A push to privatize fishing quotas is designed to help end overfishing and is supported by some scientific research, Matthew Preusch of The Oregonian writes. The so-called "individual fishing quotas" are also designed to make fishing safer by ending the "derby-on-the-sea" mentality. Some fisheries scientists say that fishermen who own a share of the catch will be more careful to avoid overfishing that could hurt their future income. Preusch notes that some groups are urging the Pacific Fishery Management Council and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to go slow because "divvying up the total allowable catch can't restore fisheries if the total allowable catch is more than the fish stocks can bear." NOAA plans to finalize the plan next summer and put it into effect in 2011.
The story you just read is only possible because readers like you support our mission to uncover truths that matter. If you value this reporting, help us continue producing high-impact investigations that drive real-world change. Your donation today ensures we can keep asking tough questions and bringing critical issues to light. Join us — because fearless, independent journalism depends on you!
Despite concerns newsroom staffers shared with InvestigateWest and RANGE, the nonprofit taking over Spokane’s daily paper plans to keep Curley in a leadership role
Get the inside scoop in your inbox, free.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters and never miss an investigation.
