Commercial fishermen striving to be a voice for rational, sustainable federal fisheries policy sought guidance on how to be heard. Fishing interests typically operate regionally or independently.
Through a series of meetings and interviews with key policy actors and likely partners, Engage recommended the creation of Seafood Harvester’s Association—a new professional alliance of allied commercial fishing interests united for “accountable and thriving fisheries.” We developed a leadership structure and funding model, crafted a mission statement, identified the founding leaders, and created organizational documents such as bylaws, identity materials, and operating agreements. Engage also provided legal counsel on how best to incorporate to enable effective communication with both the public and state and federal policy makers. We also held a series of meetings with the new members to develop a shared policy platform. That work—a detailed analysis of areas of policy alignment, issue resonance, and potential disagreement—helped shape the foundation for success and was the guiding strategic plan.
Seafood Harvesters and the related Education Fund were launched in April 2014. Since then, Engage has worked to support the organization through other leadership transitions, assisting with Executive Director searches and providing operational advice. The organization continues to thrive with over 16 member organizations and 12 associate members.
