The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) convened on June 13, 2025, to discuss critical issues impacting marine resources and energy management along the West Coast. The meeting highlighted two significant executive orders aimed at reshaping energy policies and mineral resource management in U.S. waters.

The first executive order, issued on April 8, 2025, focuses on "Protecting American Energy from State Overreach." This directive aims to facilitate oil and gas leasing in 27 designated areas, including regions off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California. The order seeks to override state laws that currently prohibit offshore drilling, a move that has sparked considerable concern among local officials and environmental advocates. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has expressed strong opposition, citing a long-standing state policy against offshore oil and gas exploration. In response, Oregon's senators have introduced the West Coast Protection Act, which would permanently ban new drilling leases off the West Coast.

The second executive order discussed, "Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources," emphasizes the potential for seabed mining and exploration. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is set to publish a request for information regarding seabed mineral leasing off American Samoa, marking a significant step toward potential mineral lease sales in federal waters. This initiative could have far-reaching implications for resource management and environmental protection in the region.

In addition to energy discussions, the council addressed the management of the sardine fishery, which has faced challenges due to discrepancies in catch accounting between northern and southern sardine subpopulations. Stakeholders emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of management practices to ensure sustainable fishing while addressing the complexities of stock assessments. The council is urged to consider new scientific findings that suggest the two subpopulations may be genetically identical, which could simplify management strategies.

As the PFMC continues its deliberations, the implications of these executive orders and fishery management strategies will be closely monitored. The council's decisions could significantly influence both local economies and environmental policies in the coming years. The next steps will involve further public comment periods and potential adjustments to management practices based on stakeholder feedback and scientific research.