Duncan Fields steps away from Board of Fisheries appointment

Kayla Desroches/KMXT

Governor Bill Walker has appointed Anchorage’s Alan Cain to the Alaska Board of Fisheries for a second term.

The former Alaska Wildlife Trooper and Board of Fisheries consultant had previously decided not to put his name forward again.

Earlier in the month, Governor Bill Walker selected commercial fisherman and former North Pacific Fishery Management Council member, Duncan Fields of Kodiak, for the seat.

After the announcement, sixteen sports fishing groups signed a letter against Fields’ appointment and sent it to the Alaska legislature.

Along with the letter, the Kenai River Sportfishing Association issued a press release stating that the appointment would sway the Board of Fisheries toward commercial fisheries interests. The letter cited that imbalance and an insufficient representation for the Anchorage area.

According to a press release from the governor’s office, Fields withdrew his name when Cain decided to pursue a second term.

Fields declined to comment, and Cain only stated that his family circumstances have changed and he is available to serve again.

Board of Fisheries members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Alaska legislature.