Issue Position: Fish, Game and Public Land Access

Issue Position

I support the mission and work of the Citizen's Advisory Commission on Federal Areas (CACFA) and will look for ways to increase their role in helping Alaska manage its land and work with the federal government in developing policies that impact Alaskan's access to those lands.

We must protect access to Alaska's fisheries resources for ALL stakeholder groups (Recreational, Commercial and Subsistence). The Department of Fish and Game in concert with the University of Alaska are currently studying the disturbing trend of the dramatic reduction in the abundance of our King salmon stocks. I will support Chinook abundance research efforts so Alaskans will continue to have dependable access to this valuable and iconic resource.

Similar to the issues that necessitated the creation of CACFA is the relationship between the state and federal government for the management of our fisheries resources. While many fish species are largely or entirely managed by the state, halibut is managed by the federal government under the National Marine Fisheries Service. The recent reduction in bag limits for Alaska recreational fisherman illustrate the need for greater state involvement in, if not direct control of, halibut management. I will work with stakeholder groups and our congressional delegation to advance state control of halibut management.

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