Jamie Goen, the executive director of the trade group Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers (ABSC) since 2018, has been appointed to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council to replace the Washington seat previously held by the deceased Kenny Down. The US Secretary of Commerce made the announcement on August 21.
Goen will be one of two voting NPFMC members from the State of Washington; the other is held by recently reappointed Anne Vanderhoeven, a Seattle-based trawl lobbyist.
An industry site from the UK was the first to break the news and it was not immediately posted on the NOAA news releases feed.
Below is a write-up from Oliver McBride of International Fishing News:
In a significant development for the Alaska Bering Sea crab industry, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce has announced the appointment of Jamie Goen, a dedicated advocate from the Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers (ABSC), to the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC).
Goen will fill the vacant Washington state seat for the remainder of the term, following the unexpected passing of former member Kenny Down. This appointment marks a two-year term where Goen is expected to continue the work of ensuring fair and sustainable fisheries management.
Goen’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm from the crab fishing community, which has long valued her commitment to the industry. “Congratulations, Jamie, we have no doubt you will carry on Kenny’s legacy to be a fair and just voice in the Council process for crab, fishermen across the board, Alaska communities, and the environment,” said a representative from the Crabbers organisation. Goen’s role on the Council will be crucial during what many consider strenuous times for the industry.
Goen’s appointment is seen as a positive step for the future of the industry, as she brings both passion and expertise to the Council during a challenging period for Alaska’s crabbers. Her leadership will be critical in navigating the complex issues facing the fishery and ensuring that it remains a model of sustainable and responsible fishing for years to come.
"I think it's been over 40 years since a crab industry rep has been on the Council," Goen shared.
More about Jamie Goen
Goen started her career traveling the world on oceanographic vessels running scientific equipment.
She has a master’s degree from the University of Washington in marine policy with a focus on using fishermen’s knowledge in management. She worked briefly for the North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners’ Association before working as the congressional affairs liaison to the head of NOAA. While at NOAA for 15 years, she worked on fishing quota programs, including as the lead on implementation of the Trawl Rationalization Program. She also worked in New England on the Atlantic Sea Scallop Quota Program.
Prior to joining ABSC, Goen worked with the International Pacific Halibut Commission, overseeing its fisheries data collection programs.
“Throughout my career, I have been drawn to stakeholders and their role in managing resources, helping them navigate the process and encouraging their voice,” Goen has frequently said.
