Conference Information

Announcement

Many of Alaska's coastal communities, rich with vibrant histories and diverse cultures and economies, face an uncertain future. In most coastal communities, the local economy is fueled by a combination of government spending, subsistence activities, and, in the private sector, fisheries and other resource development. As government spending declines, the role of the private economy becomes more important.

With the advent of fisheries rationalization and the ever-changing global economy impacting fish prices, Alaska’s coastal communities must be proactive in maintaining fishing as an important economic sector. To do so requires an understanding of the value of fishing to the community’s economy and how fishing communities are changing. A community with the common goal of preserving its fishing economy can use different means to encourage local access, support the resource and encourage a strong financial base for the future.

This conference is designed for coastal Alaska community residents, including fishermen, municipal and tribal government representatives, and other coastal residents involved in the fishing economy. Fishery managers and government representatives who are involved in economic development in coastal Alaska are also encouraged to attend.

Day 1 of the conference will look at the value of Alaska’s fishing communities, and ways to define a community’s goals for maintaining a strong fishing economy. Day 2 will analyze a variety of strategies being used around the state and outside of Alaska to maintain a strong fishing base. Both days end with a substantial period for roundtable discussions by the participants.

Topics

Afternoon breakout sessions both days will allow for participant discussion.

Call for posters

This conference seeks poster contributions for the topics listed above. Corresponding extended abstracts are sought for the proceedings book.

Please submit your poster abstract online, using our poster abstract submission form.

Abstracts for poster presentations were due no later than September 1, 2006. If you have any questions about the online abstract submission form, please contact the conference coordinator.

Presenter guidelines

Presenter guidelines are available on this Web site. Please note that PowerPoint presentations must be submitted to the conference coordinator by September 15, 2006. If you require equipment or software for other than a PC-based Power Point presentation, please give prior notice to the coordinator so that your presentation may be accommodated.

Location and Facilities

The conference will be held at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel, 500 West Third Avenue. The Hilton Anchorage Hotel offers a variety of guest amenities including dining, a fitness center and swimming pool, and Internet access.

Guest room accommodations are available for conference participants at a special rate of $95.00 for a standard single room, plus 12% city bed tax. Be sure to make your reservations by September 11 (deadline has been extended) to receive the special meeting rate. Ask for the "Alaska's Fishing Communities" group rate. Make your reservations directly with the Hilton:

Hilton Anchorage Hotel
500 West Third Ave.
Anchorage, AK 99501
Voice: 907-272-7411
Fax: 907-265-7044

Registration

The registration fee is $75.00 per person if received by September 14. After September 14, registration will be available only onsite at the conference. The fee covers a light continental breakfast and break refreshments daily, a reception, and conference materials. Online and mail-in registration are now closed; please register onsite.

Steering Committee

Sponsors

NOAA Fisheries

Special thanks to the conference primary financial sponsor, NOAA Fisheries, Alaska Region.