U.S. Seafood Policy Council Thanks Tom Vilsack for Service as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2025

(Washington, D.C.) – As Secretary Tom Vilsack concludes his tenure as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, the U.S. Seafood Policy Council (USSPC) honors his unwavering dedication to American agriculture, with a special emphasis on the seafood industry, aquaculture, and the coastal communities that sustain these vital sectors. Serving as the 30th Secretary from 2009 to 2017 and returning as the 32nd Secretary from 2021 to 2025, Secretary Vilsack's leadership has significantly advanced the interests of fishermen, longshoremen, seafood farmers, and aquaculture innovators nationwide.

Throughout his cumulative 12 years at the helm of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Secretary Vilsack has been instrumental in expanding opportunities and resources for America's seafood and aquaculture industries. His tenure is marked by a steadfast commitment to sustainable seafood production, innovation in aquaculture technology, and the economic vitality of coastal and rural communities.

Key Accomplishments Supporting the Seafood Industry

1. Promoting Aquaculture Development
   Secretary Vilsack played a pivotal role in revitalizing the National Aquaculture Development Plan, the first update in over 40 years, to foster sustainable growth in the aquaculture sector. This comprehensive plan outlines objectives to promote economic growth, ensure sustainability, and enhance food security within the industry.

2. Seafood Marketing and Export Growth
   Under Secretary Vilsack's leadership, the USDA facilitated significant seafood purchases to support American producers. Notably, as part of the pandemic response, the USDA announced "the largest single seafood purchase in the Department’s history," including more than $70 million for pollock, shrimp, whiting, rockfish, and salmon products.

3. Supporting Fishermen and Coastal Workers
   Secretary Vilsack ensured that USDA programs provided critical support to fishing communities, particularly during times of crisis. For instance, following natural disasters, the USDA delivered emergency relief funds through various programs, aiding fishermen, longshoremen, and seafood processors in their recovery efforts.

4. Investing in Seafood Research and Development
   Through strategic investments in sustainable agricultural research projects, Secretary Vilsack advanced innovations in aquaculture. In 2021, the USDA announced an investment of more than $146 million in sustainable agricultural research projects aimed at improving a robust, resilient, climate-smart food and agricultural system, which includes aquaculture.

5. Strengthening Coastal Infrastructure
   Secretary Vilsack's tenure saw investments in rural infrastructure that benefited coastal communities. The USDA's commitment to building vibrant rural communities included support for infrastructure projects that enhanced the efficiency and safety of seafood processing facilities, thereby supporting the economic stability of small- and medium-sized seafood businesses.

Secretary Vilsack's tenure is distinguished by his commitment to bipartisan collaboration, working across party lines to advance policies benefiting the American seafood industry. His unwavering advocacy for sustainable practices, workforce support, and market expansion has contributed to a resilient and prosperous future for American seafood.

As he departs his role, the USSPC extends its deepest gratitude for his years of service and commitment to fostering a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive seafood sector in the United States.

About the U.S. Seafood Policy Council:

The U.S. Seafood Policy Council (USSPC) is a public-private partnership that promotes and supports a strong American seafood industry. The Council collaborates with federal, state, tribal, multilateral, and industry partners to advance policies that enhance the sustainability, resilience, and profitability of America’s domestic seafood industry.