Alaska king and snow crab, like all species of seafood from Alaska, are managed for sustainability. Scientists use the latest available scientific data to establish harvest levels that maintain a maximum sustained yield.
Alaska crab stocks are jointly managed through an agreement between federal and state organisations: the Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADFG) is responsible for conservation and management, and the North Pacific Management Council (NPFMC) is responsible for policy and allocation.
- The 2011 quota for Alaska Bristol Bay red king crab is over seven million pounds, which represents a 47 per cent reduction from 2010.
- The 2011 Alaska Bering Sea snow (opilio) crab quota is set at nearly 90 million pounds, a 64 per cent increase over 2010.
- The 2011 Saint Matthew Island blue king crab quota is set at over two million pounds, which represents a 47 per cent increase from last year.
Collectively, these decisions reflect the states ongoing commitment to sustainable seafood, which has existed since Alaska became a state more than 50 years ago. The State of Alaska recognizes seafood as a precious natural resource and the seafood industry is a vital component of the states economy.
King crab is celebrated for its sweet flavour and rich, tender meata premium product that is unmatched in size, quality, and appearance. Snow crab has a delicately sweet flavor and tender, snowy white meat. Also known for offering consumers a great value. Alaska crab makes for exceptionally delicious eating, from warming Alaska Seafood Tom Yum to elegant Steamed Alaska Crab with Chardonnay-Lemon-Herb Splash to quick and easy Alaska Crab and Artichoke Quesadillas for guests.
