NOAA Fisheries has announced an additional $13 million in fisheries assistance funding to Oregon under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
This comes in the wake of a first round of CARES (Coronavirus Relief Law) funds to Oregon, with payments totaling some $18 million to marine-related and coastal fishery businesses, including $2.5 million provided by the state of Oregon.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will continue to coordinate distribution of this aid in the state for commercial fishing businesses, charter/for-hire businesses, qualified aquaculture operations, processors and other fishery-related businesses.
But first ODFW must develop a round two spending plan approved by NOAA Fisheries.
Chris Kern, fish division deputy administrator for ODFW, said the new plan will build on the plan used in round one, with improvements to streamline the process and address some eligibility problems identified in round one.
ODFW is to hold a public virtual meeting, at a date yet to be announced, to get feedback and address concerns.
ODFW’s CARES webpage – www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/CARES/index.asp - will also be updated as more information becomes available. Individuals interested in learning more about the funds are urged to subscribe to the page to receive email updates. Additional information is also expected to be posted at www.psmfc.org as it becomes available.
Meanwhile, questions and concerns may also be sent to ODFW.CARESact@odfw.oregon.gov.
