Pairing conservation and competitiveness leads to stronger American fisheries

(WASHINGTON) – In response to the Trump administration’s release of the new America First Seafood Strategy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has issued the following statement from Sarah Poon, Associate Vice President for Resilient Fishery Solutions 

“Twenty years ago, U.S. fish populations were in freefall, and our ocean was at the brink of collapse. But then, fishermen came together with scientists and environmentalists to advocate for strong policies that protect the resource they depend on. Today, these same fishermen continue to advocate for more safeguards to ensure we have healthy fisheries for generations. As a result, the United States is home to some of the most sustainably managed fisheries in the world. Investing in the competitiveness of seafood businesses and fishing communities is essential to maintaining that success, and we welcome the Administration’s efforts to ensure a sustainable and profitable U.S. seafood industry. 

“America's fisheries have demonstrated that conservation and economic prosperity go hand in hand. When entrepreneurial leadership is paired with strong science-based management that incentivizes fishermen to conserve fish stocks, they become champions for sustainability. Across the United States, fishermen have shown that conservation can lead to more stable businesses and stronger market access, supporting both thriving fish populations and fishing communities.

“Unfortunately, the Seafood Strategy will fall short of its goals if the Administration continues to undermine the foundations that ensure U.S. fishermen have fish to catch. The strategy’s release follows widespread federal budget disruptions and staff cuts, and the Administration continues to push for the removal of safeguards that are at the heart of what makes American seafood competitive: sustainability. In the face of a changing ocean, it is strong, science-based management that will ensure consumers have quality seafood to eat and that fishermen can make a living.   

“The path to a stronger American seafood industry is not a choice between conservation and competitiveness. It is achieved by ensuring that healthy fish populations, profitable fishing businesses, and resilient coastal communities succeed together. Investments in domestic seafood markets, infrastructure, and small business support can help deliver those outcomes when paired with durable, science-based management and policies that reward fishermen for doing the right thing.”