The United Fishermen of Alaska Board of Directors, composed of 37 fisheries trade organizations and four at-large members, have named Kathy and Ed Hansen as “Fishermen of the Year” for 2007, based on the Hansen’s tireless work helping to forge long term solutions to the issue of fisheries allocation between the traditional commercial and emerging sport charter sectors of the industry.
“Usually just one person wins this award,” said UFA President Joe Childers, “but in this case we had to make an exception. Where Kathy goes Ed goes, and vice versa, and wherever they go and whatever they do they complement and support one another.” The Hansens are the fisherman’s version of a “Power Couple” and are well known, having fished together throughout the southeast region for over 23 years. Kathy and Ed are Juneau residents who longline for halibut and troll for salmon out of Hoonah and Sitka.
They also are recognized in meeting halls throughout Alaska for their work in regulatory forums at the local, state and national levels. Kathy has been Chair of the Juneau-Douglas Fish and Game Advisory Council since 2000, and is also the Executive Director of Southeast Alaska Fishermen’s Alliance (SEAFA). Her participation on the North Pacific Fishery Management Council’s Halibut Charter working group is deeply appreciated because she is one of only two commercial fisherman’s representatives. The working group was formed in 2005 to pursue long term solutions to the controversial Gulf of Alaska halibut allocation issues between rapidly expanding commercial charter fisheries and the traditional commercial longline fisheries. Kathy is also the only commercial representative on the State taskforce on charter limited entry taskforce.
“Allocation issues are tough, but Kathy and Ed have the personal integrity and dedication that can move tough issues forward. They are real Alaskans who have dedicated countless hours to issues that affect the state’s coastal communities. They are as at home on the deck of the boat as in the Board room and are a very effective team. They capably represent fishermen and the fishing industry in a very professional manner and we are proud to recognize their efforts through this award,” said UFA President Joe Childers.
