It’s not been easy, we all know that. Across Oregon, America and as is seen in many other parts of the world, industries are being hit hard by the economic damage of the pandemic. We’re now seeing COVID-19 take down major players in industries across the whole business landscape, from housing and loan providers to automotive manufacturers.
The industries in Oregon are no exception to reality and we’ve seen them take as fair a hit on the chin as any other company in the region. With lockdown limitations restricting the customers and fishermen so important to business in the region, small businesses in particular are starving out.
Relief arrives
Fortunately, we’re now seeing much-needed relief appear on the horizon. As of several weeks ago, the period in which fishing-related businesses could apply for government assistance opened. With many being small businesses that nevertheless form the heart and soul of any community, it’s encouraging to see the good people of Oregon have help in sustaining their livelihoods.
It’s no secret that the fishing industry is vital to Oregon’s economic health. It’s important to its culture, too; fishing and sailing life is in the DNA of residents. Recognising that COVID-19 has taken such a serious toll has been the very thing to spur a relief package for those in the industry, with fisheries allocated approximately sixteen million Dollars.
There will be eligibility limits on the claims and they will have their own set of requirements. Business owners who are interested in requesting support through the scheme are advised to do so at www.psmfc.org. It’s important to note that tribal fisheries have been included in what is now known as the CARES Act. Such businesses will have the opportunity to apply for assistance, but this will be handled via a separate scheme.
A struggling industry
It’s no secret that the state and its industries are struggling during the current pandemic. As is the case with any industry that requires such access to the outdoors, it’s our hopes every day to see the region recover and to return to previous trade and activity.
With onshore harvestings accounting for one hundred and forty-four million Dollars in revenue alone in 2016, there’s a lot on the line. The disruption to travel and the damage this has done to logistics is the key for Oregon and its fishing businesses; in the same 2016 accounts, over a thousand vessels interacted with Oregon ports. A powerful and established industry must now adjust to working with limited access and movement.
Hope ahead
Although much remains uncertain and there is no avoiding the reality of the situation, there is hope ahead for Oregon. As government plans adjust to the present situation and are made available to businesses in need, more can be done to stabilise the economy and to bring things back to a semblance of normalcy.
Once this is done, more practical steps can be taken to stimulate the economy once more. The Nihon Fishing team hopes for the best for the region; we’ve long appreciated Oregon for its stunning scenery, wonderful people and thriving fishing scene both recreational and commercial.
In the interim, the state recommends that any fishing-related business in Oregon that wishes to access the scheme does so as soon as possible. If you have been affected and you feel you meet the criteria for applying for relief, online applications and information can be found at www.psmfc.org.
Best of luck to Oregon and her waters! The CARES Act is an important part of maintaining a beloved industry and the people that operate within it.
