Everett Nack

Location of Interview
Collection Name

The Hudson River Maritime Museum’s Hudson River Commercial Fishermen’s Oral History Collection

Description

The Hudson River Maritime Museum’s Hudson River Commercial Fishermen’s Oral History Collection consists of interviews with commercial fishermen conducted in the early 1980s and early 1990s. Locations discussed range from New York City to Albany and time periods from the 1920s to the 1990s. The focus of these interviews is primarily on the decline of the commercial fishing industry, including changes in fishing techniques and gear, changes in water quality and pollution, economic and market changes, and changes in fishing populations, including government regulation. 

Content note: Some of the terminology used in these interviews reflects the time period and personalities of the people being interviewed and not that of the Hudson River Maritime Museum or New York Heritage.

You can explore this collection and others at: https://nyheritage.org/collections/oral-histories-hudson-river-commercial-fishermen

Date of Interview
12-21-1991
12-20-1998
Audio
Abstract

On December 21, 1991, Everett Nack was interviewed about his extensive experience with fishing in the Hudson River. The discussion covers the history and techniques of fishing for various species, including shad, sturgeon, and carp, and addresses environmental challenges affecting fish populations and water quality. Nack describes the role of state conservation efforts, the use of fishing equipment, and his observations on the decline of native species linked to pollution and habitat changes. He reflects on the economic and ecological impacts of these shifts, highlighting issues such as policy decisions, restocking efforts, and the relationship between commercial fishing practices and river health.

On December 20, 1998, Everett Nack was interviewed for an oral history project. In this interview, Nack reflects on his extensive experiences with environmental conservation and commercial fishing, particularly focusing on the Hudson River. He discusses efforts to manage chlorine pollution in the river, the impact of environmental regulations on aquatic life, and his advocacy for improved water quality. Nack describes the challenges faced by fishermen due to pollution and policy changes, including the decline in species such as sturgeon and muskrats. He also shares observations about the Hudson River's ecological changes and the complexities of balancing conservation efforts with the livelihoods of local fishermen. The conversation includes references to state-level policy discussions, the implementation of UV systems for water treatment, and the broader implications of chlorine use on both river health and human well-being.


Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out  Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc.  The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry. 

The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.

Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.