January 29, 2009
Alaskan seafood processor files for bankruptcy protection
Wrangell Seafoods, a processor of southeastern Alaska seafood in Wrangell, has filed for bankruptcy protection, acknowledging millions of dollars in debts.
An official with the city of Wrangell said two bad fishing seasons were likely a major part of the problem.
Wrangell city manager, Bob Prunella said at least part of the problem was that area fishermen anticipated harvesting a substantial amount of chum salmon over the past two fishing seasons at nearby Anita Bay, but the chum did not materialize and harvests of pink salmon have also been poor for two years.
The Wrangell plant also processes halibut, herring, lingcod, rockfish, shrimp, prawns and sea cucumber.
The bankruptcy was filed January 9 and the bankruptcy court is expected to schedule hearings after all required paperwork is filed, before the end of January.
