Environmental projects for commercial fishing in Bellingham in question following frozen EPA grants - My Bellingham Now

Environmental projects aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of commercial fishing in Bellingham are currently facing uncertainty due to grants from the EPA being frozen. The Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County has confirmed that five engine replacement projects for three different companies have been suspended, leading to concerns among local fishers. Executive Director Dan Tucker stressed that this uncertainty complicates the decision-making process for fishers who rely on these grants to afford necessary upgrades. Many in the industry are still using engines from the 1960s, and without financial support, they cannot commit to improvements that would enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. While Tucker notes there is some hope that the projects might proceed since they involve diesel-to-diesel conversions, the overall situation remains precarious.

The implications of these funding cuts extend beyond Bellingham, affecting fishing communities from Alaska to Maine. Without reliable grants, many fishers face significant financial risks, as they cannot afford to undertake upgrades without the promise of reimbursement. This situation underscores the critical need for stable funding to support environmental initiatives in the commercial fishing sector.