Brannon Finney

Alaska's Fishing Fleet is Getting Older

Published On: 08-24-2022

The state of Alaska is becoming increasingly worried about the aging of its fishing fleet. The issue has been under investigation for four years by a research team. Turning the Tide, its most recent study, offers five suggestions to change these alarming trends. Restoring access to fishing in rural regions is one of those initiatives. One of the main objectives of the Young Fishermen's Summit is to achieve this goal. Here are some suggestions for supporting Alaska's fishing economy.
Prices for the state's salmon fishery have risen recently. In 2012, salmon cost an average of 87 cents per pound ex-vessel, four cents higher than in 2011. More than others, certain fisheries have seen price increases. The state must devise strategies to lessen bycatch's negative effects on the salmon stock. Alaska should also fund infrastructures, such as a processing plant and on-shore fisheries.
In Alaska, a lot of fishermen come into contact with numerous deadly marine animals. Safety gear must thus be carried on board. Both emergency drills and life rafts are required. The CFIVSA also mandates the use of electronic position-indicating radio beacons and survival jackets on all vessels. The number of fishermen lost in capsizes has dropped as a result of the prevalence of boats with safety devices. Brailing is a method used to transport fish in some areas of Alaska. The majority of the fishing fleet, however, relies on catching fish.
An important source of revenue for the state's economy in Alaska is the fishing sector. Nearly 60,000 people are employed there, many of them small-scale fishermen from south-central communities. The state's fishing fleet has close to 8,900 boats. The majority of them are between twenty-three and thirty feet tall. The state's seafood business earned more than $2 billion in sales and produced 5.7 billion pounds of fish in 2019. More people are employed in the state's seafood industry than in any other private business. Alaskans make about a third of the active permit holders and crew personnel in the fishing industry.
Small boats that use gillnets and long-lining gear to capture salmon, herring, halibut, and black cod make up the majority of the fishing fleet in Alaska. Another group consists of trawling-equipped offshore vessels that fish for groundfish and shellfish. In addition, the fleet makes use of a range of different methods and tools to catch its prey.
Due to the low prevalence of atrocious labor violations, Alaska's commercial fishing fleet has received recognition for its social responsibility. Despite this, it has drawn a lot of flak for lacking accountability and transparency. In response, initiatives are being made to guarantee that all commercial fishermen follow ethical standards. This will increase the fleet's ability to compete on the world stage. Although it can be challenging to provide each fisherman with a fair and equal workplace, the condition of Alaska's fishing fleet is a crucial location to start the debate.
Five ports in Alaska routinely rank among the top 10 in the United States for pounds landed. The top three rankings have constantly been held by Dutch Harbor/Alaska. It brought in 763 million pounds in 2018. Kodiak, Naknek, and the Aleutian Islands are among the other Alaskan ports that are among the top twenty. Alaska's natural beauty and richness make it a top choice for commercial fishers.
Even while it's critical to acknowledge the value of EM, the Alaskan fishing fleet already faces a number of difficulties. Governmental organizations in the state are attempting to put industry-specific interpretations of CDC recommendations into action. The federal government must ensure that its restrictions are reasonable while also preserving fishermen's confidence in the sector. However, as this is a continuous process, more transparency is required. Additionally, it will increase industrial safety and guarantee its survival.
In 2016, Alaskan fleets recorded more than 3,000 boat days. The majority of the over 800,000 sockeyes caught came from Canadian waters. The populations from which the co-migrating salmon come are in serious jeopardy. Although there is a lot of sockeye in Alaska, it is unclear how many are genuinely Canadian. And even if there aren't, many co-migratory species are at risk of extinction.

Creating Professional Success in an Industry Dominated by Men

Published On: 07-27-2022

In an industry dominated by men, women may face greater obstacles to achieving career success than men. For example, they may be treated differently due to gender-specific performance standards. This phenomenon, in which women are perceived to be less capable than men, is known as the "glass cliff." Fortunately, there are ways for women to overcome these obstacles. Learn how to achieve career success in a male-dominated industry by reading on.


Developing confidence is one method of overcoming these obstacles. Women must have the courage to fight for their advancement, particularly in entry-level positions. Additionally, they must acquire new confidence skills. They should then begin adopting new leadership styles. They can progress to the next level of success once they have the confidence to make an impression. Before implementing these strategies, however, they should consider the following recommendations.

Women in industries dominated by men must be aware that they must exert twice as much effort to achieve the same level of success as men. Due to the pay gap in these industries, women must work twice as hard as men to attain executive-level positions. This makes them less desirable as potential employees. And it is not sufficient to simply apply for jobs. Women must also recognize the advantages of such a career path.

A woman who has attained a high level of technical expertise in an industry dominated by men will be able to compete with male coworkers. The development of technical skills is essential, but soft skills are more important. The development of a solid character is also crucial. A recent study found that CEOs with strong character have a return on assets of 9.35 percent over a two-year period. Additionally, women contribute $20 trillion annually to consumer spending. Men make up only 12 percent of the total population.

In spite of the fact that men are still underrepresented in many industries, their percentages are gradually increasing. A growing number of qualified women are entering these fields, including manufacturing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that women make up two-thirds of the STEM workforce, which includes science, mathematics, and engineering. In addition, the prevalence of women has increased across all levels of postsecondary education. Nevertheless, there is still work to be done.

The broken rung is one of the greatest obstacles women face when entering the workforce. Women hold the same number of managerial positions as men, but they are promoted less frequently and cannot advance to the C-suite. In addition, the proportion of women in the management pipeline is significantly lower than that of men, and the numbers are even lower at the entry level. If women wish to improve their chances in the business world, it is essential to facilitate their advancement to the next level.

In addition to addressing the root cause of this issue, women should consider their professional objectives. Women should be encouraged to pursue entry-level positions and strive for career success. If they are not, they should begin with entry-level positions and work their way up. This will ultimately increase their chances of achieving career success. Therefore, take this advice to heart: there are numerous paths to success in the technology industry.

Three Pillars of sustainability Principles


Published on: 07-04-2022


Brannon Finney revealed that economic sustainability is linked to carbon emission reductions. In addition to lowering carbon dioxide emissions, it is critical to reducing other environmental consequences. For example, transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Walking and using public transportation are much more environmentally friendly options. Steel industries in Germany, for example, confront high energy expenses. Instead of raising their energy expenses, consumers might install solar panels. Such an investment would need long-term planning and the utilization of renewable energy. Solar panels might help them save money as well as reduce carbon emissions. Aside from manufacturing, additional behaviors that affect economic sustainability include obtaining more efficient raw materials and environmentally friendly goods.


Furthermore, the usage of natural resources is limited. It is not sustainable to use them without considering alternatives. Natural resources in our world are limited. As a result, we must create new procedures and invest in alternative resources to guarantee that our commercial operations do not exhaust them. Overuse of fossil fuels, for example, contributes to climate change. Humans can save the earth for future generations by modifying food production and restricting energy usage.


Brannon Finney demonstrated that the conservation of ecosystems, the regeneration of the source, and the replacement of a nonrenewable resource are three essential elements of environmental sustainability. Because the earth's natural capital is fast eroding, the pace at which the source may be recycled, absorbed, or made harmless in the sink cannot be exceeded. These concepts apply to any resource or industry.


Profit maximization is a frequent objective for enterprises, and environmental sustainability is critical to this endeavor. Developing rules that benefit workers and the community may enhance profit margins while generating goodwill. Finally, a firm might gain from prospective clients' greater discretionary money. As a result, the long-term advantages of environmental measures may exceed the negative consequences of enacting them. The basic concept of environmental sustainability is straightforward: balance the requirements of current and future generations without jeopardizing future generations' needs.


Urbanization poses a significant challenge to sustainability. Urbanization is intricately linked to other regions of the planet. Urbanization creates garbage and waste, and it has an impact on the quality of life of those who live in the region. Sustainable cities should be designed to maximize natural resources while reducing waste. They should also be financially feasible. Cities can create more appealing places for people to live and work in by incorporating these ideas into a design.


What exactly is the connection between social and environmental sustainability? Sustainability is creating a better world for future generations and caring for our planet. It is founded on three basic principles: full-cost pricing, win-win solutions, and our obligation to future generations. These concepts apply to all aspects of society and business. They can make a huge impact if applied correctly. They are also financially feasible.


In Brannon Finney's opinion, the concept of social sustainability implies that societies must aim to improve the well-being of their individuals and communities. It also includes the use of natural resources and the growth of human capital. It also refers to the promotion of equal pay and working conditions for everybody. Creating regulations that meet the requirements of the public is also a critical component of social sustainability. Companies that promote social sustainability, for example, will not abuse people or compel them to work in hazardous situations.


Sustainable practices have the potential to boost company earnings. Policies that help workers and the community, for example, might improve goodwill and prospective consumers' disposable cash. In the long term, the outcome is beneficial to both the corporation and the community. However, if a firm does not adhere to these ideals, it risks losing its reputation and earnings. Many businesses, however, have embraced a corporate responsibility approach centered on sustainability.


Reversing the Trend: Five Steps to Restore Rural Fishing

Published on: 05-24-2022

Brannon Finney suggests five actions to reverse troubling trends and restore rural fishing access. The Young Fishermen's Summit was organized to promote the revitalization of Alaska's fishing culture. This report covers all of these steps and more. Continue reading to learn more about the implications of these recommendations.
The size of Alaska's fishing fleet is mind-boggling. Each of them would span 71 miles from bow to stern if built to the scale of the state's fishing fleet. Despite the size of the state's fleet, Alaskans catch enough seafood to feed the entire world for a month. The copper river salmon season opened last week, and only 33,000 chinook and 400 chum salmon were caught.
This season, Alaska's fishing fleet must fly a quarantine flag. This flag is known as a Lima flag, and it is required to be carried onboard vessels when crew members from outside the state arrive. It's yellow and black, with a 14-day quarantine period written on it. If you're concerned about bycatch on your boat, the local fishing council can provide you with one. These organizations are urging fishermen to take these precautions.
Brannon Finney believes that several factors influence the quality and speed of fishing in a given area. The number of boats in a fishing fleet can have an impact on the quality and speed of fishing. A large number of boats in the Kodiak fishing fleet, for example, may have a higher quality catch than a smaller number of boats in another area. The number of boats is also affected by the weather and the number of fishermen on board. In Kodiak, for example, 85 boats registered for the fishery, whereas only 14 of these boats will work out in Chignik.
According to a recent study by the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, the industry in the state supports 36,800 jobs and generates $5.2 billion in economic activity each year. That is more than enough to make the state the country's second largest seafood producer after oil and gas. Furthermore, prior to the pandemic, seafood processing companies were investing $100 million per year in Alaska. These infrastructure investments are frequently costly and necessitate the use of sophisticated technologies.
Bristol Bay's commercial fishery helps the state's salmon and other seafood industries grow. It produces more than half of the world's sockeye salmon and is home to the world's largest red run. In fiscal year 2019, the fishing industry in this region earned $163 million in taxes.
Quota cuts in Alaska's fishing industry are affecting fishermen whose livelihoods rely on crabbing. Since the quota cuts went into effect in January, fishermen must now decide whether or not to go to the Bering Sea to catch red king crab and other species. Meanwhile, 44% of drift netters do not chill their catch, which has a significant impact on Alaskan fish prices.
While the EEZ closure has impacted many commercial fishermen in the state, it has also created an opportunity for new companies to enter the industry. Rogue Wave Seafoods began operations in November of last year and intends to use the same facilities as the other companies in the region, including Copper River Seafoods and Snug Harbor. Matt Haakenson, the company's founder, previously worked for Pacific Star Seafoods in Kenai and Inlet Fish, both of which closed the fishery in the middle of the season last year. The company owns the facilities and hired him for his local knowledge.
In February, the Cook Inlet Coalition, a Homer activist group, and several commercial fishermen signed a letter urging the state to reject the Kachemak Bay State Park. The Tutka Bay Lagoon Hattery, built in 1975 to increase the number of pink salmon in the state, is mentioned in the letter. Despite the lower per-pound price, the hatchery makes more money from cost recovery harvesting.
Brannon Finney thinks the herring fishery is profitable for Alaska fishermen. A record-breaking 45164 tons of the fish were harvested in 2017. The total yearly catch was 130 million pounds, a 32% increase over the previous year. The Togiak sac roe herring fishery, the state's next major fishery, usually begins in late March, usually at Klawok and Craig.

Celebrity Cruises Names First Female Ship Captain

Published on: 05-04-2022

Brannon Finney asserts that the F/V Alaskan Girl, a 26-foot custom-built whale-watching yacht, is an excellent choice for this trip. The vessel, which was built in early 2014 in Colville, Washington, has minimal flaws and has seen little wear and tear. Capt. Jayleen's favorite ship is still in excellent condition, and she is looking forward to continuing her world explorations on it!

Burnham launched a program called Strength of the Tides to combat misogyny in the maritime industry, which includes events and biographies of women who work there. Boat captains and fisherman are also asked to sign a pledge indicating that sexual harassment and violence will not be tolerated. This promise has been published in the journal Seafaring and is available online. Burnham thinks that by launching the campaign, women in the marine industry would be able to get the jobs they deserve.

According to Brannon Finney, Lydia Jacoby is an Olympian swimmer in addition to her sailing career. She defeated Tatjana Schoenmaker and Lilly King to become the first-ever Alaskan to win an Olympic gold medal. Lydia's parents both work as maritime teachers and educational coordinators and are licensed boat captains. They own a small yacht and reside in Seward. She learned to swim as a child and is now a medal contender at the Olympic Games. Lydia made history on June 15 in Omaha by becoming Alaska's first Olympic-bound swimmer.

Turning the Tide: 5 Steps to Making the Trident Seafood Industry So Important

25/03/2022

According to Brannon Finney , for the last four years, the state has been concerned about the graying of Alaska's fishing fleet. The Turning the Tide study suggests ways to counteract these alarming tendencies. The study also includes five recommendations to assist rural communities in reconnecting with their fishing history and resuming their careers. The purpose of the recent Young Fishermen's Summit was to launch this program. In the next weeks, the task group will meet to review the report and its recommendations.


A skiffman is responsible for keeping the net away from other boats, although the captain may signal him to call for assistance. Training is another method for bringing fish onboard a boat. While this strategy is still used in certain sections of Alaska, the majority of fishing boats depend on catching a bite. In other words, this method is more time-consuming than fishing. As a result, it is critical for stiffen to be aware of all of these risks.
 
The new adjustments will be implemented later this month. These modifications necessitate the use of life rafts on tiny fishing vessels. The new rules will also compel such vessels to go three miles offshore. Many Alaskans will be able to find work as a result of this. Furthermore, it will assist the sector in fulfilling its aim of meeting food output. This implies there is no need to keep up with a sluggish economy. More young individuals entering the fishing sector will help both the state and the country.

Brannon Finney Believes That, the research recommends that the state reduce the financial burden placed on new commercial fishers. The researchers interviewed middle and high school students in Kodiak and Bristol Bay to learn about the challenges they encounter. Regardless of the obstacles, it is clear that there is a need to make the state's fishing business more accessible and inexpensive. It is also vital to note that the state is in the midst of a demographic crisis. The present graying of the fishing fleet should be stopped.
 
The researchers also interviewed and polled young Alaskans and their parents to evaluate the obstacles that their fishing families confront. They inquired about socioeconomic characteristics, upward mobility, and educational ambitions. They also inquired about the issues that each town and area face. According to the findings of the research, societal issues hinder young fisherman from joining the sector. Many households cannot afford fishing equipment, and their children sometimes do not have time to fish.
 
The sustainability of Alaska's fishing fleet has been a top goal for the state administration. The state's commercial fishing fleet caught more than six billion pounds of seafood in 2015, making it the state's greatest catch. While the fish sector provides enormous cash, it also supports millions of other employment in the coastal region. Furthermore, the activity of commercial fisherman contributes to the economy. As a consequence, the fish business has a massive economic influence in Alaska.

 In Brannon Finney opinion, alaska has a massive fishing fleet. If the whole fleet was lined up from bow to stern, it would extend for approximately 71 miles. It is believed that the state's fishing sector processes enough seafood to feed every American for a month. According to the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, the state's commercial fishing industry earns more than $3 billion each year. Two-thirds of this value is accounted for by exports, with the remaining three-fourths going to US markets.
 
The graying of the fleet is a major worry for Alaska. A significant portion of the fleet is over 50 years old, and the fleet's graying is projected to have a detrimental influence on the state's economy. Furthermore, many elderly Alaskan fisherman are less likely to have access to fishing supplies that are accessible abroad. The graying of the fleet is a big problem for the state, its coastal villages, and the state of Alaska.


The commercial fishing sector is Alaska's most significant business. The state's commercial fishing fleet has about 8000 boats and employs 62,200 people. The majority of these boats range in length from 23 to 49 feet. They would span the whole state from bow to stern, covering a distance of 63 miles. And that's just the tip of the iceberg: the rest of the country's commercial fishing industry is flourishing.