Alaska’s Department of Fish and Game Commissioner, Doug Vincent-Lang, is continuing to back the idea of onshore finfish farming for species such as trout and Arctic char, despite strong opposition from the state’s commercial fishing industry and the apparent collapse of supporting legislation.
Speaking at ComFish, Alaska’s commercial fisheries trade show, Vincent-Lang reinforced his support for HB 111, a bill introduced in February by Governor Mike Dunleavy to lift Alaska’s longstanding ban on finfish farming. The proposed change would allow onshore farming of selected species but keep the prohibition on salmon farming in place.
The bill has met near-universal opposition from industry stakeholders, tribal councils, and local representatives. During an April 10 House Fisheries Committee hearing, no public or written testimonies supported the measure. Concerns focus on potential market competition with wild fisheries, reputational risks to the Alaska wild brand, and the long-term implications of weakening the state’s ban.
Despite the legislative stall, Vincent-Lang framed the move as a business opportunity for Alaskan entrepreneurs to compete with imported farmed fish already present in local stores. He cited a Yukon-based farm, Icy Waters, as an example of a successful Arctic char operation supplying restaurants and grocers.
The bill has not advanced beyond its initial hearing and, according to House Fisheries Chair Rep. Louise Stutes, is unlikely to move forward. Still, the Commissioner has urged continued discussion on diversifying Alaska’s seafood economy.