Pacific Choice Seafood Pulls Out of Crescent City Harbor, Leaving Fishermen Without Vital Ice Supply

Pacific Choice Seafood, a long-standing family firm, has made the difficult decision to pull out of the Crescent City Harbor, leaving local commercial fishermen in a bind. The company’s ice plant operation, vital for ensuring the freshness of fish catches, will no longer be available in the area.

The move comes as a result of stringent regulations imposed by the California Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the use of anhydrous ammonia-based freezing processes. Pacific Choice Seafood has opted to relocate its operations to Oregon, where new ice-making technology involving non-toxic Carbon Dioxide is in place.

Despite the anticipated exit, the EPA has failed to conduct mandated inspections of the ice-making machinery since 2008, adding to the challenges faced by the company and local fishermen. In response, Harbormaster Mike Rademaker has been working tirelessly to find a temporary solution to the ice shortage, especially with the upcoming return of commercial shrimp and crab vessels in January.

Efforts are underway to secure alternative ice-producing machinery and funding for necessary inspections and equipment updates. Senate Pro Tempore Mike McGuire is set to meet with local officials to address the issue, while options such as seeking grants from the Coastal Conservancy and partnering with tribal groups are being explored.

The departure of Pacific Choice Seafood highlights the impact of regulatory hurdles on local businesses and the fishing industry. The Crescent City Harbor Commission is actively seeking solutions to ensure the continuity of ice supply for the commercial fishing fleet, underscoring the importance of collaboration and innovation in overcoming challenges in the maritime sector.