What we do

The Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC) is an interstate agency that conserves, develops, and manages Pacific Ocean fishery resources. Its 6 member states include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.  

PSMFC works collaboratively with the fishing industry—including fishery managers, commercial and recreational fishermen, and seafood processors. It also teams up with government agencies involved with marine fisheries management, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Together they strive to make fishing resources sustainable for decades to come.

PSMFC was established in 1947 by a compact—an agreement among states that was ratified by Congress. Each state in the compact is represented by 3 commissioners.

Mission

“…To promote the better utilization of fisheries – marine, shell, and anadromous, which are of mutual concern, and to develop a joint program of protection and prevention of physical waste of such fisheries in all of those areas of the Pacific Ocean over which the compacting states jointly or separately now have or may hereafter acquire jurisdiction.”

—PSMFC governing compact, approved by Congress July 24, 1947

How PSMFC Works

PSMFC has no regulatory or management authority.  It promotes policies and mobilizes action through the following activities:

Programs for conservation & resource management 

Programs inform those with scientific or economic interests in the field. They also educate the general public on responsible fishing practices.

Research

PSMFC coordinates studies related to interstate fisheries. 

It monitors fishing activities and collects data. It provides data on salmon, steelhead, and other marine fish to the fishing industry.

Funds disbursement

PSMFC distributes funds—such as disaster aid—from federal and state agencies and other sources.

Collaboration with management councils

PSMFC participates as a non-voting member of the Pacific Fishery Management Council and the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. It addresses issues that fall outside state or regional management council jurisdiction.

Discussion & consensus-building

PSMFC helps Pacific states work collectively to address mutual concerns. It seeks public input on decisions that shape the fishing industry. It builds coast-wide consensus, in cooperation with state and federal authorities.

Funding sources

PSMFC activities are funded by the following sources:

  • federal grants
  • special contracts
  • dues from member states

PSMFC regularly serves as a primary contractor on grants, projects, and contracts for states and other organizations. Agencies select PSMFC because of its low overhead and proven management ability. It provides administrative support for payroll, procurement, and accounting operations, as well as travel arrangements and contract monitoring.