When it comes to putting responsible practices into place to monitor and regulate industrial activities, the Alaskan fishing industry is a prime example which can serve as a model to be emulated for many other parts of the country and many other sectors of the economy.
Historically, Alaskan fisheries have received a high level of attention and concern on behalf of the state and national governments, as well as ordinary Alaskans who took the initiative to preserve what for them was (and still is) a valuable local resource.
One of the best examples of this phenomenon is crab sustainability, which has been carried out so diligently and professionally by all participants.
In Alaska, efforts to preserve crab habitats and bolster crap populations are run by a joint state-federal workforce.
But that is not to say that other parties aren't involved in these initiatives: the private industrial fishing sector itself has contributed, and there have been notable contributions on behalf of academic and scientific research groups (universities and others) in this regard.
Crab sustainability has been promoted by the designation of wide swaths of seafloor as protected areas where any fishing activity is either strictly prohibited, or bottom gear alone is prohibited (crab live on the very bottom of the ocean).
There is basically a three-tier structure to the preservation efforts taking place in Alaska's marine ecosystems, representing different levels of authority and jurisdiction.
First, there are the local Alaskan Department of Fish & Game employees who are responsible for conservation and management issues, including scientific research.
Next, there is the North Pacific Fishery Management Council which takes on the tasks of policy and allocations.
Lastly, there is the National Marine Fisheries Service working in tandem with the Alaska Department of Fish & Game to guarantee regulatory enforcement.
All three tiers are crucial for guaranteeing crab sustainability in Alaskan waters, which is not only in the interest of the delicate and tremendously important ecosystems of the northern Pacific Ocean, but furthermore perpetuates the delight of uncountable consumers who enjoy the delicacies of the Alaskan fishing industry every year.
Long live Alaskan crab!