The State of Texas Gulf Shrimp BY ANDREA HANCE
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or generations, the bountiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico have provided a distinctive lifestyle for Texas commer cial fishermen. This industry, fueled by hard work and the sea, feeds a nation hungry for tender, premium, wild-caught seafood, including delicious Gulf shrimp. Within these hardworking men and women, pride runs deeper than our Lone Star waters. The history of Texas shrimp is a story of innovation and preservation that continues to this day. But while this story is a good one, the industry is faced with a wealth of challenges that must be met head on. Now more than ever is the time for consumers to support our fellow Texans by choosing, buying and serving Texas Gulf shrimp. Simply put, the industry is depending on it. Below are some interesting facts that should make you think twice the next time you eat Texas Gulf shrimp. The Texas shrimp industry has diminished by 70% over the last 25 years due to the costly regulations and the flood of cheap, unregulated imported shrimp being dumped into the United States.
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The cost to own and operate a commercial fishing vessel (F/V) is 3 X higher today than 25 year ago (the cost to purchase a boat plus the 13,000 regulations bestowed upon our industry). Shrimping is the 13th most regulated industry in the United States – a few regulations shy of the airline industry – costing the boat owner thousands of dollars each year. We estimate that approximately 20% of those who continue to fish are operating at a deficit or a net income below poverty levels and can only adequately provide for their families with supplemental income derived from a 2nd or 3rd job/business. Although our industry is considered one of the most sustainable fisheries in the world, we have paid dearly for this accomplishment. For example, a TED (turtle excluder device) costs each boat owner approximately $20 - $30,000 per boat, per year. This includes the cost to purchase the TED’s plus the loss of production (we are essentially pulling a net with a hole in it). Millions of dollars have been spent each year for turtle conservation, curtsy of Texas shrimpers..
