February 18, 2014 — We have to help rebuild the industry, and that includes pragmatic environmental polices coupled with a targeted economic development strategy.
This is particularly important now, as the demand for seafood grows in overseas markets. China is growing so rapidly that it's importing seafood to adequately feed its people.
Long Island's fishing industry has shown interest in participating in the global market. But under restrictions handed down years ago by the regional councils, our commercial fishers are forced to deal with a multitude of outdated regulations, from limits on the size of a catch down to the half inch, to fees for every type of license, to special payroll taxes for small bait-and-tackle shops. These regulations are hampering the industry's ability to catch the volume needed to become an international player.
Some states have recognized China's need for food and have responded. U.S. seafood exports to China are up 58 percent since 2011. This has been primarily through West Coast fisheries, such as those in Seattle and Alaska. The West Coast's proximity to Asia is a contributor to this boom, but so is that regional council, which took economic impact into consideration when developing regulations.
China is expected to import $20 billion worth of seafood annually by 2020. This isn't a market New York can afford to ignore.
East Northport-based K&B Seafood is a regional seafood exporter and plans a major push this year. This could inspire other Long Island companies to think about exporting.
While Long Island has focused on attracting new industries such as bio-tech and information technology, our centuries-old fishing industry also needs assistance. According to Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's office, the state fishing industry pumps $1.8 billion into New York's economy and employs more than 17,000 people. The industry is poised to thrive if we can ease restrictions.
A step in the right direction would be for Congress to pass the New York Fair Fishing Act of 2014. Introduced by Reps. Tim Bishop (D-Southampton) and Steve Israel (D-Huntington), the proposal would grant New York membership into the New England Fishery Management Council, which regulates a large portion of the waters Long Island fishermen troll.
Read the full opinion piece at Newsday