Senate panel advances Ketchikan mariculture manager to Board of Fisheries

The Senate Resources Committee advanced Friday the nomination of Paul Cyr to the Alaska Board of Fisheries. The move would restore Southeast Alaska representation on the seven-member board that sets fishing regulations statewide.

Cyr is general manager of Sea Grove Alaska mariculture company in Ketchikan. He brings 20 years of experience in oyster and kelp farming, fish processing, and sport fishing lodge operations.

"We believe that having someone that is from a commercial coastal area helps balance the board," said Nels Evans of the Petersburg Vessel Owners Association. Southeast Alaska currently has no representation on the board.

Cyr told the committee his approach would center on process, people, and science. Conservation must come first, he said, before the resource can be used for the benefit of Alaskans.

"I believe it's critical to show up prepared and truly listen to the subsistence users, to the sport anglers, to the commercial fishermen alike," Cyr said.

The committee also advanced Mike Wood's reappointment. Wood is a Cook Inlet setnetter who lives north of Talkeetna in Chase. He has served on the board for three years.

The committee advanced Blair Hickson as well. Hickson operates the Anvik River Lodge in western Alaska and has participated in sport, personal use, and subsistence fisheries.

Members are appointed by the governor and must be confirmed by a majority of the legislature in joint session. They serve staggered three-year terms beginning July 1. The full legislature will vote on the nominations in joint session.