Legislature(2025 - 2026)GRUENBERG 120
04/24/2025 10:00 AM House FISHERIES
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| HB199 | |
| Adjourn |
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| *+ | HB 199 | TELECONFERENCED | |
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ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
HOUSE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON FISHERIES
April 24, 2025
10:04 a.m.
DRAFT
MEMBERS PRESENT
Representative Louise Stutes, Chair
Representative Bryce Edgmon, Vice Chair
Representative Rebecca Himschoot
Representative Chuck Kopp
Representative Kevin McCabe
Representative Sarah Vance
Representative Bill Elam
MEMBERS ABSENT
All members present
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
- HEARD
BOARD OF FISHERIES
HOUSE BILL NO. 199
"An Act relating to the Department of Commerce, Community, and
Economic Development; relating to the Alaska Commercial Fishing
and Agriculture Bank; relating to certain loans made by the
Alaska Commercial Fishing and Agriculture Bank; and providing
for an effective date."
- HEARD & HELD
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 1
Establishing the Joint Legislative Task Force on Sport Fishing
Service Providers in Southeast Alaska.
- BILL HEARING CANCELED
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: HB 199
SHORT TITLE: AK COMMERCIAL FISHING & AG BANK; LOANS
SPONSOR(s): FISHERIES BY REQUEST OF TASK FORCE EVAL ALASKA
SEAFOOD INDUSTRY
04/16/25 (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
04/16/25 (H) FSH, FIN
04/24/25 (H) FSH AT 10:00 AM GRUENBERG 120
WITNESS REGISTER
THOMAS CARPENTER, Appointee
Cordova, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: As appointee, gave testimony about the
Board of Fisheries and his qualifications and interest to the
board.
KATIE HARMS, representing self
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Gave public testimony regarding the absence
of coastal representation on the Board of Fisheries.
ROBERT MACK, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenters
appointment to the Board of Fisheries.
SAM MUTCH, representing self
Kodiak, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenters
appointment to the Board of Fisheries.
BOB MURPHY, Executive Director
Concerned Area M Fishermen
Kodiak, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenters
appointment to the Board of Fisheries.
GARY HOLLIER, representing self
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenters
appointment to the Board of Fisheries.
DAN MACDONALD, representing self
Bellingham, Washington
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenters
appointment to the Board of Fisheries.
KIM LANDEEN, Co-Executive Director
Southeast Alaska Guides Organization
Ketchikan, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Tom Carpenter to
the Board of Fisheries.
OLIVIA HENAAYEE IRWIN, Appointee
Nenana, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: As appointee, gave testimony about the
Board of Fisheries and her qualifications and interest to the
board.
GARY HOLLIER, Self
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
CRAIG THYTHLOOK, Fisheries Policy Director
Native Peoples Action
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
GRACY KIRKEY, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
MATTHEW LOHRSTORFER, representing self
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
DONALD STILES, representing self
Nome, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
JOEL JACKSON, President
Organized Village of Kake
Kake, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
ROCHELLE ADAMS, representing self
Beaver, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
SHANNON MARTIN, Executive Director
Kenai River Sportfishing Association
Soldotna, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
EVA BURK, Science and Policy Lead
Yukon River Intertribal Fish Commission
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
PHIL DOHERTY, Executive Director
Southeast Alaska Seiners Association
Ketchikan, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified regarding concerns of the absence
of a Southeast Alaska affiliated Board of Fisheries member.
KELSI IVANOFF, representing self
Unalakleet, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
AL BARRETTE, representing self
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
VIRGIL UMPHENOUR, representing self
North Pole, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries.
Kyle Neumann, Staff
Representative Louise Stutes
Alaska State Legislature
POSITION STATEMENT: Presented HB 199, sponsored by the House
Special Committee on Fisheries at the request of the Joint
Legislative Taskforce Evaluating Alaska's Seafood Industry.
SHARON LECHNER, President
Alaska Commercial Fishing and Agriculture Bank
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Gave invited testimony in support of HB
199.
ACTION NARRATIVE
10:04:46 AM
CHAIR LOUISE STUTES called the House Special Committee on
Fisheries meeting to order at 10:04 a.m. Representatives Vance,
Kopp, Edgmon, and Stutes were present at the call to order.
Representatives McCabe, Elam, and Himschoot arrived as the
meeting was in progress.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
^BOARD OF FISHERIES
BOARD OF FISHERIES
10:05:44 AM
CHAIR STUTES announced that the first order of business would be
the confirmation hearings for Thomas Carpenter to the Board of
Fisheries.
10:07:13 AM
The committee took a brief at-ease at 10:07 a.m.
10:11:21 AM
THOMAS CARPENTER, Appointee, gave testimony about the Board of
Fisheries and his qualifications and interest to the board. He
thanked both the committee for the opportunity to speak and the
governor for both his current nomination and his previous
nomination from three years ago. He noted that the committee
had his resume but wished to highlight a few experiences he felt
was relevant to the job.
MR. CARPENTER For the past two years, he has served as vice
chair of the Board of Fisheries. As part of his tenure, he
chaired the Herring Revitalization Committee, leading
discussions on the state's herring fishery challenges.
Additionally, he was involved in the Alaska Salmon Research Task
Force, a collaborative effort focused on identifying critical
research needs specific to Alaska's salmon populations. He
originally sought appointment and now seeks reappointment due to
his strong commitment to addressing the critical fisheries
issues affecting communities statewide. Through his work on the
board, he has gained significant knowledge and believes that
effective problem-solving requires collaboration, compromise,
and negotiation among user groups.
MR. CARPENTER noted that among his key projects, he played a
significant role in the development of the Nushagak River King
Salmon Action Plan, working with user groups and the Department
to establish regulatory language aimed at increasing king salmon
populations. He emphasized the importance of the species not
only to commercial fishing but also to subsistence users and the
sport industry. He also contributed to the creation of the
Kvichak Special Harvest Area, which addressed the absence of a
mechanism for harvesting sockeye in the Kvichak River when
Naknek sockeye forecasts were low. Additionally, as chair of
the Herring Revitalization Committee, he led discussions aimed
at refining regulations and management strategies for
underutilized herring fisheries in Kodiak and Prince William
Sound, fostering market expansion and utilization efforts, some
of which have already shown positive results. He thanked that
committee for allowing his testimony and welcomed any questions.
10:17:06 AM
CHAIR STUTES after ascertaining that there were no committee
questions, opened public testimony to the confirmation hearing
of Tom Carpenter.
10:17:45 AM
KATIE HARMS, representing self, Gave public testimony regarding
the absence of coastal representation on the Board of Fisheries.
She advocated for candidates that are long-term residents of
communities in which fishing is the primary economic driver.
She commented that Mr. Carpenter is the only current Board of
Fisheries member who resides in a community that had fishing as
its main economic driver. She said there is lots of
representation from the Greater Anchorage area and this comes
with minimal understanding of marine sport, marine commercial,
marine subsistence, or marine personal-use, and the associated
gear types and target species.
MS. HARMS noted that this was the first time in 50 years that
there was not a Southeast Alaska member of the Board of
Fisheries for a full cycle. She remarked that previously from
1975 to 2023 there had been at least one Southeast board member.
She asked the committee to reconsider adding members to the
board that are from "fishing towns". She said that if there was
a Southeast member in the cue then consider moving them up in
the list. She said a couple of pertinent interview questions
for appointees could be whether they could describe how a slinky
pot works, the differences between a gillnet, seine, troll, and
trawl vessel, and lastly, whether they had ever touched a sea
cucumber.
10:20:51 AM
ROBERT MACK, representing self, Testified in support of Tom
Carpenters appointment to the Board of Fisheries. He said that
he has been commercial fishing for as long as he could remember
and grew up doing it with his family. He said that Mr.
Carpenter is fair and equitable for all user groups in fishing
communities. Whether this was sport, commercial, personal-use
or commercial.
10:22:05 AM
SAM MUTCH, representing self, Testified in support of Tom
Carpenters appointment to the Board of Fisheries. He said that
he has been attending Board of Fisheries meetings since 1988 and
for the last two years he had attended two different meetings
with Mr. Carpenter present. He said that Mr. Carpenter has
great attention to detail and can help recognize them when
making regulations. He said that Mr. Carpenter has also taken
time to work with user groups and help develop solutions to help
concerned users.
10:23:26 AM
BOB MURPHY, Executive Director, Concerned Area M Fishermen,
Testified in support of Tom Carpenters appointment to the Board
of Fisheries. He said that Concerned Area M Fishermen
represents around 105 commercial salmon fishermen who operate
near King Salmon. He said that the group is supportive of Mr.
Carpenters reappointment. He noted that Mr. Carpenter was
knowledgeable about subsistence, sport, commercial and personal-
use fisheries throughout the state. He noted that he is
approachable, experienced, and willing to listen to any user
group when making science-led decisions.
10:24:49 AM
GARY HOLLIER, representing self, Testified in support of Tom
Carpenters appointment to the Board of Fisheries. He said that
he has dealt with the Board of Fisheries for five decades,
typically regarding Cook Inlet issues. He said that he thinks
that a good member cannot come with a party line and looks at
the science and tries to find middle ground on tough issues. He
said that Cook Inlet meetings are highly contentious, and Mr.
Carpenter always strives for the middle ground. He said that
even while fighting COVID-19, Mr. Carpenter sought board
decisions that fostered the best interests for all user groups.
10:26:25 AM
DAN MACDONALD, representing self, Testified in support of Tom
Carpenters appointment to the Board of Fisheries. He said that
he has been a commercial fishing permit holder since 1979 and
when younger he was more active in fish politics and would
attend Board of Fisheries meetings. He said that when
previously dealing with a contentious issue, without Mr.
Carpenters efforts it is doubtful that a positive resolution
would have been received. He said that he has never met him
personally and while there have been Board of Fisheries members
over the years, but Mr. Carpenter stands out. He noted that he
was not objective, does not take sides, tries to get people
together, and was an excellent mediator.
10:28:46 AM
KIM LANDEEN, Co-Executive Director, Southeast Alaska Guides
Organization, said that the Southeast Alaska Guides Organization
(SEAGO) represents more than 300 charter fishing operations and
roughly half of the state's guided saltwater activity. She
talked about the benefits and scale of Southeast guiding
operations and has an interest in who sits on the Board of
Fisheries. She said that SEAGO has often found themselves on
opposite sides of allocation decisions but has found Mr.
Carpenter to be very approachable and responsive to concerns.
She said that a regional example would be Mr. Carpenters growing
understanding of the complexity of Southeast Alaska's king
salmon fishery and without a Southeast affiliated Board of
Fisheries member, he has shown knowledge in this fishery. She
said that while SEAGO may not always agree on his positions,
they appreciate his ability to explain different perspectives
and nuances of other user groups.
10:31:54 AM
CHAIR STUTES closed public testimony for Tom Carpenters
confirmation hearing.
10:32:04 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON said that he was ready to make the motion
if she was ready.
CHAIR STUTES said that she was receptive to the motion.
10:32:19 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON remarked that the House Special Committee
on Fisheries has reviewed the qualifications of the governor's
appointee, Thomas Carpenter to the Alaska Board of Fisheries,
and recommends that his name be forwarded to a joint session for
confirmation.
CHAIR STUTES reminded members that a signature on the report
does not reflect intent of any members to vote for or against
the appointee.
10:32:55 AM
The committee took an at-ease from 10:32 a.m. to 10:33 a.m.
10:36:22 AM
CHAIR STUTES announced that the next order of business would be
the confirmation hearings for Olivia Irwin to the Board of
Fisheries.
10:36:34 AM
OLIVIA HENAAYEE IRWIN, Appointee, as appointee, gave testimony
about the Board of Fisheries and her qualifications and interest
to the board. She noted that she comes from a long line of
fishermen and her family has deep roots along the Tanana River,
the Koyukuk River, and the Kobuk River Valley. Much of her
childhood was spent between her mother's home state of Missouri
and Alaska, returning to Alaska in the summers to participate in
Fish Camp. What initially seemed like Fish Camp was a profound
cultural experiencewhere she first learned to cut and prepare
fish, harvest properly, and develop a deep connection to the
practice.
MS. IRWIN remarked that she earned a bachelor's degree from
Pomona College in Claremont, California, and later returned to
Alaska to begin working in natural resources and private
nonprofits. Currently serving as the policy coordinator for the
Yukon River Drainage Fisheries Association, she feels honored to
be present today. She deeply appreciates the representatives
and staff she had the opportunity to meet in Juneau and, despite
hearings not being held in person at the time, found the trip to
be well worth it. Hailing from the interior, with ties to the
Tanana River, which feeds into the Yukon, she is motivated to
put her name forward for the Board of Fish to prevent the
decline of salmon across the state. With salmon populations
dwindling, she understands firsthand the hardships faced by
communities, particularly the reduction of commercial fishing
opportunities. Her goal is to contribute to decisions that
benefit all users statewide. Over time, she has built a broad
network of fishermen and policy specialists, and despite coming
from the interior, she remains deeply committed to understanding
the needs of users across Alaska.
MS. IRWIN noted that her journey began after attending a Board
of Fish meeting, where she quickly immersed herself in policy
creation. The accessibility of the process was eye-openingit
reinforced her belief that as a member of the public and a
stakeholder, recommendations to management were both possible
and necessary. Now, she hopes to continue promoting this
engagement in her role. Above all, she is dedicated to ensuring
sustainable salmon runs for future generations, safeguarding the
health of Alaska's fisheries for all users in perpetuity.
10:40:29 AM
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE noted that on Ms. Irwin's resume, she
stated that she wishes for decriminalization of subsistence
practices and asked for an elaboration.
MS. IRWIN responded that unfortunately there exists within
Alaska the inability for folks to feed themselves, urban or
rural. She said that often it is because stocks are in such
decline. She said that coming from an area with communities off
the road system then food would need to come in by boat or air.
She said that one of her priorities would uphold the subsistence
priority while considering other users.
10:42:05 AM
CHAIR STUTES remarked that she had listened to a podcast in
which she was a participant, The Northern Hunter. She said that
she had a few questions regarding the way commercial fishing and
fish hatcheries were characterized on the podcast. She said
that sustainability and the ethics of commercial fishing were
brought up and she was quite surprised by some of the comments.
She quoted the podcast and said that "commercial fishing is akin
to the fur trade or the extinction of the bison in the lower-48"
and "commercial fishing is about making a quick buck at the
expense of the resource." Chair Stutes said that this was not
the way that her constituents view commercial fishing and
fishing was generational, sustained and supports local families
and the way of life. She asked how she views commercial fishing
and its role in the state.
MS. IRWIN responded that she acknowledged the critical nature
and cultural impact to the fishing communities throughout the
state. She said that they are a user group and following
allocative criteria was necessary with science. She said that
commercial fishing supports food security in Alaska and intends
for Alaska to continue to feed themselves. When considering any
allocation, usually the state economy is favored and she would
ensure that while in deliberations, recognize those two
allocative criteria as well as the historical and cultural
importance of commercial fishing.
10:44:50 AM
REPRESENTATIVE HIMSCHOOT asked Ms. Irwin if she could talk about
the role of hatcheries in Alaska.
MS. IRWIN responded that as she understands hatcheries are to
help rebuild stocks and many salmon populations have been
decimated. The purpose was to increase opportunity for users.
REPRESENTATIVE HIMSCHOOT told her that it might be helpful to
learn about pink salmon hatchery cycles as well. She said that
her region is heavy commercial fishing, she asked what actions
she intended to take to support and ensure sustainability.
MS. IRWIN responded that until she is sitting at the board with
a proposal in front of her, she would not be able to say what
she would do as it would require interactions with user groups.
She said that at this time there is not a single answer to solve
the issue to ensure run sustainability. She noted that ensuring
runs of high abundance for future generations was imperative.
REPRESENTATIVE HIMSCHOOT said that she appreciates the
perspectives that she would bring to the board. Following up
with previous testimony and asked if she could differentiate
trollers, trawlers, seiners, and slinky pots and whether she has
interacted with this equipment.
MS. IRWIN responded that she had never touched a slinky pot or
sea cucumber. Furthermore, the other gear types were types that
she has never used. She said that seines are nets that are
"swoop in a circle" to catch fish closer to the beach. The gill
nets were further out where head of fish get caught. Then the
trollers were fishing vessels that hang more than one fishing
line. She said that she had a lot to learn about the various
gear types, but she has a network of support to help her learn.
10:49:05 AM
CHAIR STUTES asked what regions of the state she had
participated in fishery issues.
MS. IRWIN responded that she has engaged with fisheries issues
at the statewide level in the interior region. She had
participated in nonstate management as well and personally fish
on the "Kenai."
10:49:49 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCABE asked for her opinion and what was more
important, the resource or the stakeholder.
MS. IRWIN responded that this was difficult to answer since the
stakeholders were not unimportant, but her priority would be the
resource since it upholds the ability to provide opportunities
for Alaskans. She wanted to conserve and develop the resource
for Alaska and would focus on long-term sustainability.
10:51:36 AM
CHAIR STUTES asked whether she supported federal management of
salmon resources more than state management.
MS. IRWIN said that she would represent state interests and the
states perspectives of management. She said that the "checked
board" model does not work, and the state needs to come to a
place where management is clearer for user groups.
CHAIR STUTES said that if appointed to the board, whether she
would consider herself filling a subsistence seat.
MS IRWIN said that she would consider herself a "subsistence
sport seat".
10:52:31 AM
REPRESENTATIVE ELAM said that looking through her diverse list
of support and asked how she would plant to navigate the waters
of the varying groups.
MS. IRWIN responded that it would involve listening to the
stakeholders. She said that it would be assuming that she would
not have any more information than they would. She recognized
her limited knowledge in various fishing methods, and it was
important to listen to stakeholders that use these methods.
When it comes to a decision the board must follow regulations by
statute and the allocative criteria.
10:54:31 AM
CHAIR STUTES said that Alaska's hatchery program have been
argued by some to be a direct cause of the decline of interior
and Western Alaska salmon stocks, however the science does not
support these claims. She noted that ADF&G finds many hatchery
programs sustainable. She asks whether she had any opinions
regarding hatchery programs.
MS. IRWIN said that she believed that there are cumulative
impacts that harm fish populations on the Yukon River. She said
that there are cumulative impacts at play. She said that the
Board of Fisheries has a role in hatchery management and most of
those decisions she would leave to the legislature and the
Private Nonprofit Hatchery program to ensure they run as they
should.
10:56:04 AM
REPRESENTATIVE HIMSCHOOT said that there were some points of
interest on her resume, and it reminded her of a partnership.
She asked whether she had anyone help her prepare for engagement
in an Advisory Council (AC) or Board of Fisheries deliberations.
She asked whether she ever had an advantage of a class like
this.
MS. IRWIN said that she is here because of the support that has
been provided to her by mentors. She said that the University
of Alaska Fairbanks has partnered with the Tanana Chiefs
Conference to offer classes and help people prepare for fish
related deliberations. She said that she had the opportunity to
attend a couple of these classes. She said that she attended
this course prior to attending a Board of Fisheries.
10:58:25 AM
CHAIR STUTES asked when she moved back to Alaska.
MS. IRWIN remarked that she moved back to Alaska in 2020.
10:58:36 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCABE said that the classes were admirable, and
he took a speech class from "Professor Gary Stevens" when he was
younger. He wanted to speak about the hatcheries and last year
there was a bill, HB 169. He said that this allowed a return to
the "early way" of doing hatcheries in a five-gallon bucket
opposed to larger hatcheries. She asked whether she would favor
either method. He said that in discussions with the Knik Tribe,
they felt that it was a good bill.
MS. IRWIN responded that she would leave legislative bills to
the legislature and her role would be allocative. She said that
she would follow any statute. She said that she has not engaged
with stakeholders on this issue.
11:00:32 AM
CHAIR STUTES opened public testimony on the confirmation hearing
for Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
11:00:48 AM
GARY HOLLIER, Self, Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries. He said that Upper Cook Inlet has been
declared a federal disaster in the past years and the fishery
was in "dire straits". He said that it alarms him that Ms.
Irwin would represent subsistence and sportsman on the board.
He said that a good board member needs to come in with an open
mind and listen to all the science and facts. He said that in
2024 there was two test fish sites that caught 20,000 sockeye
salmon on the east side and killed no kings. He said that it is
a new and upcoming fishery, and he wished Ms. Irwin would be
supportive of supporting new methods to assist the historic
history of the Upper Cook Inlet fisheries. He said that he
hopes Ms. Irwin would look at the science.
11:02:39 AM
CRAIG THYTHLOOK, Fisheries Policy Director, Native Peoples
Action, Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the Board of
Fisheries. He is a lifelong resident of Bristol Bay, serves as
the Fisheries Policy Director for Native Peoples Action. His
family has long relied on the region's resources, and since the
early 2000s, he has managed his mother's drift fishing
operation. Native Peoples Action, a statewide, nonpartisan
organization, works to protect and restore Alaska Native rights
to hunt, fish, harvest, and steward their homelands for future
abundance. The organization strongly supports Olivia Irwin's
appointment to the Alaska Board of Fisheries. Through her
leadership rolesincluding Co-Chair of FNG, policy coordinator
for the Yukon Drainage Fishermen's Association, and nomination
to the Eastern Interior Regional Advisory Councilshe has
demonstrated a collaborative approach and the ability to work
with commercial fishermen, subsistence users, and personal-use
harvesters. Her constructive, solution-driven engagement makes
her an ideal candidate. Native Peoples Action believes Irwin's
appointment will bring fresh perspectives and innovative
problem-solving, ensuring the long-term health and prosperity of
Alaska's fisheries. The organization appreciates the
consideration of its recommendation and is confident she will be
a tremendous asset to the Board of Fisheries.
11:05:18 AM
GRACY KIRKEY, representing self, Testified in support of Olivia
Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. She opined that Olivia is fair
and honest, treating all user groups with respect. She
thoroughly researches issues, takes the necessary time to make
informed decisions, and is extremely generous with her efforts.
She values public testimony and truly listens, ensuring every
voice is considered. Olivia does not shy away from answering or
asking difficult questions. Alaskans would experience a great
loss if Olivia were not appointed to the Board of Fisheries.
11:06:06 AM
MATTHEW LOHRSTORFER, representing self, Testified in support of
Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He was a Bristol-based
permit holder for many years and is a personal-use fisherman.
He strongly supports the appointment of Olivia Irwin to the
Board of Fisheries. Having participated in meetings with
Olivia, Matthew has observed her ability to facilitate
discussions that allow all sides to be heard, as well as her
exceptional critical thinking skills. Her approach is
thoughtful, constructive, and inclusive. Matthew believes
Olivia's appointment would be a tremendous asset, bringing fresh
perspectives and leadership as a young Native leader. He
appreciates the opportunity to share his support and thanks the
Board for considering his testimony.
11:06:45 AM
DONALD STILES, representing self, Testified in support of Olivia
Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He grew up as a commercial and
subsistence fisherman on the Yukon River and now fished for red
king crab. He believed that she would be the "best deployment"
that is currently available.
11:07:50 AM
JOEL JACKSON, President, Organized Village of Kake, Testified in
support of Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He said that
she was well informed and would make a good addition to the
Board of Fisheries.
11:08:48 AM
ROCHELLE ADAMS, representing self, Testified in support of
Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. Her people have fished
along the Yukon River since time immemorial. She is calling in
to voice strong support for Olivia Irwin's appointment to the
Board of Fisheries, uplifting the voices of many in her region
who share this sentiment. Olivia is an exceptional candidate,
highly knowledgeable in fisheries policies and cultural
traditions. She is approachable and capable of working
effectively with all user groups. Her passion, drive, and deep
love for fisheries make her stand out. Rochelle has spent
significant time with Olivia in fisheries management spaces,
testifying alongside her and discussing critical issues.
However, the most meaningful time has been at culture camp along
the river, witnessing Olivia's deep understanding of traditions
and ways of life, as well as the care and respect with which she
approaches them. Strong representation from the interior of
Alaska and the Yukon River drainage is crucial, and Olivia
brings exactly that. Rochelle firmly believes Olivia would be
an invaluable addition to the Board of Fisheries.
11:10:53 AM
SHANNON MARTIN, Executive Director, Kenai River Sportfishing
Association, Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the Board
of Fisheries. She represents Kenai River Sportfishing
Association (KRSA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to ensuring
the sustainability of the Kenai River and Alaska's fish
resources. Established in 1984, KRSA is Alaska's leading sport
fishing advocacy group, committed to supporting fishing
opportunities and access. KRSA strongly supports the
appointment of Olivia Irwin to the Alaska Board of Fisheries.
Olivia is well-spoken and familiar to the organization through
her service on the Minto-Nenana Fish and Game Advisory
Committee. In that role, she gained valuable experience working
closely with Board of Fisheries members, stakeholders from all
user groups, and staff from the Alaska Department of Fish and
Game. KRSA considers firsthand knowledge and familiarity with
the Board of Fisheries process essential qualifications for any
board member. Through several interviews with KRSA, Olivia has
demonstrated a deep commitment to the sustainable management of
Alaska's fisheries and alignment with KRSA's core priority
ensuring more fish in Alaska's rivers. The organization
respectfully urges confirmation of her appointment to the Alaska
Board of Fisheries.
11:12:29 AM
EVA BURK, Science and Policy Lead, Yukon River Intertribal Fish
Commission, Testified in support of Olivia Irwin to the Board of
Fisheries. Testifying on behalf of the Yukon River Inter-Tribal
Fish Commission, which represents 44 members along the Yukon
River working toward long-term sustainability for future
generations. The commission unanimously supports the
appointment of Olivia Hannah Irwin to the Alaska Board of
Fisheries and urges confirmation of her appointment. The
commission represents a diverse group of users, including
commercial, subsistence, and personal-use fishermen. Olivia is
a great communicator and highly approachable. One of her most
valuable qualities is her engagement in the fisheries process,
including her leadership within the Minto-Nenana Advisory
Committee. She is also an exceptional researcher when it comes
to policy and regulation. Most importantly, she will help the
public and stakeholders navigate the Board of Fisheries process,
making it more accessible and constructive. Having someone on
the Board of Fisheries who can bridge communication between
different user groups and ensure all perspectives are considered
is essential. Olivia has consistently demonstrated this
ability, and her appointment would be a tremendous asset.
11:14:17 AM
PHIL DOHERTY, Executive Director, Southeast Alaska Seiners
Association, Testified regarding concerns of the absence of a
Southeast Alaska affiliated Board of Fisheries member.
testifying as the Director of the Southeast Alaska Seiners
Association. He has extensive experience in fisheries, having
served as an area management biologist for commercial fisheries
for nearly 30 years, followed by 15 years as Executive Director
of the Southeast Dive Association. While not advocating for any
specific candidate, Phil wishes to highlight a significant
issue: for the first time in his 50 years of involvement in
Alaska's fisheries, there is no representation from Southeast
Alaska on the Board of Fisheries. Southeast Alaska hosts one of
the most diverse and robust fisheries in the state, encompassing
salmon fisheries, hatchery programs, sport, and charitable
fisheries, groundfish, shellfish, herring, and more. Given the
complexity and importance of these fisheries, representation
from Southeast Alaska on the board is crucial. Phil urges the
committee and the state to ensure that in future appointments, a
candidate from Southeast Alaska is considered, so that the
region's interests and expertise are properly represented on the
Board of Fisheries.
11:16:16 AM
KELSI IVANOFF, representing self, Testified in support of Olivia
Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. The speaker is testifying on
their own behalf while noting their current role with Native
Peoples Action and their positions on the Southern Norton Sound
Advisory Committee and the Seward Peninsula Regional Advisory
Council (RAC). Through their interactions and experiences with
Olivia Irwin, they have found her to be a strong representative
of her people. She effectively communicates and advocates for
fairness, ensuring all voices are heard. She expressed
confidence in Olivia's dedication and ability to fight for
equitable solutions, emphasizing that her leadership is rooted
in the right values. They appreciate the opportunity to testify
in support of her and extend their gratitude.
11:17:34 AM
AL BARRETTE, representing self, Testified in support of Olivia
Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. While he is a member of the
Board of Game, he clarifies that his views are his own and do
not represent the board. As an Alaskan and a user of wild fish
resources, he strongly supports the appointment of Olivia Irwin
to the Board of Fisheries. He first met Olivia several years
ago when she was part of a wood bison reintroduction team at
Minto Flats State Refuge. Despite contention surrounding the
plan, Olivia played a key role in developing compromise
solutions to move the project forward. He later attended
meetings with her focused on addressing historically low returns
of Yukon Chinook and chum salmon. Additionally, he witnessed
her leadership as Co-Chair of the Minto-Nenana AC Advisory
Committee, where she ran meetings efficiently and with
consideration for all attendees. Olivia is well-versed in
fisheries policies, thoroughly understands processes, and
consistently brings fresh, innovative ideas to discussions. Al
believes her age is an asset, as her generation will be most
affected by current board decisions. She has demonstrated the
ability to study, research, and analyze issues while listening
to multiple perspectives. Her skill in synthesizing this
information and presenting well-rounded solutions is refreshing.
Al urges support for Olivia's confirmation to the Board of
Fisheries, emphasizing that her youthfulness, knowledge of the
process, and strong communication skills will bring valuable new
perspectives to the board.
11:19:39 AM
VIRGIL UMPHENOUR, representing self, Testified in support of
Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries. He is a resident of
North Pole, Alaska and testifying on his own behalf. He has
served three terms on the Board of Fisheries and is the longest-
serving member of the Pacific Salmon Commission. He remains
active as a member of the Fairbanks Fish and Game Advisory
Committee. In the committee's packet, there is a letter from
the Fairbanks Fishing Advisory Committee supporting Olivia
Irwin. Virgil has known members of Olivia's family for over 50
years, as they live in Nenana. He highlighted the devastating
reality faced by residents of the Upper Yukon River, who have
been unable to subsistence fish for any species of salmon for
the past five years. He recently returned from an eight-day
Yukon River Panel meeting in Dawson, where the outlook remained
bleak. The long-term monitored systems in the state have seen
alarming declinessummer chum salmon returns are down to just 4%
of the long-term average, and Chinook salmon are at only 20% of
their historical numbers. Given these dire circumstances,
Virgil and many others strongly support Olivia Irwin's
appointment to the Board of Fisheries. He shares this
information to ensure that the severity of the Yukon River
crisis is understood, reinforcing the urgent need for leadership
that can effectively address these challenges.
11:21:48 AM
CHAIR STUTES closed public testimony on the Confirmation hearing
of Olivia Irwin to the Board of Fisheries.
11:22:05 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON remarked that the House Special Committee
on Fisheries has reviewed the qualifications of the governor's
appointee, Olivia Irwin to the Alaska Board of Fisheries, and
recommends that his name be forwarded to a joint session for
confirmation.
11:22:35 AM
The committee took an at-ease from 11:22 a.m. to 11:24 a.m.
HB 199-AK COMMERCIAL FISHING & AG BANK; LOANS
[Includes discussion of SB 156.]
11:24:37 AM
CHAIR STUTES announced that the final order of business would be
HOUSE BILL NO. 199, "An Act relating to the Department of
Commerce, Community, and Economic Development; relating to the
Alaska Commercial Fishing and Agriculture Bank; relating to
certain loans made by the Alaska Commercial Fishing and
Agriculture Bank; and providing for an effective date."
11:25:55 AM
Kyle Neumann, staff, Representative Louise Stutes, presented HB
199, sponsored by the House Special Committee on Fisheries at
the request of the Joint Legislative Taskforce Evaluating
Alaska's Seafood Industry. He explained that the proposed bill
would provide a one-time temporary investment of approximately
$3.7 million of state money to bolster Alaska's Commercial
Fishing and Agriculture Bank (CFAB). This would allow CFAB to
refinance existing loans and potentially new loans at a reduced
interest rate of 5.25 percent, the same rate currently offered
by the commercial fishing revolving loan fund. He noted that HB
199 is a companion bill to SB 156.
MR. NEUMANN remarked that CFAB was established by the
legislature in 1978 through AS 44.81 and with this statute the
state granted CFAB unique authority to lien limited entry
permits in addition to providing loans specifically for
commercial fishing operations. He noted that CFAB has over 700
members that represent 80 fishing communities and provides
critical financing for fishermen across the state, especially in
difficult financial times. He noted that it was known that the
commercial industry was currently facing some challenges. He
rd
noted that the legislature addressed these challenges in the 33
Alaska State Legislature in 2024 with the passage of HB 273. HB
273 made changes to the states commercial fishing revolving loan
fund that included temporarily fixing interest rates at 5.25
percent. He said that thus far HB 273 has been successful but
had one unintended consequence, unable to match the fixed
interest rates, CFAB is losing significant new loan volume to
the commercial fishing revolving loan fund. He said that the
problem has been exacerbated by costs associated with current
fishing operations which have made it harder for borrowers to
make payments on their existing loans. He said that CFAB has
already expended many tools to avoid defaults, including revised
payment plans and low loan restructuring for borrowers.
MR. NEUMANN noted that in the interests of the seafood industry
and in order to keep CFAB operational, the Joint Legislative
Taskforce Evaluating Alaska's Seafood Industry recommended that
the state enact policy to temporarily lower CFAB interest rates.
He noted that HB 199 would provide a one-time $3.7 million
investment to CFAB from a separate and now defunct capstone
avionics revolving loan fund. He said that the investment would
be through the purchase of Class C non-voting shares, the same
vehicle that gave $32 million in start-up capital to CFAB in
1979 which was repaid by 1990. The investment provided with HB
199 would only be used to refinance or issue new low-interest
rate loans until the revolving loan fund rates return to normal
in two years, at this time CFAB would return any unused funds.
He emphasized that CFAB would repay the state in full within 20
years by purchasing back stock from the state.
11:30:45 AM
REPRESENTATIVE KOPP asked Mr. Neumann whether the total
appropriation was coming from the capstone avionics revolving
loan fund was $3.7 million.
MR. NEUMANN responded that it was roughly $3.7 million and
sitting in a defunct capstone avionics revolving loan fund which
had a sunset date in 2021 and seemed to have been "forgotten
about". He noted that it was not written in statute that the
remaining funds would go back in the state general fund. He
said that prior reappropriation attempts have been unsuccessful.
REPRESENTATIVE KOPP commented that this is a small amount of
money for a significant industry that needs it. He said that it
would help the few fishermen that need it.
11:32:19 AM
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE asked whether there was a reason that there
was no fiscal note showing the fund transfer and whether he
could provide some clarification to the commercial fishing
revolving loan fund.
MR. NEUMANN said that there is a fiscal note, but it is a zero
fiscal note since HB 199 was pending appropriations and it does
not specifically say that if HB 199 it would not move the money
but "subject to appropriation the department shall issues shares
by CFAB using an amount of money equal to amount sitting in fund
at moment."
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE asked whether this would mean that the $3.7
million would be required to be included in the operating or
capital budget.
MR. NEUMAN responded that he was not sure.
CHAIR STUTES noted that it would be subject to appropriation in
that amount, but the bill would not transfer the funds.
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE said that the only other way the money
would be transferred is through an appropriation bill and asked
for clarification.
11:34:30 AM
REPRESENTATIVE KOPP said that he was not sure whether it needed
a bill, but this bill gives the state permission to do this
administratively. He said that they could not move those unused
funds unless permission was given by the legislature. He said
that he believed it was about permission.
CHAIR STUTES reiterated that this bill would not transfer the
funds.
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE said that she would prefer legislative
legal to clarify the way that the bill was worded. She said
that the way it was worded suggests appropriation and as far as
her understanding was, the state would need an appropriation
mechanism in order to transfer. She said she was in support of
the bill but wanted to understand the mechanics of how to make
this happen and prevent any unnecessary oversight. She said
that making a change for a fund, there should be a "paper
trail".
CHAIR STUTES said that if HB 199 was approved then it needs to
be in the operating budget.
11:36:17 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MCCABE said that he did not disagree with
Representative Vance and a fiscal note would be and there should
be one. He said that the fact that it says "avionics" on the
fund gives him pause. He understood that the Department of
Natural Resources (DNR) needed a new airplane for firefighting
operations. He reiterated that a fiscal note should be
included.
CHAIR STUTES said that legislative legal can be consulted about
these technicalities and there was no intent to move the bill
today. She reiterated what Mr. Neumann said and that HB 199
would not technically transfer money.
11:37:24 AM
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE asked whether there was any history
information available pertaining to the capstone avionics
revolving loan fund.
MR. NEUMANN said that it is a fund that was created several
years ago, and the program has already passed the sunset date.
Therefore, the program does not exist any longer and the funds
were not accessible for any loan that the program had provided.
He said the unused funds were not returned to the general fund
and future reallocation attempts have been unsuccessful. He
reiterated that the program passed the sunset date already.
11:39:04 AM
REPRESENTATIVE VANCE said that on Page 1 and 2 the bill
discusses repaying the loan after 20 years but further down the
bill on Line 10 the bill suggests a fixed term of 15 years. She
asked whether there was a reason for this discrepancy.
MR. NEUMANN clarified that 20 years is the period that CFAB
would repurchase the shares from the state. The reference to 15
years is with reference to the loan duration of the loans that
CFAB can provide to borrowers using these state funds.
11:40:31 AM
CHAIR STUTES announced that the committee would hear invited
testimony.
11:40:57 AM
SHARON LECHNER, President, Alaska Commercial Fishing and
Agriculture Bank, Gave invited testimony in support of HB 199.
She noted that CFAB was formed by the state in the late 1970s
by the governing statute AS 44.81 and it limits lending
activities in support of traditionally underserved industries
such as commercial fishing and timber. She said that AS 44.81
also deems CFAB to be formed for a public purpose. She noted
that CFAB pays federal taxes and cannot issue tax exempt bonds.
She said that borrowers need to be Alaska residents. Currently,
about 90 percent of CFAB loans are for commercial fishing and
there was heavy investment into this industry. She said that
unlike traditional lenders, they work for their borrowers. In
the last 20 plus years, CFAB has not foreclosed on a single
borrower. She said that the public purpose mission is evident
by their response to the recent market downturn, now many
fishermen cannot get access to working capital loans from
processors and in response, CFAB introduced a seasonal loan
program that would allow access to working capital to help
borrowers avoid high interest credit card borrowing. She said
that CFAB supports the commercial fishing revolving loan fund,
but it has consequences for CFAB. She noted that existing loans
are moving over, the collateral is being eroded, and no new
applications were directed to CFAB. She said that HB 199 would
allow matched interest rates with the commercial fishing
revolving loan fund. She said that CFAB has 650 Alaska resident
members and over 300 borrowers living in almost every Alaska
community. Support for the bill would expand the financial
lifeline for several hundred additional Alaska fishermen, their
families, and their communities. She urged support for the
bill.
11:44:13 AM
CHAIR STUTES opened public testimony on HB 199, after
ascertaining that nobody wished to testify, closed public
testimony on HB 199.
11:44:37 AM
REPRESENTATIVE KOPP reiterated that he appreciates the intent of
the bill and in the interest of small businesses and helping
them, this was a good direction.
11:45:20 AM
CHAIR STUTES announced that HB 199 was held over.
11:45:29 AM
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the committee, the House
Special Committee on Fisheries meeting was adjourned at 11:45
a.m.