A new state matching grant program announced Dec. 23 earmarks $1 million to salmon harvesters and tendering vessels for capital investment to improve salmon quality.
The pilot grant program, a continuation of the state's fisheries revitalization strategy, will offer the federal funds as grants on a first-come, first-served basis, said Jennifer Payne, spokeswoman for the state Department of Commerce.
"Grant applications will be approved as they come in, with a turn around time of two weeks to a month," Payne said. "This is federal money, and it is specific to small operators, rather than large commercial processors. It's aimed at the smaller guys, the mom and pop types."
Commerce Commissioner Bill Noll echoed those words, saying the improvements in quality will ultimately result in a larger market share.
"There is a growing worldwide awareness that Alaska's salmon has superior health benefits, taste and quality," Noll said. "If Alaskans are able to ensure a consistent, top-notch product, we will continue to grow our domestic and international salmon sales."
Alan Austerman, fisheries advisor to Gov. Frank Murkowski, quoted Department of Fish and Game statistics that showed the ex-vessel value of salmon in Alaska increased from $162.5 million in 2002 to $272.3 million in 2004. "That's a 67 percent increase in a short two years," Austerman said. "This program is a way for us to build on that success."
Eligible projects include: freezers, coolers, ice machines, chutes and accessories, hold insulation and related repairs, refrigerated sea water systems, slush bags, generators or generator upgrades related to quality improvement equipment, quality handling equipment and/or the fabrication of quality handling equipment, and insulated totes for use on the vessel.
This is a matching grant program with reimbursements made on a dollar-for-dollar basis not to exceed $25,000. The department will accept applications Jan. 1 through May 1.
For an application guide and form, or to learn more about the program, visit the department's Web site at www.commerce.state.ak.us or call Debbie McBride at (907) 465-2023.
Applicants interested in obtaining financing for their portion of the project are encouraged to contact the Department of Commerce's Division of Investments, which offers low-interest loans under its product quality improvement program. Current interest rates are approximately 5 percent. More information can be obtained on the Web at www.commerce.state.ak.us/investments/pqi.cfml. Calls originating in Alaska are toll free at 1-800-478-5626.
Margaret Bauman can be reached at margie.bauman@alaskajournal.com
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