NOAA directed to expand bycatch reduction research

What does this do?

This bill tells NOAA to expand research on bycatch, which is the unintended catching of fish and other marine life during commercial fishing. It calls for studies on salmon migration, faster genetic testing of accidentally caught salmon, and research on how trawl gear affects the ocean floor. It also directs NOAA to build a flume tank testing facility and creates a donation-supported fund to help fishermen buy or upgrade less harmful gear.

Who does it affect?

Commercial fishermen, fishing vessel operators, Alaska Native communities, researchers, and fishery managers are most directly affected. The bill focuses on fishing activity in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska.

Why does it matter?

Bycatch can harm fish populations and ocean habitats that commercial fisheries depend on. This bill would change how federal agencies study and respond to those unintended catches.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Donation-funded grant program
• Helps fishermen buy or upgrade gear