Menhaden Cap - Down Load Files of Letter and Addendum 2

[Stolen_Deals]

Guys and Girls,

I had the opportunity to attend the recent meeting at PRFC in Colonial Beach, VA regarding the proposed Cap on the Menhaden Reduction FLeet. I am providing links to 1) a download file (pdf) of ASMFC's Addendum 2 of the proposed Menhaden Cap and 2) a link of the letter that I am personally sending into ASMFC. This letter should only serve as an example but may be of assistance should you have the interest in providing your own letter.

I encourage you to read the Addendum regarless of your position on this matter as it provides fairly good insight into the perceived problem and the options on the table that are being considered. Obviously not all support this Cap and I respect their right to their opinions. best wishes down South and I hope it is cooler there than here on Cobb Island, MD. If the links don't work (not done this before), please copy and paste into your browser.

Jim (Instigator)

http://instigator.pxinet.com/PRAC_Menhaden_Cap_071405.doc

http://instigator.pxinet.com/draftAddendumIIforPublicComment.pdf

[riverwatcher]

Thanks for attending the meeting and providing the information. I couldn't get your links to open on my computer, but I did find the info on the ASMFC web site (www.asmfc.org).
I agree completely that the entire Addendum (33 pages) should be read as it provides a description of the perceived problem of potential localized depletion of the menhaden fishery within the Bay, provides a number of options (including no cap on landings), and asks for public input. Interestingly, it also summarizes various states' regulations that have basically closed the purse seining operations and pushed the reduction industry (Omega) into Virginia and North Carolina. It also states that the percentage caught within the Bay has increased from 47% in the period from 1985-1995 to 58% during the period of 1996-2004.
I support a cap within the Bay based on either a 3-year or 5-year Bay average while the two-year ASMFC study is being conducted and I will be forwarding my comments to ASMFC.

[Stolen_Deals]

Riverwatcher,

Thanks for the reply and glad to see you were able to find the Addendum. I feel that it is very important to have a much data on this subject and to be informed. The links are working now so I am not sure why they went away for awhile.

Jim (Instigator)