wildlife); Charles Littnan (ex-officio) (NMFS PIFSC).

Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council: Secretary of Commerce appointees from nominees selected by American Samoa, the CNMI, Guam and Hawai‘i governors: Will Sword, noncommercial fisherman/engineer (American Samoa) (chair); Roger Dang, Fresh Island Fish Co. (Hawai‘i) (vice chair); Judith Guthertz, University of Guam (Guam) (vice chair); Pete Itibus, noncommercial fisher (CNMI); Shaelene Kamaka‘ala, Hawaiian Islands Land Trust (Hawai‘i); Frank Perez, AC Sales and Service, (Guam); Matt Ramsey, Conservation International (Hawai‘i); and Gene Weaver, Tasi to Table (CNMI). Designated state officials: Dawn Chang, Hawai‘i Dept. of Land & Natural Resources; Sylvan Igisomar, CNMI Dept. of Lands & Natural Resources (vice chair); Chelsa Muña, Guam Dept. of Agriculture; and Archie Soliai, American Samoa Dept. of Marine & Wildlife Resources (vice chair). Designated federal officials (voting): Sarah Malloy (acting), NMFS Pacific Islands Regional Office. Designated federal officials (nonvoting): Colin Brinkman, U.S. State Dept.; Brian Peck, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; and RADM Sean Regan, U.S. Coast Guard 14th District.