December 19, 2007

US pumps US$15 million support to Alabama's ailing seafood industry

The US congress announced to allocate around US$15 million to Alabama seafood business after it was whiplashed by Hurricane Katrina.

Alabama state officials are still examining the best places to spend the US$15-million aid to jumpstart what has been a bustling trade for seafood processors and dealers.

However, the fund is not much if pitted against the total damage estimate of US$112 million from the 2005 hurricane season, according to industry observers.

Yet, US officials are hopeful it will revive the industry along the Alabama coast.

Vernon Minton, director of the Alabama Marine Resources Division, said more than US$8 million of the money will go to businesses like shrimp processors and oyster dealers.

Around US$6 million will go to facilities that had storm damage resulting in lost sales and inventory. The remaining money will fund a recycling plant for seafood waste.

Officials explained that surveys are still ongoing in coastal businesses to determine how to best spend the US$15 million.