NOAA Fisheries has just unveiled its 2022 Fisheries Economics of the United States report. This cornerstone resource offers an insightful glimpse into the economic pulse of commercial and recreational fisheries nationwide. However, this year's report brings a fresh twist aimed at enhancing how we consume this essential data.
In a move towards greater accessibility and reader engagement, NOAA has introduced a streamlined version of the report. This revised format retains the essence of the comprehensive data while focusing more on national-level insights alongside select regional and thematic highlights. For those who love diving deep into data, fear not—the complete datasets will soon be available on the Fisheries One Stop Shop database.
Here's What You Need to Know:
Economic Impact: The figures are in, and they're impressive. In 2022, the U.S. commercial and recreational fishing industries bolstered the economy by supporting 2.3 million full- and part-time jobs. These sectors generated a staggering $321 billion in sales impacts and contributed $149 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These numbers highlight the fisheries' economic vitality and their role in supporting broader economic activities.
Commercial Fishing Revenues: The commercial fishing sector has mixed news. Total landing revenues decreased 16% from the previous year, dropping to $5.9 billion. This decline was largely due to falling prices, yet the revenue figures align with the ten-year average, keeping things in perspective amidst fluctuating market conditions.
Recreational Fishing Growth: On a brighter note, recreational fishing has seen a remarkable surge, generating $138 billion in sales impacts—an increase of 22% from 2021. This growth underscores the sector's expanding role within the U.S. tourism and coastal economies, marking it as a significant economic and recreational activity area.
Final Thoughts
The 2022 Fisheries Economics report from NOAA provides a snapshot of the fiscal health of the U.S. fishing industries. It serves as a testament to their enduring importance in the national economy. Whether you're a policy maker, industry stakeholder, or fishing enthusiast, this report offers valuable insights that help you appreciate the substantial contributions of these sectors. With its new, user-friendly format, delving into these insights is more accessible and engaging than ever. Keep an eye on NOAA's database for the complete datasets to explore more detailed information tailored to specific interests and needs.