American Seafood Industry Leader Warns Washington Policies Threaten U.S. Food Security
BOSTON, Mass. — Jerry Leeman, chairman and chief strategist of the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association (NEFSA), issued a stark warning on Tuesday about the mounting threats facing American commercial fishermen, emphasizing that the nation’s seafood industry is a critical component of U.S. food security. Leeman, who has spent his life working as a commercial fisherman in the North Atlantic and the New York Bight, criticized Washington’s ocean policies for undermining the livelihoods of fishermen and called for urgent reforms to protect domestic seafood production from foreign imports and offshore wind developments.
Leeman highlighted that the United States controls one of the world’s largest and most productive ocean food resources, yet government decisions often prioritize theoretical models and bureaucratic paperwork over the lived experience of those who fish these waters daily. “Commercial fishermen are not line items,” Leeman said. “We live with the consequences of every decision made in Washington.” He pointed out that current policies can make fishing less safe, result in poor fishery management, and threaten to drive American fishermen out of business.
The chairman’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the impact of offshore wind projects on fishing grounds, as well as the increasing influx of imported seafood that competes with American wild-caught products. Leeman urged policymakers to recognize that domestic seafood production is not merely an economic activity but a vital component of national food security. “In 2026, it is time to clearly recognize that U.S. wild-caught seafood is U.S. food security,” he said.
Experts agree that sustainable management of fisheries is essential for long-term food supply and environmental health. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries oversees the stewardship of marine resources and has implemented various regulations to protect fish stocks. However, fishermen like Leeman argue that some policies fail to adequately balance conservation goals with the economic realities of fishing communities.
Additionally, the expansion of offshore wind energy, while critical for renewable energy goals, has raised concerns among fishermen about restricted access to traditional fishing areas. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages offshore leasing and has been working to coordinate between energy developers and fishing interests, but tensions remain.
Leeman’s call to action underscores the need for a more integrated approach that supports both energy transition and the preservation of the fishing industry. He also emphasized the importance of protecting American seafood markets from imports that may not meet the same rigorous safety and sustainability standards.
“We are a nation of fishermen ready to roll up our sleeves, do the work and get the job done,” Leeman said. His message resonates with many in coastal communities who depend on fishing not only for their livelihoods but also as a cultural heritage.
For those interested in the intersection of national security and food supply, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Security programs highlight the importance of domestic food production systems, including fisheries, in maintaining a resilient food supply chain.
As policymakers consider the future of ocean management, the voices of fishermen like Leeman emphasize that safeguarding American seafood production is essential not only for economic reasons but also for national security and sustainable food systems.
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