Whaling Quotas Increased for Alaska Eskimos

The International Whaling Commission yesterday approved extending bowhead whaling quotas for Alaska Eskimos for subsistence hunting.

The 76-nation commission voted by consensus to allow 280 bowhead whales to be taken over a five-year period, ending in 2012. A majority of those, 260 bowheads, are reserved for Alaska natives in 10 villages, with 20 bowheads granted to Russians.

The five-year extension received the support of Japan, which is also trying to secure quotas for some of its coastal communities.

"Consistency is the keyword in this discussion," said Joji Morishita, the alternate IWC commissioner for Japan.

Japan has long sought "community whaling" status, which would give it quotas under provisions similar to those that allow Alaska natives and other indigenous groups to hunt the mammals. It was not immediately clear when the IWC would take up Japan's request.

Harvesting whales is considered a sacred accomplishment by many of an estimated 5,000 Alaska Eskimos who heavily rely on the meat to fill their tables. Ceremonial dances are held to bless the hunts and successful harvests prompt village celebrations where the meat is cut up and distributed.

The meeting continues through tomorrow.