Trump EOs aim to boost US fishing by easing rules, opening marine reserves

One of the world's largest ocean reserves is now being open to commercial fishing for the first time in over a decade

The result of a new executive order signed by President Trump Thursday

The Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, located roughly 750 miles west of Hawaii

spans nearly 500,000 square miles and is home to a vast collection of wildlife

including endangered species such as sea turtles and whales. Trump says the move to allow fishing operations in this area is intended to support U.S. seafood production

and benefit the economies of American Pacific territories. The president also cited data which found nearly 90 percent of U.S. seafood comes from imports

with the nation's trade deficit in this sector currently standing at $20 billion

A second executive order signed by Trump directs federal agencies to reduce regulations

on the commercial fishing and aquaculture industries, as well as review all the nation's other marine monuments for potential changes to access

American Samoa's delegate to the House of Representatives asserts this measure restores economic opportunity to Pacific Island communities that depend heavily on fishing

calling it, quote, fantastic news for U.S. food security. The Trump administration maintains existing environmental laws

such as the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act, will continue to safeguard the area

However, environmental organizations have raised concerns about the potential ecological impact. Because the marine monument is known for its rich biodiversity

critics warn that industrial fishing could threaten its fragile ecosystems. The Center for Biological Diversity called the decision, quote

a gift to industrial fishing fleets and a slap in the face to science

Activists with Earthjustice have questioned the legality of the executive orders from Trump

and said they would do everything in their power to protect this marine reserve

For Straight Arrow News, I'm Jack Elmer