Seafood Sustainability

Seafood sustainability in the Gulf and South Atlantic begins with commercial fishermen and extends all the way down the food supply chain to consumers. Now more than ever, with government policies focused on the health of consumers and their food supply, the Gulf and South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation, Inc. (GASFF) works with the commercial seafood community to ensure sustainability measures that provide for healthy oceans and seafood, along with lasting success and enjoyment for generations of fishermen, retailers and consumers.

Look no further than the Foundation’s many research projects and its monitoring of fish species such as red snapper for proof of this commitment. The Foundation does its part for sustainability by monitoring the population of fish species in the Gulf and South Atlantic through research. For example, the Gulf and South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation, Inc. funds many red snapper tagging cruises which monitor the red snapper stock populations. Projects such as these provide valuable data for the sustainability of the red snapper population.

Sustainability is particularly important for the commercial fishermen represented by the Foundation, because their livelihood depends on a strong supply of fresh, healthy seafood. For commercial fishermen, true stewards of the sea, a thriving, robust fish supply is essential to their way of life.

This is why the Foundation and its members are so committed to fishery management plans that provide responsibly for today’s supply needs without damaging the ability of the species to reproduce and flourish in nature.

Our commercial fishermen work hard to protect each species and their surrounding environment for future generations while providing fresh, delicious seafood to consumers. Every time commercial fishermen set out on the water, they are caring for the resource that provides food for millions of people and their own bread and butter. They are cognizant of the fact that if we take more from the ocean than can be naturally replenished, the resource will eventually cease to exist.

Thus, they employ fishing practices that protect the health of fish, marine plants and animals. Our fishermen are committed to obeying fishing laws, using careful harvesting methods, and accurately reporting catches.

The Foundation also promotes sustainability to retailers, suppliers, chefs and consumers by stressing the importance of buying their seafood only from fisheries that share our commitment to responsible management and use of our wonderful seafood supply. Together, from the catch to the plate, we can all maintain a robust seafood supply for generations to come.