Assistance Now Being Distributed to Oregon's Fisheries

Oregon's Governor announces relief for Oregon's salmon fisheries.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - Applications for qualified fishers to receive state financial assistance are now being distributed to more than 900 troll salmon permit holders along the Oregon coast.

This is part of an effort to assist those impacted by restrictions on this summer's salmon harvest. Governor Kulongoski directed $500,000 of his Strategic Reserve to help assist Oregon's commercial troll salmon fleet.

"I am proud of the state agencies who have responded so aggressively to help fishers displaced by the federal closure," said Governor Kulongoski. "While I know this won't solve all of the financial difficulties, I hope this will provide some assistance to fishers and their families as we continue to secure more permanent federal aid."

The Oregon Department of Agriculture is the lead agency for processing applications and determining payments, and is planning to distribute funds to fishers by mid-August.

Fishers can expect to receive applications in the mail over the next week. Oregon troll salmon permit holders who do not receive applications by July 19th can obtain one by contacting the Oregon Salmon Commission at (541) 994-2647.

Completed applications returned to ODA must be postmarked no later than July 28, 2006.

The funds are targeted to help meet expenses that have been or will be incurred by individual troll salmon fishers this year. Eligible expenses include such items as license fees, moorage fees, boat loan payments, boat insurance, safety equipment, and other related items. The amount of money individually received by eligible fishers will depend on the number of qualified applicants as well as the amount of expenses submitted through the applications.

ODA, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), and the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) have worked with the Oregon Salmon Commission, the Oregon Coastal Zone Management Association (OCZMA), and others to establish eligibility criteria for distribution of the state funds.