The Alaska Seafood Processors Association has announced it is allowing a collective of major Alaska salmon processors applying to join the certificate it holds with the Marine Stewardship Council, but they will have to cough up 3 percent of the wholesale price for this year’s product.

Rob Zuanich, ASPA’s executive director, has been firm about denying the processors’ applications for the past two months. When asked by SeafoodSource what changed his mind, he said, “Deference to Governor Walker.” Alaska Gov. Bill Walker recently issued a plea for ASPA and the processor applicants to work out their differences for the overall good of the industry and its impact on Alaska’s economy.

“This decision reinforces our support for the MSC standards and defers to Alaska Governor Walker’s request while also recognizing the resulting economic consequences,” Zuanich wrote in a statement yesterday announcing the move.

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