President Obama Protects Bristol Bay

December 16, 2014 | 1:19 | Public Domain

Today the President took action to protect one of America's greatest natural treasures by signing a Presidential Memorandum to protect Bristol Bay. One of Alaska's most powerful economic engines, and home to one of the world's largest wild salmon runs, Bristol Bay has helped sustain Alaska Native communities for centuries. And every year, the region provides 40 percent of America’s wild-caught seafood, supporting $2 billion in commercial fishing. These waters support good jobs in sportfishing and tourism, too. With migratory birds, sea otters, whales, and seals, Bristol Bay is truly a place unlike any other. Simply put, these waters are too special and too valuable to auction off to the highest bidder.  They belong to all of us – and to future generations.  That’s why ordinary Alaskans have fought for decades to protect Bristol Bay. Because of their hard work – and because of the action the President took today – this extraordinary resource will be there for our children and our children’s children to enjoy tomorrow.