Shrimp boat sit at the docks at Delcambre. Photo: Ed Lallo/Louisiana Seafood News
Editors Note:
This is a series of articles from the Louisiana Seafood Board’s 2012 Annual Report. The report has been mailed to the Louisiana seafood community as well as state and national legislators. It is also available online and can be downloaded for printing.
by Springfield Lewis/Louisiana Seafood News
Perhaps, the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board is misnamed.
Because beyond the important work of promoting and marketing, it does so much more for the seafood community – especially the heavy lifting that makes things happen.
Working closely with government officials and other agencies and organizations is a key role of the Seafood Board. Ewell Smith (l), the Seafood Board’s executive director, works closely with Louisiana Restaurant Association CEO Stan Harris to educate Capitol Hill legislators on the interests and concerns of the Louisiana seafood community. Photo: Ed Lallo/Louisiana Seafood News
In fact, the board acts as an advocate for commercial fishermen – hearing concerns, making their case and creating a well-recognized public face.
This organization represents the diverse and dynamic interests of Louisiana’s $2.6-billion seafood industry, the equivalent of a FORTUNE 1000 company.
In one way or another, the business of seafood provides jobs for one out of 70 workers in the state – from the waterfront to storefronts and many places in-between.
The board works to benefit all constituents throughout the seafood business cycle, which involves:
- Partnering with officials to ensure safe, productive habitats for fresh and saltwater wildlife.
- Cultivating and harvesting a wide variety of products – from finfish, shrimp, oysters, crabs, crayfish and alligators.
- Processing and distributing the certified Louisiana brand throughout the state, across the country and around the world.
- Increasing sales of products to wholesalers, small businesses, restaurants and seafood lovers alike.
Month in and month out, the board goes to where the business of seafood gets done – from the marshlands to the bays to the docks … and from local parishes to the state house to Washington, D.C.
And at the end of the day, the Louisiana Seafood Board becomes a voice for shared concerns and common interests, working through problems and maximizing the economic viability of this diverse industry.
“We are committed to not only developing new areas for Louisiana seafood, but elevating business in current markets as well. And, there’s plenty to go around,” said Ewell Smith, the board’s executive director.
“Our calling card is Louisiana’s cuisine, culture and heritage. With that in hand, we are dedicated to protecting Louisiana’s wildlife and fisheries, supporting those whose livelihoods depend on seafood –and, of course, promoting the growth of a commercial seafood communities that’s an economic engine for this state.”
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