Uncertainty grows over herring quota in Vestmannaeyjar and Fjarðabyggð, Iceland

In the municipalities of Vestmannaeyjar and Fjarðabyggð, there is growing uncertainty surrounding the herring quota, which is vital for local economies. Community members are hoping that the Marine Research Institute finds more herring after the New Year, as no quotas will be issued until then.

Herring is a cold-water fish species that typically migrates to shallower waters to spawn. Throughout most of its life, Icelandic herring remains in the ocean, feeding in regions far north, up to the coasts of Eastern Greenland.

The absence of a herring quota this year has been described as a significant blow by local leaders. Jón Björn Hákonarson, the mayor of Fjarðabyggð and spokesperson for the fishing community association that includes 24 municipalities, highlighted the negative impact on local revenues, noting that many fishing communities are facing tough times due to the lack of herring catch this year.

Last week, the Marine Research Institute announced that no herring quota would be allocated for the 2024-2025 period, which is particularly concerning as the primary fishing season runs from January to April. Current surveys indicate that the target sizes for spawning stocks are unlikely to be met.

Community leaders are calling for increased research efforts in the fishing sector. The Marine Research Institute plans to reassess the situation after the New Year, and Hákonarson remains hopeful for an improved outlook, emphasizing the importance of robust research to understand the dynamics of marine life affected by environmental changes and increasing whale populations.