Interview with Stacy Vega, Bristol Bay’s Egegik/Ugashik management biologist

Interview with Stacy Vega, Bristol Bay’s Egegik/Ugashik management biologist

For a feature on our Bristol Bay Sockeye Salmon brand’s social media account @bristolbaysockeyesalmon during women’s moth in March, BBRSDA’s marketing & creative manager Aubrey McNeil interviewed Stacy Vega, Bristol Bay’s Egegik/Ugashik management biologist about the job, her trajectory and the amazing fishery.

When did you first become involved in the ADFG, and specifically Bristol Bay?

I have worked for ADF&G for almost 10 years. I got my first commercial fisheries biologist position in Cordova after graduating with my master’s degree from UAF in 2015. I moved from Prince William Sound to Bristol Bay in 2019 when I became the lead for our baywide sampling program and inriver test fishing projects out of the King Salmon office. I have held 6 different management and research positions in the commercial fisheries division, most recently transitioning to the new Egegik/Ugashik Management biologist this year. Since really focusing on fisheries after college, it was always a goal of mine to work in Bristol Bay because it is the benchmark for sustainably managed fisheries on the grandest scale.

In your eyes, what is it that makes Bristol Bay so special and/or sustainable?

Simply put, Bristol Bay is the most untouched salmon habitat you can find in the world. These systems are dynamic, resilient, and complex, but also “simple” in that they have sustained healthy populations for thousands of years and a commercial fishery for almost 150 years. The large returns we have seen in recent past are a testament to how the Bay has withstood change and flourished because of it. To be fair, the fish do a lot of the work and make it easy on management because they have adapted to withstand countless variables during their lifecycles.

What is your fun fact about Bristol Bay you like to share with people?

Pretty simple- it’s the largest sockeye salmon fishery in the world! Common knowledge for many but it still amazes me every day.

What is your favorite part of your role (and/or what are you looking forward to in this new role this upcoming season)?

Getting to have a hand in the sustainable management of the largest sockeye salmon fishery in the world is something I take great pride in. I really look forward to seeing what new and interesting twists each season brings. The summer seasons in the King Salmon office are so dynamic and fast-paced. I love the challenges each day brings, and I really love the people I get to work with every day, inside and outside of the Department. I enjoy seeing the constant flow of information and real time data we can use to manage the districts tide by tide. This year will be a bit different for me, as I will be sitting in the manager’s seat for the first time, but luckily much else will remain the same.

What do you wish more people knew about your/ADFG’s role in Bristol Bay?

I have overseen many assessment projects during my time with ADF&G. From each individual scale that our technicians pluck, to the fin clips we collect for genetic testing, even the most basic parts of what we do have such a huge impact on our understanding of these stocks and ability to manage them. It’s so much more than counting fish! The hard work of every single field/lab technician and biologist is something I believe deserves more of the spotlight.

How do you feel about being the first woman to manage a commercial fishery in Bristol Bay?

There have been a number of women who have managed commercial, sport, subsistence, and wildlife resources across this amazing state and I am honored to get to be a part of that growing list. Managing in Bristol Bay is something that I had my sights on since moving to Alaska and getting the opportunity is something I don’t take for granted, and I hope to be successful in the role.

Any leaders or trailblazers that have inspired you? Any women in particular?

I was a huge fan of Jane Goodall growing up as a girl that loved the natural world. As I progressed through school and career, there have been countless people including professors, colleagues, and friends that have shown me that hard work and a bit of confidence is all it takes to push through whatever obstacles (real or imagined) are in front of women in male-dominated fields. In all honesty, the women I have worked with during my time in the Department are some of the strongest, most badass people I know and I’m grateful to have them as role models in work and life.

What is a favorite memory you’ve made throughout your time with ADFG/ in the Bay?

In 2022 when we hit the all-time harvest record and were projecting to surpass the total run record, I got to make the announcement over the radio with my 6-month-old strapped to my chest, who was playing with the radio cord and distracting me. That will always be a special moment for me to look back on.

What is your favorite way to eat Bristol Bay Sockeye?

Because my kid loves them so much, the current go-to is a panko fried salmon fish stick dipped in tartar sauce. My personal favorite is the Bristol Bay managers’ special recipe Tim Sands has pioneered. Shallot pepper is the secret (not so secret) ingredient!

Outside of work, what are you up to?

I love being in or near water whenever possible- fishing, floating, swimming, snorkeling, etc. are all things I love to do when time allows. I have golfed most of my life, so enjoy that when I get the chance. I am a competitive curler in the wintertime and I have recently taken up triathlon training/competing.

Thank you, Stacy! Good luck this season!