Subject: Please Submit a Comment – Support Science-Based Hatchery Management

Dear PWSAC Users and Supporters,

This March, the Alaska Board of Fisheries will consider Proposal 170 and 171, which would reduce permitted pink salmon — and possibly chum salmon — production in Prince William Sound by up to 25%.

Similar proposals have been reviewed in past cycles, and science-based evaluation prevailed. This year, however, there are clear signals that pressure from groups such as the Fairbanks Fish and Game Advisory Committee and the Kenai River Sportfishing Association may influence the outcome.

PWSAC’s mission is to ethically and professionally optimize salmon production in Area “E” for the long-term well-being of all user groups. Our board includes commercial, sport, subsistence, municipal, tribal, and processor representatives.

PWSAC receives no operational state funding. Pink and chum salmon cost recovery fund all hatchery operations — including coho, sockeye, and Chinook programs. A 25% reduction would have broad impacts across user groups.

We are asking you to submit a public comment by Monday, March 2nd, urging the Board to continue making science-based decisions regarding hatchery production.

Please visit Salmon Hatcheries for Alaska (link below) to provide comments and get more information:

https://www.salmonhatcheriesforak.org/statewide-board-of-fisheries-meeting-2026

Your voice matters. Thank you for standing with PWSAC and for supporting responsible, science-driven fisheries management.

Sincerely,
Eli Johnson
Chairman
Prince William Sound Aquaculture Corporation
eli@graphicice.com