"Relating to Alaska Wild Salmon Week, June 28 - July 4, 2004."

Alaska is the largest commercial wild salmon fishery in the world and employs more than 29,000 people. Nearly 95% of all commercially caught salmon in the United States are harvested in Alaska. In the last decade, state salmon harvest totaled more than $4.5 billion, making salmon extremely vital to Alaska's economy.

For both visitors and Alaskans, the sport of fishing is one of the most popular activities in the state. Last year, approximately 470,000 resident and non-resident licenses were issued for sport fishing.

Beyond the importance of commercial and sport fishing, salmon has been a nutritional source for generations of Alaskans and is a large part of the state's heritage. Rich in Omega 3 oils, salmon is a healthy food that can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

House Concurrent Resolution 25 would proclaim June 28 - July 4, 2004 as "Alaska Salmon Week". This proclamation will recognize the salmon industry as a huge part of all Alaskan's lives and raise public awareness of one of Alaska's most important industries by promoting and celebrating the catching and eating of salmon.

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