The assessment was carried out by an independent four-person evaluation team headed by DNV GL. Both Alaska rockfish and Atka mackerel fisheries were found to have met the comprehensive science-based criteria of the Alaska RFM Fishery Standard, which focuses on six key components: the fisheries management system, science and stock assessment activities, a precautionary approach, management measures, implementation, monitoring and control, and serious impacts of the fishery on the ecosystem. Once certified, these fisheries, just like all RFM Certified fisheries undergo annual audits and are reassessed every five years.
ASMI board member Allen Kimball with Trident Seafoods states “The Alaska Seafood Cooperative applied for RFM Certification because of their confidence in Alaska’s historic leadership and dedication to responsible fisheries management. We are so proud to have our fishermen and system validated. Being able to make a product claim on fish caught from June 17, 2019 forward, will help our industry meet their customers desire for certified sustainable Alaska rockfish and Atka mackerel.”
Alaska RFM is a comprehensive certification program offering choice in certification, without logo licensing fees. It is founded on the strongest and most widely acknowledged international standards and practices. Alaska RFM was the first sustainability eco-certification program to be recognized by the Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative (GSSI) back in 2016 and recently Alaska RFM completed GSSI’s Monitoring of Continued Alignment process, retaining GSSI recognition for an additional three years.
