00                             HOUSE BILL NO. 237                                                                          
01 "An Act establishing June 10 of each year as Alaska Wild Salmon Day."                                                   
02 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF ALASKA:                                                                
03    * Section 1. AS 44.12 is amended by adding a new section to read:                                                  
04            Sec. 44.12.120. Alaska Wild Salmon Day. Alaska Wild Salmon Day is                                          
05       established on June 10 of each year to celebrate the enormous bounty that wild king,                              
06       sockeye, coho, chum, and pink salmon bring to the state year after year. Securing the                             
07       right and responsibility to safeguard Alaska wild salmon was a driving force in the                               
08       quest for statehood, and the subsequent rebuilding of sustainably managed wild                                    
09       salmon runs remains among the greatest accomplishments in the state's history. The                                
10       deliciousness, purity, and healthfulness of Alaska wild salmon is prized the world                                
11       over, bringing the state international esteem and distinction. Wild salmon subsistence                            
12       fishing has sustained Alaska Native peoples for thousands of years, from the state's                              
13       coastline to hundreds of miles into the Interior. Commercial wild salmon fishing has                              
14       been a mainstay industry in the state for well over a century. Personal use and sport                             
15       wild salmon fishing are fundamental life pursuits for urban and rural residents alike.                            
01       Alaska Wild Salmon Day may be observed by educational and celebratory events,                                     
02       projects, and activities to strengthen public resolve to protect Alaska wild salmon and                           
03       the ecosystems that nourish this phenomenal resource and to increase public                                       
04       awareness of and appreciation for Alaska wild salmon and all Alaska wild salmon                                   
05       fishers.