Meet Elizabeth Herendeen

BBRSDA works with a coalition of other entities in our advocacy against the proposed Pebble Mine. Elizabeth and colleagues at Salmon State dedicate a portion of their time to a BBRSDA project maintaining strong engagement from Bristol Bay fishermen which is a vital part of the coalition. Elizabeth has been a steadfast advocate working with the seafood supply chain to stop the Pebble Mine since 2006. During that time, she worked for BBRSDA, Trout Unlimited, and presently SalmonState. Her work has included coordinating media and chef trips to Bristol Bay, meetings with the White House during both the Obama and Trump Administrations, outreach and communications with members of Congress, organizing stakeholders, and presenting at events.

BBRSDA Marketing Director, Lilani Dunn asks Elizabeth Herendeen about her connection to salmon.

How did you get involved with seafood/Alaska?

That’s a good question considering I’m from Virginia and the only fish I caught while growing up were smallmouth bass and crappies. I’m not sure if it was luck or fate, but during college I did an internship for a conservation organization in Washington DC where I was tasked with a summer project researching the Pacific Salmon Treaty. That project led to a thesis which gave me the excuse to visit Alaska and see a wild salmon for the first time in person. I knew then as I stood on the muddy stream bank and watched several sockeye struggling upstream that I wanted to do everything that I could to protect these incredible fish and help other people realize just how special (and delicious) wild salmon are.

What is your favorite way to enjoy Bristol Bay Sockeye at home?

My favorite way to enjoy Bristol Bay Sockeye at home is by inviting a bunch of friends over and putting a few beautiful whole fillets on the grill (I like to wrap them in foil with a little Alaska sea salt sprinkled on top). I think that simple is best with Bristol Bay Sockeye and sharing it with others makes it that much better.

What do you enjoy most about your work (related to BBRSDA)?

Hands down it’s the fishermen I’ve gotten to know over the years and am grateful to now call dear friends. I love getting to hear everyone’s stories whether it's the greenest greenhorn or the veteran about to fish their 40th season. While everyone’s story is so different, everyone's passion for Bristol Bay is universal and is what keeps me motivated to fight day after day for protection of Bristol Bay.

Tell us more about yourself outside of seafood. What do you enjoy doing (indoors/outdoors).

When I’m not trying to stop the Pebble Mine, you’ll either find me out running on a trail with my trusty canine, Keta, or in the kitchen baking pastries for family and friends.