Alaskans Demand Trawling Reform | Anchorage News

Alaskans are rallying behind a push to ban trawling in the pollock fishery, fueled by a shocking poll showing overwhelming public support — and politicians are taking notice. Trawlers are catching tens of thousands of salmon annually, most of which are discarded, threatening already struggling runs vital to Indigenous communities. While the industry blames climate change and argues bycatch is minimal, critics say it’s a critical issue made worse by warming waters. Online activism, especially through the “STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch” group, has amplified pressure, forcing Senator Dan Sullivan and Rep. Mary Peltola to weigh in — one pushing for research and standards, the other for stricter bycatch limits and restricted bottom trawling. But industry lobbying and political realities make sweeping bans unlikely, leaving the debate focused on regulation — and whether Alaska can balance conservation with its economic lifeline. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/da580345a9e05c94