More Job Losses In Store For California: Recreational Fishermen To Be Hit Again

New Study Shows Significant Economic Impacts of North Central Coast Closures on California and Local Coastal Communities

Sacramento, CA (4/18/08)—A new economic study, released today by the Partnership for Sustainable Oceans (PSO), demonstrates that two of the three marine protected area (MPA) proposals currently before the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF) could have a devastating effect on the economy of California’s North Central Coast. Using available economic and fishing data, the study illustrates the impact that each MPA proposal will have on marine recreational fishing and local economies. Annually, recreational fishing has more than a billion dollar impact on California’s economy.

“This economic analysis was developed to help policymakers, the media and recreational fishermen gain a better appreciation of the extent of marine recreational fishing, the related retail expenditures and the resulting jobs, tax revenues and other economic benefits generated for California’s economy,” said Gordon Robertson, vice president, American Sportfishing Association. “Many of these businesses are directly related to fishing such as charter boats, marinas and tackle shops. However, many more businesses supported by anglers include hotels, restaurants, convenience stores and more.”

Of the three proposals being considered by the BRTF, Proposal 2-XA, which has the support of the PSO, establishes MPAs that will have the least economic impact by minimizing unnecessary closures to recreational fishing. According to the study, adoption of Proposal 1-3 would result in higher economic losses in contrast to 2-XA. Proposal 4 would result in a 30 percent decrease in retail sales, jobs and state and local tax revenues, compared to 2-XA, by prohibiting fishing in 14 percent of the study area.

Combined with the recent salmon season closures, businesses dependent on recreational fishing will suffer significant and potentially irreparable economic consequences. This may require California Governor Schwarzenegger to issue another disaster proclamation concurrent with the implementation of the MLPA.

“The available economic data proves what we already know: Marine recreational fishing is an important outdoor activity for nearly one million California residents and visitors. Recreational fishermen spend significant amounts of money, and that money has a ripple effect throughout the economy—particularly in coastal communities reliant on tourism and destination dollars,” said Rob Southwick, president, Southwick Associates, who conducted the research.

Recreational fishermen along the North Central Coast generate:

• $104.4 million in retail sales
• $59.6 million in salaries, wages and business earnings
• 1,611 jobs
• $13.0 million in state and local tax revenue
• $184.7 million in total economic activity (ripple effect).