This is why the integration of fisheries science with the other functions of NOAA is so important. Oceanographic, climatic and other environmental changes affect fish stocks. The well-known El Nino climatic phenomenon of the Pacific has a profound effect of fish stocks and behavior. The demise of the northern cod stock was as much the product of oceanographic changes as fishing pressure. The plain fact is that our industry and the nation's sports fishermen have the capabilities to fish out our nation's fish resources.
Controls are necessary.
We believe it's an essential role of government to provide them, not for the sake of the commercial seafood industry, but for the benefits contributed to the food supply, the economy and general quality of life. The seafood organization representative also pointed out that dollar for dollar, congressional appropriations for fishery management appears to be a good investment. The Institute provides government relations, technical, educational and public relations services in support of industry goals and objectives.