Wendell Curole (left) and Ted Falgout (right), former Extension Agents for Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes, accompany current Extension Agent Nicole Lundberg (center).

Nicole Lundberg is heading up the keynote presentation at the 2020 Louisiana Fisheries Forward Summit. The Summit will be held March 11 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, LA. For registration and info on this free event, visit https://www.lafisheriesforward.org/summit/summit-participant-registration/

Nicole, what is the Keynote topic?

We’ll be presenting an interactive panel discussion on The Graying of the Fleet. Our panel will examine why the average age of fishermen is increasing, and talk about challenges and opportunities for attracting younger people to work on vessels.

What will you and the panelists cover?

We’ll look at Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries data that shows a significant increase in the average age of vessel captains over last 10 years. For example, in 2018 the median age of shrimpers was 54.  We’ll talk about what that means for the industry, and whether that extends to deck hands and crew.

We’ll also discuss uncertainties and other factors that may discourage people from entering the industry, and what can be done about them. These include the cost of entering the industry, financing, seafood pricing, access, coastal issues, and more – all will be food for thought.

Once again, we’ll use audience clickers to poll the audience to understand their take. We are in the process of inviting panelists and expect our group to be set in early 2020.

Why is this important?

As we all know, Louisiana’s seafood industry is significant to our economy, cuisine and culture. Understanding and addressing challenges now will help ensure it’ll be here for future generations.

When is the Keynote?

It is tentatively set for 1:30 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. Please check the website once the agenda is finalized: https://www.lafisheriesforward.org/summit/

Nicole Lundberg is Fisheries and Natural Resource Extension Agent for Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes.