Monica Allen, spokeswoman for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries, said this is the second recovery award given to the state. She said previously the state got $37 million aided resource recovery, including restoring reefs and wetlands that serve as homes and spawning grounds for economically important fish.
According to her the new award will do more for fishermen, as well as create docks and other facilities for the fishing industry. She also added that the authority wants to see the fishing industry brought back to a good healthy situation and to improve the economy of fishing town.
Corky Perret, Deputy Director, Department of Marine Resources, explained that some of the award money will go to fishermen and charter boats willing to help the Department of Marine Resources research and monitor recovering fisheries. He further adds that the money will be spend on education projects, water quality and seafood testing, as well as making sure there are adequate facilities for fishermen on shore.
Brian Gellott, president of CF Gollott Seafoods, opined that the cleanup funds are welcome as it will help the loss-running processing facilities and freezers.
