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Dinneford, E., K. Iverson, B. Muse, and K. Schelle. 1997. "Changes Under Alaska's Sablefish IFQ Program, 1995 to 1996"

Abstract:

This study uses NMFS-RAM administrative data and other ancillary data to analyze the first two years of the sablefish individual fishing quota (IFQ) program in Alaska. The topics covered in the report include basic data on the extent of consolidation of quota share (QS) holdings, the volume of permanent QS transfers and QS prices, and the volume of seasonal QS lease transfers and IFQ lease prices.

The report highlights the importance of several special features of the IFQ program and provides an extensive overview of changes in the geographic distribution of QS holdings. The report includes summary data on permanent transfers including the amount of QS transferred as sales, gifts, and trades; the relationships between the transferors and transfer recipients; and the finance methods used in sales transfers.

The report investigates changes in the distribution of QS by person-type, changes in the distribution of QS between initial QS recipients and new entrants, and changes in the sablefish harvest and delivery patterns. The report also provides information on the consolidation of IFQ permit holders onto single vessel operations and on the underharvest of IFQ during 1995 and 1996.