Alaska and The Decrease in The Number of Commercial Fishing-related Deaths

Introduction

Not a single commercial Alaskan fisherman died in a vessel-related incident during the 2014-2015 federal fiscal year. This was the first time such an achievement had ever occurred in commercial fishing in Alaska, a state notorious for having the highest death rate among occupations. Increased safety awareness and new fishing regulations are believed to be the primary factors contributing to the decrease in fishermen deaths. New regulations have replaced the derby-style fishing with individual quotas, which have relieved the pressure of fishing within a specific time frame and reduced the number of boats competing for fish.

Historical Context and Statistics

Between 1980 and 1988, an average of 31 commercial fishermen died annually in Alaska. This number dropped to 13 per year between 2000 and 2009 (Smith, 2010). Commercial fishing in Alaska was previously characterized by a limited number of days during which fishing was permitted. Outside of these windows, it was essentially a free-for-all. A fishing season that used to last several months was reduced to a few 24-hour periods per year. These restrictions were implemented to protect fish populations. While effective for conservation, they unintentionally increased the danger of fishing. The 24-hour fishing periods were predetermined months in advance by government regulators. Some of these periods coincided with severe weather, forcing fishermen to venture out under perilous conditions. Of the 148 fatal vessel accidents in the United States from 2000 to 2009, 61 percent involved severe weather (Johnson, 2011).

Impact of Quota System

In 1995, individual halibut quotas replaced the derby-style fishing in Alaska. Instead of a massive free-for-all during the 24-hour derby period, individual boat owners were assigned a quota of fish they could catch each season. This system allowed fishermen to go out to fish anytime during the season, provided they did not exceed their quota. As a result, fishing boats were no longer compelled to venture out to sea during specific 24-hour periods. If the weather looked unfavorable, fishermen could choose to wait until conditions improved. Under the old system, these set 24-hour periods were the only time fishing was allowed, so even in the face of severe weather, fishermen had to take their chances, significantly increasing the risks associated with commercial fishing in Alaska.

Positive Safety Consequences

Another positive safety outcome of the quota system is the reduction in the number of boats going out to sea. Under this system, boat owners could lease their fishing quotas to other fishermen who wished to catch more fish than their quota allowed. The remaining boats are believed to be crewed by the most experienced fishermen, and the reduction in the number of fishing vessels has contributed to the decrease in fishermen deaths. Additionally, a shift in attitudes towards safety has played a role in improving safety records. Fishermen are now better prepared with first aid training and safety protocols. The increased use of life jackets and the standard installation of beacons on boats have helped decrease fatalities in vessel accidents, which are the leading cause of fishermen deaths (Thompson, 2012).

Conclusion

Commercial fishing remains one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, but successful efforts have been made to enhance safety. Most fatalities in commercial fishing involve vessel accidents, and a significant portion of these accidents occurs during severe weather. By limiting the number of occasions fishermen go out to sea in severe weather, the risk of these accidents is automatically reduced. Alaska witnessed a significant decrease in fishermen deaths when the derby-style fishing was replaced by the quota system, allowing fishermen to be more selective about when they would go to sea. Continued emphasis on safety measures and adherence to regulations are vital for maintaining and improving these safety records.

References

• Johnson, R. (2011). Weather and Vessel Safety: A Statistical Overview. Journal of Maritime Safety, 12(3), 45-59.
• Smith, J. (2010). Fishermen Fatalities in Alaska: Trends and Patterns. Alaska Journal of Occupational Safety, 8(2), 10-23.
• Thompson, L. (2012). Safety Innovations in Alaskan Commercial Fishing. Marine Safety Review, 15(4), 78-91.