In the interest of improving salmon quality and fishing income, BBEDC's RSW Support Program provides assistance to BBEDC CDQ and Bristol Bay Watershed resident fishers for initial and annual start-ups, maintenance, winterization and technical consultation for Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems. The value of the services per applicant shall not exceed $1,000 per year including any necessary travel and related costs. Applications will be accepted until June 5, 2026.
This program is available to resident fishers in Bristol Bay Watershed Communities. Contact BBEDC for more information on how to qualify.
To be eligible applicants must own a fishing vessel equipped with a mechanical refrigerated seawater system or be committed to installing one this calendar year through either BBEDC's Vessel Upgrade Grant or RSW Purchase Program. As with all BBEDC programs, a current BBEDC Affidavit of Residency must be on file with BBEDC. Applicants must also hold an Alaska CFEC Bristol Bay salmon permit or provide a copy of a contract to fish in the coming season with a CFEC Bristol Bay salmon permit holder; the permit holder must also document residency in a BBEDC CDQ or Bristol Bay Watershed community.
2026 RSW Support Program Application
For more information contact the Regional Fisheries Department by phone at 907-842-4370 or 1-800-478-4370, or email regionalfish@bbedc.com.