Friday April 17, 2026 

Dave Colker, Executive Director VCCFA

Executive Summary – Weekly Activities (Ending April 17, 2026)

This past week was highly active across advocacy, organizational development, and project advancement for the Ventura County Commercial Fishermen’s Association (VCCFA), with a strong focus on Marine Protected Area (MPA) engagement, governance initiatives, and harbor-based infrastructure and market development.

MPA Advocacy and Representation remained the top priority. Leadership actively participated in multiple high-level meetings, including Tribal Committee discussions and California Fish and Game Commission sessions on April 15–16, where formal comments were made highlighting critical gaps in socioeconomic analysis and effort displacement considerations within current petition evaluations. Preparations intensified for the upcoming May 5–6 in-person regional meetings in Santa Barbara, including the creation and distribution of outreach materials, member communications, and coordinated attendance planning.

Organizational coordination and member engagement progressed steadily. The May 3 Member Meeting agenda was finalized and distributed, incorporating key topics such as MPA petitions, upcoming events, and governance updates. Planning also advanced for the Annual In-Person Election Meeting and the 3rd Annual Beach Day (scheduled for August 9), with efforts underway to expand participation through volunteer committees. Board continuity planning moved forward with election preparations and onboarding of a Ventura Port representative.

Strategic government and policy initiatives gained traction. The effort to reestablish the Ventura County Fish and Wildlife Commission continues to progress positively, with engagement from Supervisor Vianey Lopez’s office and ongoing coordination with the Santa Barbara Fish and Wildlife Commission to obtain bylaws and structural guidance. This initiative is moving from exploratory discussion into early framework development.

Infrastructure and funding initiatives advanced across multiple fronts. Engagement with the California Coastal Conservancy continued, focusing on identifying critical commercial fishing infrastructure needs in Channel Islands Harbor, including ice production, hoist capacity, and modernization of waterfront facilities. Early-stage planning for funding proposals is underway. Additionally, grant funding opportunities remain active, with anticipation of a decision on the South Bay Cable Fisheries Liaison Committee grant.

Harbor-specific projects and industry partnerships showed meaningful progress. The Weekly Fishermen’s Market initiative continues to move forward through committee work, while collaboration with Fishermen’s Catch is strengthening local seafood marketing and direct-to-consumer opportunities. Discussions with Karls Village regarding wharf and hoist management, as well as redevelopment coordination, are ongoing and expected to be a key topic in the upcoming member meeting.

Outreach and visibility efforts expanded. Social media activity increased, including targeted promotion of MPA meetings and organizational growth efforts. New member additions and continued dues collection reflect steady membership engagement and growth.

Overall Summary

This week demonstrated strong momentum in advocacy, particularly around MPA petitions, while simultaneously advancing long-term strategic initiatives including governance restoration, infrastructure development, and market expansion. The organization is well-positioned heading into the critical May regional meetings, with coordinated messaging, active participation, and growing member engagement.