U.S. fishermen’s association Seafood Harvesters of America (SHA) on Monday added two members to its organization: the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association and the Midwater Trawlers Cooperative (U.S. West Coast and Alaska).
The growing organization lobbies Congress to protect commercial fishing interests, creates accountability in fisheries management and speaks out on issues that impact the U.S. commercial fishing industry.
“These organizations demonstrate a dedication to the broader fishing community as well as the resources upon which they depend,” said Chris Brown, SHA chairman and Rhode Island-based fisherman. “The addition of these powerhouse associations reflects the important mission we have as a voice for commercial fishermen in our nation’s capital, as well as the results we have delivered since our founding last year. With an even broader coalition, the Harvesters will continue to ensure commercial fishermen can provide delicious and sustainable seafood to millions of American families.”
The Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association is a member organization that accepts and supports the interdependence of species conservation and the collective economic interests of its 1,700 members.
“The Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association is extremely excited about joining the Seafood Harvesters of America,” said Beth Casoni, executive director. “The Association has been following the many successes of the Harvesters and looks forward to joining the leadership to help keep commercial fishermen here in Massachusetts and across the nation fishing for years to come.”
The Midwater Trawlers Cooperative is a nonprofit industry trade association with members along the West Coast and throughout the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska .
“The Harvesters has an excellent track record and is a proven advocate for commercial fishermen across the country,” said Executive Director Heather Mann. “The Midwater Trawlers Cooperative looks forward to working with the Harvesters to promote accountable, thriving commercial fisheries along the Pacific Coast and nationwide far into the future.”
Seafood Harvesters of America represents 16 commercial fishing organizations from Alaska to the Gulf of Mexico north to New England.
