In what is being viewed as a landmark decision, the North Pacific Fishery Management Council from Anchorage, Alaska has voted unanimously to ban commercial fishing in the entire Arctic Ocean, from Canada to the Bering Strait. The Council spent two years creating a management plan that would control the influx of fishing fleets to protect this fragile environment from potential harm.

In March Golden Year 6 (2009), to recognize the enlightened leadership in conserving the ecological systems of the Arctic, Supreme Master Ching Hai presented the North Pacific Fishery Management Council with the “Shining World Leadership Award.” A letter of admiration and a beautiful plaque were sent to Mr. Chris Oliver, Executive Director of North Pacific Fishery Management Council. In an interview on East Coast FM Radio, Supreme Master Ching Hai expressed Her full support of fishing bans and the vegetarian diet to preserve our interconnected ecosystems.

Our most sincere thanks to you, North Pacific Fishery Management Council, for your leadership in safeguarding our oceans and the lives within them. We pray noble actions such as yours will inspire many more for the sustainable future of our shared global home.