What you need to know: Governor Newsom and other West Coast governors are requesting a federal fishery disaster to support communities reliant on the industry following the worst albacore fishery season in over 30 years.

SACRAMENTO - On Dec 24, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a request for a federal fishery disaster declaration to support the albacore fishing industry. Last year marked the worst season for the West Coast North Pacific pole and troll albacore fishery in over 30 years. The California albacore fishery declined 71% in volume and 65% in value.

Recognizing the importance of albacore to California’s commercial fisheries, Governor Newsom joined the governors of Washington and Oregon and submitted the request to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. If approved, the federal fishery disaster declaration would begin the process of providing needed relief to fishing communities financially impacted by the decline in albacore fishing.

To the California communities that rely on albacore fishing: we’re working to get you the relief you need. A federal fishery disaster will help provide relief to an industry that is an essential component of the West Coast economy and provides significant benefits to countless coastal communities. - Governor Gavin Newsom

Earlier this year, the Newsom Administration requested a federal fishery disaster ahead of the closure of the ocean salmon fishing season. Previous federal fishery disaster declarations have been vital in providing relief to communities impacted by poor fishing seasons.