Oregon shrimpers snare seal of approval. (Oregon Live)

Oregon’s pink shrimp industry on Thursday became the first shrimp fishery in the world to receive a sustainability stamp of approval from the Marine Stewardship Council, an international nonprofit that promotes responsible fishing practices.

The certification from the independent council could bolster Oregon’s reputation as a leader in sustainable resource management and help boost an industry hurt by fierce competition from Canadian and Norwegian imports, industry and state leaders said at a morning news conference.