The State of California has requested a Federal Fishery Disaster Declaration to support the salmon fishing industry as it faces a closure for the 2023 salmon season. This action follows projections that indicate California’s Chinook salmon abundance is at historic lows.

The state submitted the request to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo immediately after the Pacific Fishery Management Council recommended a full closure of California’s commercial and recreational ocean salmon season – a recommendation the National Marine Fisheries Service is expected to implement next month.

If approved, the Federal Fishery Disaster Declaration would begin the process of providing needed relief to fishing communities financially impacted by a closure.

To help qualify for the Disaster Declaration, the state is asking businesses that would be affected by the 2023 salmon season closure to complete a EIDL form regarding the loss. 

The form must be completed and emailed to the County Office of Emergency Services by Thursday, July 13, 2023 to help qualify. 

Complete the EIDL Form Here

Fisheries Disaster Assistance - More Information from NOAA

State of California Information Regarding Disaster Declaration Request