All menhaden bills killed in house

[tonydivefish]

that's pretty much the whole story. ps the paper says the one remaining bill schduled for monday has a "remote chance".

[Kevin Smith]

Tony,

For the end result to change there needs to be an indepth long term plan. Unfortunately the current CCA VA President and Vice President are not willing to put together a long term plan. Hopefully some day that will change.

For anything to change Virginia's anglers need to be a lot more involved and that is why we put together the Menhaden Coalition in early 2010. Hopefully this coalition will grow and start to lead the fight to help protect this valuable resource from overfishing.

Thanks for posting this.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

[n2striper]

The mighty dollar ruled again. Very sad new.

[capehaze]

Yeah, lobby money talks!

Woody

[Brandon]

Kevin summed it up. I commend CCA VA's passion around the effort, however without a comprehensive plan we're not going to get the bills through this year or even next because we're not playing on an even playing field. We should not expect things to change when those on the legislative committees in the state house and senate have accepted contributions from Omega. To think we'd get different results is sticking our head in the sand. When we have an even playing field we'll have a chance, until then well, we're just making noise and hoping. I am not being pessimistic about the chances of ever getting it changed, just expressing what we as the recreational angling community need to do to actually have a chance of even winning.

You can check out the Menhaden Coalition Website (http://www.SaveMenhaden.org) for details and updates on what is going on.

[Getaway]

If someone could put together a list of the delegates that voted down or tabled the bills, maybe at election time we could repost the listing so that we could vote against those delegates in our individual districts.

[PLAYIN' HOOKIE]

Tony,

For the end result to change there needs to be an indepth long term plan. Unfortunately the current CCA VA President and Vice President are not willing to put together a long term plan. Hopefully some day that will change.

For anything to change Virginia's anglers need to be a lot more involved and that is why we put together the Menhaden Coalition in early 2010. Hopefully this coalition will grow and start to lead the fight to help protect this valuable resource from overfishing.

Thanks for posting this.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

Kevin,
I don't know how you can expect anyone to want to join an organization that cannot even get their President and Vice President to come up with a plan... If it is a burden, they should step down!

[Kevin Smith]

I have always encouraged folks to become more involved in speaking up for the fisheries of the Chesapeake Bay by joining the CCA VA, RFA, Menhaden Coalition, etc. My hope is that if more people were to join these various organizations, it will help these organizations become stronger/effective/efficient, it should help make it easier to implement a quality long term plan, they will eventually win some battles and eventually win the protection of Menhaden from overfishing.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress

NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

[Sea Gristle]

I applaud CCAVA's continued efforts on the Menhaden issue, but I reached the conclusion awhile back that CCAVA or the National Org, is not capable of leading, much less winning, this battle. Long-term or not. IMO the 2 biggest impediments are 1) CCA's 501c non-profit status which keeps them from directly using funds to influence and/or elect pro-menhaden legislators; and 2) CCA National's Texas business relationships. It's gonna take a Political Action Committee with major financial backing to get the votes needed to get these bills out of committee. Sucks, but it's the American Way.

[flight risk]

This is a radical approach and only a mere suggestion. The CCA needs the SELC on their side. Yes the commie radical stupid f's that have closed much of Hatteras seashore to ORV use. Fight fire with fire. I personally don't like anyone who messes with my right to drive on the beach. But desperate times need desperate measures. CCA you getting this loud and clear?

The Bay is in the top ten Southeastern sites they are hoping to preserve. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer! They will bring Omega to their knees - Obviously, dialogue has to be started with these enviro whacko tree hugging freaks for this simple radical approach to happen though.

[memorymaker3]

cant say im surprised

[Capt. Skid]

Flight Risk has the right idea!!!
Who would have thought that that the bird lovers would have won out in Hatteras???

Capt.Skid

[SaltyJB]

The fate of coastal menhaden rests with the Atlantic States Menhaden Fisheries Commission ... not the General Assembly, not the VMRC. The ASMFC is where the game is being played, and CCA, the Menhaden Coalition, and other multi-state conservation groups are thoroughly engaged at that level. The ASMFC has finally acknowledged the precipitous decline of coastal menhaden (down 88% since 1984 to a historic low), and the Menhaden Technical Committee is currently considering new reference points (e.g. proper % Maximum Spawning Potential and mortality) that will allow the coastal stock some relief from the reduction fishery. The next meeting is in March.

As for menhaden legislation at the General Assembly, the twin bills put forth by CCA VA (SB765/HB2280) proposed to simply shift the responsibility for implementing the ASMFC's interstate fisheries management plan for menhaden from the VGA to VMRC. With or without those bills, Virginia will be required to implement any mandates from the ASMFC.

Omega Protein is well established at the General Assembly. Years of lobbying and donations have given them a lock on just enough legislators to block most any bill that contains the word "menhaden." Governor McDonnell has received $55,744 from Omega in the last several years; members of the House Chesapeake subcommittee all have received donations from $250 to $1250 during the same time frame (however not all of those opposed the menhaden "transfer" bills). Here is a link to a website that shows donations to VGA members: http://www.vpap.org/legislators

Failure of the menhaden bills in the General Assembly had nothing to do with CCA not having a long term plan. Menhaden Coalition members and our lobbyists effectively presented our case to the legislators on SB765/HB2280. We met with administration officials (Sec. of Natural Resources) and explained the simple objective of the legislation. Unfortunately, once the administration put "the word" out, none of the bills stood a chance.

The menhaden fight is at the ASMFC. Those wishing to participate are welcome.

[rj]

The fate of coastal menhaden rests with the Atlantic States Menhaden Fisheries Commission ... not the General Assembly, not the VMRC. The ASMFC is where the game is being played, and CCA, the Menhaden Coalition, and other multi-state conservation groups are thoroughly engaged at that level. The ASMFC has finally acknowledged the precipitous decline of coastal menhaden (down 88% since 1984 to a historic low), and the Menhaden Technical Committee is currently considering new reference points (e.g. proper % Maximum Spawning Potential and mortality) that will allow the coastal stock some relief from the reduction fishery. The next meeting is in March.

As for menhaden legislation at the General Assembly, the twin bills put forth by CCA VA (SB765/HB2280) proposed to simply shift the responsibility for implementing the ASMFC's interstate fisheries management plan for menhaden from the VGA to VMRC. With or without those bills, Virginia will be required to implement any mandates from the ASMFC.

Omega Protein is well established at the General Assembly. Years of lobbying and donations have given them a lock on just enough legislators to block most any bill that contains the word "menhaden." Governor McDonnell has received $55,744 from Omega in the last several years; members of the House Chesapeake subcommittee all have received donations from $250 to $1250 during the same time frame (however not all of those opposed the menhaden "transfer" bills). Here is a link to a website that shows donations to VGA members: http://www.vpap.org/legislators

Failure of the menhaden bills in the General Assembly had nothing to do with CCA not having a long term plan. Menhaden Coalition members and our lobbyists effectively presented our case to the legislators on SB765/HB2280. We met with administration officials (Sec. of Natural Resources) and explained the simple objective of the legislation. Unfortunately, once the administration put "the word" out, none of the bills stood a chance.

The menhaden fight is at the ASMFC. Those wishing to participate are welcome.

some confusing information there

from the ASFMC techinal comitee's addendum IV (2009)
Virginia’s legislature, which meets January


through March each year, is responsible for regulating the menhaden reduction fishery in state


waters."


ASMFC controls the harvest cap, the states regulate the harvest ,,many states do not alow or heavily regulate,the comercial harvest of Menhaden for the reduction industry,,Virginia could be one of them

[Harlan seller]

crazyloco
lobby $ wins out again over reason

[Tinsquid]

You can criticize CCA all day long, but they are the organization and that puts in the effort on the state and national level. By and large this is post is just finger pointing and frustration. And Kevin, I think you held the post of president for CCA VA.

[Getaway]

The ballot box is the only effective answer to this issue!!! Vote out each and every state senator or delegate that does not support protecting the menhadden by eliminating the taking of those fish in the chesapeake bay.

[Kevin Smith]

This post is all about the alarming state of the Menhaden Stocks on the East Coast and the negative impact it is having on stripers and the other sport fish that we love to fish for. This post is also about the serious challenges we all face in making a difference and the frustration we feel about the recent bills that were stopped in committee. From my humble point of view these challenges and frustrations include our representatives in Richmond seemingly selling out the health of the Chesapeake Bay Fisheries for political donations by one company, the dire need for all of Virginia's Saltwater Anglers & the related industries to get involved in this important issue, the lack of a serious long term plan by one of the many organizations that should be best suited to help fight this battle, the lack of team work among the various organizations that should be working together closely on this issue, etc..

My dream is that some day all of Virginia's anglers will stand up for this important resource, they will become involved in the organizations that can help make a difference, the influx of talented members will help make these organization much more accountable to their members, their sponsors & Virginia's anglers, these organizations will then work together for the benefit of the resource, our representatives in Richmond will hear our voices and they will do what is right for this fantastic fishery we all enjoy.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

[SaltyJB]

A number of angling clubs are involved in the effort to restore menhaden.
They have donated to the lobbying expense for the menhaden transfer bills (SB765/HB2280).
Some have also expressed interest in becoming involved at the upcoming ASMFC hearings.

In addition to CCA VA's donation, and numerous individual donations, the following angling groups have contributed:
Stripers Forever
Portsmouth Anglers Club
Northampton County Anglers' Club
Friends of the Rappahannock
Virginia Beach Angling Club
Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association
Peninsula Salt Water Sports Fishing Association
Hopewell Saltwater Anglers
Virginia Anglers Club
We have also received great support from Dr. Allen of the Virginia Council Of Angling Clubs.

[Sea Gristle]

Lobbying elected officials without campaign donations is like singing to a deaf person: it LOOKS like you're doing something, but the message ain't getting through.

Actually, if the ASFMC DOES pass some more restrictive measures in March, and the VGA isn't in session, maybe that's a good thing. Make 'em all come back to town. Then maybe they'll see the wisdom in letting the VMRC manage menhaden. Of course McDonald has the authority to act while they're out. Wouldn't that be a kick in Omega's pants. Time will tell.

[gunsmoke]

i guess it's my falt, i voted for that gov; didn,t know he was a back-sliding, lying, low-life, money worshiping whore, but he is a politician and he damm sure isn't gettin my vote or anyone i can convince again. sorry ches; bay.

[DonQx]

Any politician, especially on today's playing field, is effectively "cutting his own throat" if he proposes, or votes for, anything that will result in a loss of jobs.
Okay, I've heard all this before, your response is "Well, what about all the money and jobs in the recreational fishing industry that are being lost by the so-called decline in the rockfish population"?
Let's suppose for a moment that you are right about this. If so, why aren't the powerful Hospitality and Tourism lobbies investing significant effort in your agenda? With dollars...not talk.
I submit that it isn't as large a factor as you may think.

[SaltyJB]

The menhaden transfer bills (SB765/HB2280) have nothing to do with jobs. The bill gives VMRC the authority to implement ASMFC fisheries management plans for menhaden ... nothing else. The ASMFC's directives are mandatory. Virginia has to comply. Unless the transfer bills are passed, the General Assembly will have the awkward task of trying to implement, at a time they will almost surely not be in session.

[Sea Gristle]

Aw c'mon JB, it's ALWAYS been about the jobs; the reduction fleet's, the Reedville plant, Al Pollard's and all the other legislator's jobs, paid for with menhaden meal and fish oil. Oh yeah, the lobbyists are gettin' fat too.

True, the ASMFC doesn't care about jobs...but until they prove without a doubt that decline of menhaden in the Bay is the primary cause of the decline of rockfish, they're not going to do anything NEAR what is needed -- a total ban on reduction fishing in Bay waters.

[Sea Gristle]

why aren't the powerful Hospitality and Tourism lobbies investing significant effort in your agenda? With dollars...not talk.

Maybe if there were billions of dead pogies washing up at VA Beach. But Reedville ain't a big tourism destination (and the smell Omega puts out guarantees it will never be) and somebody would have to show the pretty big correlation between the decline of menhaden and the decline of tourism for the Boat manufacturers, marinas and bait shops to have any standing. Oh, and a $hitload of money to throw at it.

[obeasl]

To the anglers of Virginia:

As an outdoor writer I do my best to do research on any topic before taking it on.If I don't, I risk my reputation and credibility, something I simply won't do for anyone. While the issue of menhaden management will be a hard nut to crack we can surely move forward for the benefit of all with facts.

I read Kevin Smith's comments and agree fully with him that those concerned need a plan where the average everyday angler sees he has some skin in this game. I take issue however with throwing sand on the CCA's President David Nobels, or the Vice President Jerry Benson (who incidentally was just honored with a conservations award from the Fly Fishers of Virginia for his attempts to bring the issue of menhaden management to hand) for a lack of leadership or for having a plan.

As an outdoor writer I get e-mails and press releases all the time from various organizations and in the last year I have gotten dozens of e-mails from CCA- Virginia about this issue. No other organization even comes remotely close. I have seen both the President and Vice President at multiple shows around the state talking up this issue and conservation issues facing Virginia's saltwater issues a whole. I also know both of these men have traveled to Richmond multiple times to meet with law makers, donated hundreds of volunteer hours of their personal time on chapter banquets, given hundreds if not thousands of dollars over the years in personal funds, and written dozens of e-mails and letters to state delegates and state senators on this issue.

Their thanks for all this work seems to be getting maligned by some of the very folks that should be helping them.

If their is blame for execution, and I believe there is, the blame lies at the feet of that complain but do little to be involved. We as anglers need to be in touch with out legislators and informing our unengaged brother anglers that need to get involved.

The current leadership of CCA-VA may not be perfect but they seem to be working their butts off from where I'm standing and we need more people pulling on the oars with them and less people complaining about what's not getting done. Just for the record I am a member of CCA-Virginia but hold no office. I'm just the average Joe who wants to see the resource managed by the correct authorities.

One last thing. I believe if we want to reach out to politicians of any stripe, (especially those we don't agree with on certain issues) I think we need to be much more accurate and professional in our statements. Referring the the Chief Executive Officer of our state (or any state) as a "money worshiping whore" is the perfect example of what NOT to say. If we are reasoned citizens with a worthy issues let's bring it forward like men, not children on a playground.

Last but not least you would be surprised what fear and influence does to anyone. I am sad to say that MULTIPLE magazines that I write for would not even consider taking an article on menhaden management because it was "too politically charged". These are the same magazines you read and see that tout the need for good conservation. Trust me fella's this is a big league issue and if we are going to take it on it must be done with facts an in an organized way.

We each can contribute something the question is what are you willing to contribute except gripping? This question is not directed at anyone in particular and it just as applicable to me as anyone else.

Just my 2 cents worth.

Beau Beasley

[Rock crusher]

This is a radical approach and only a mere suggestion. The CCA needs the SELC on their side. Yes the commie radical stupid f's that have closed much of Hatteras seashore to ORV use. Fight fire with fire. I personally don't like anyone who messes with my right to drive on the beach. But desperate times need desperate measures. CCA you getting this loud and clear?

The Bay is in the top ten Southeastern sites they are hoping to preserve. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer! They will bring Omega to their knees - Obviously, dialogue has to be started with these enviro whacko tree hugging freaks for this simple radical approach to happen though.

Sounds logical to me but don't complain if you can't fish for ANYTHING in the bay after they get involved!

[CaptBeach]

Maybe its time to blockade the docks at Reedsville again...I aint been arrested in a while...

[SaltyJB]

Something to remember:
Omega Protein is engaged in a legal business. The problem is with regulators who will not regulate. Hopefully the ASMFC is starting to recognize an inescapable conclusion. They must act to restore a menhaden population that has declined 88% in the last 25 years to a historic low.

Now how many of you are willing to come to the next ASMFC Menhaden Management Board meeting in Alexandria ... probably on Mar 22 or 23?

[Brandon]

My following points are not directed at anyone or any group. What we, (I mean all of us that care about conserving menhaden so we have them for the future for all the reasons we already know) need is a truly comprehensive plan to win. Anything short of a comprehensive plan will assure that we get the same results we have been getting for the last ten or however many years. The bills in the VA legislature were bound to fail, all anyone had to do is look at who chairs the committees and who took contributions from Omega. Without being on par with Omega, or any opponent on any issue, you are at a disadvantage even before you start. I will add that this issue is not just about the VA Legislature and moving management to VMRC, at the end of the day the real authority resides at the ASMFC.

In the case of the VA legislature issues with the bills that have been killed, I am not commenting on whether the political system is good or bad, it is what it is, and at least we know what it is. Giving money to people in politics is not a bad thing because if your opponent can do it it means you can too. But in order to do that you/we have to be organized with a master plan. Anything short of a comprehensive plan is in my opinion not worth the effort. I, like everyone, only has so much time to invest in fisheries conservation issues and if I/you are going to invest the time we should do so in a way that allows us for the best chance of success. There are a lot of smart people and groups around the table, what it will take is putting everything that does not matter aside and aligning on one goal, building a comprehensive plan and everyone executing on his/her part.

The Menhaden Coalition (http://www.SaveMehanden.org)is a very good start towards bringing everyone together to address the issue. I think it's a good entity because the main goal of the entity is to put itself out of business. It has one mission, save menhaden. It took a while to get everyone together, now that people are together we need some leaders to emerge who can help coordinate a comprehensive plan.

I will get off the soapbox now :soapbox:rant2:))

[DonQx]

Lots of concern around here about which government agencies should be regulating what.
Wake up and smell the political roses, gents. You might better spend your time worrying about which agencies will get "axed" altogether.
The problems of a little smelly, greasy fish don't amount to much when stacked up against all the other stuff on our plate.
Honestly, now. Do really think you're going to get any politician to pay much attention to your plight during times like these?
Conservation??
There is a serious movement gaining ground daily to eliminate the EPA!
You think the ASMFC won't eventually be on the same chopping block?

[27 sailfish]

Real thing to do is to get the Va. governor's next challenger involved. Like him or not - get every fishing club to back him.

Get some juicy TV / radio ads - pointing out how Omega has been pushed out of all but two states on east coast.

Be sure to show up at every public meeting and throw out questions about Omega donating cash.
Show some real skinny Rockfish - then zoom in to Omega's fleet with full nets.

It's sad when the politics stink worse then the bait.

[MuddyGut]

27 Sailfish, Kevin Smith, Brandon’s and others have all hit on the same 2 themes which basically are:

1st: We need a clear direction from an organization to spearhead this issue for us to support both financially and through being an active player. As I a member of CCA and I also signed up for e-mails on the Menhaden Coalition Website, I rec’d info from both of them on the latest 5 menhaden bills and I, in turn, sent e-mails and letters to members of the General Assembly for the ones I supported. Both of these organizations are trying to do what they can but it takes “time” and “money”. When one of these groups ask you for $ for support think about what you spent for baits and gas last year. If you have time then offer that as well.

2nd: We need to enlist the support of everyone we know so that we build up a coalition of people that the legislators can’t ignore. As was said before legislatures respond to money but they also respond to numbers. My sending 5 e-mails and a couple letters to members of the General Assembly means little or nothing but if they get thousands of responses they will then pay attention.

I think there is room for both the CCA and the Menhaden Coalition on this issue as 2 organizations will produce 2 methodologies’ to get the job done. Everyone needs to do their part to sign up with these groups and get 25 of your best friends to do the same.

Brandon, do you know approximately how many people that are on Tidal Fish are associated with the Chesapeake watershed. I’m thinking that would be a lot of e-mails and letters.

[Kevin Smith]

Muddy Gut,

You obviously got the message. Thanks for sharing your take on this very hot topic!

Well said!

Kevin
Weekend Mistress

[Matt]

Every year it seems like fishing clubs take another wild swing at this piñata to little avail. And like clockwork the ensuing discussion talks around the issue. The issue is jobs. Menhaden related jobs are very important to the northern neck economy. Without omega there's not much to keep food on people's table around Reedville. In my opinion the issue is similar to many many issues before it. Mining, steel production, numerous industries have been changed, curtailed or completely shut down because of some negative environmental component. Unfortunately, someone has to prove environmental wrongdoing in court before any legislator will concede jobs in their district. Does anyone have any menhaden evidence worthy of a serious legal debate? If so, step up to the plate. If not, I would not count on changing this industry. The other way to go after an undesirable operation like omega is to diversify their local economy. Bring in some kind of S&T industry that would populate that area with enough educated people who are willing to fight the fight. Most of us don't have enough skin in the game to take this on seriously. If we're thinking ASMFC is going to fix this...I recommend not holding your breath on that one. ASMFC can't even competently manage striped bass.

[SaltyJB]

Multiple approaches are underway to restore menhaden, some public, some not. Most of the legislative and regulatory load is being carried by volunteers, some of whom devote nearly full time. Personal attacks, finger pointing, and arm chair quarterbacking from those standing on the sidelines are not productive. Their time would be better spent contacting their representatives in the General Assembly.

[27 sailfish]

I been to some ASMFC meetings.

Every fisherman needs to go - to see first hand how business is done there.
Then form their own opinion.

IMHO - It is a screwed up - greedy - dirty dealing group. Few folks there are OK but most just have a crooked vibe to them. Tough to explain.

[SaltyJB]

Each of 15 Atlantic states sends three reps to the ASMFC:
A legislative rep (Virginia Sen. Richard Stuart - newly appointed)
A Marine Resources Commission rep (VMRC Comm. Steve Bowman - proxy Jack Travelstead)
A fisheries rep appointed by the Governor. (Catherine Davenport from Northern Neck)

[Kevin Smith]

Sailfish 27,

Unfortunately the deck is stacked against the general public & Menhaden and there needs to be a serious plan with a budget and everyone needs to work together.

The Virginia Legislature Supposedly Manages Menhaden, Virginia's Governor Threatens to Veto Menhaden Legislation, Virginia's VMRC Is Run By Political Appointees, The ASMFC is Made Up of Political Appointees, Our Representatives to the ASMFC are Members of the Virginia Legislature.

An effective plan needs to include public education on a large scale, multi media advertising, town hall meetings around the state about Menhaden, mailings, phone campaigns, donations to politician from a PAC, working the halls of the legislature, attending VMRC & ASMFC meetings, possibly hiring a lobbyist, fund raising, etc, etc, etc. The sooner that someone puts a quality plan together, brings the various players together to form a team and gets things started the greater the chance of having some success. When Brandon & I came up with the Menhaden Coalition, we were hopeful it would eventually become serious organization that could bring pressure from outside and inside of Virginia. Unfortunately the Menhaden Coalition seems to have fallen into the CCA VA trap of great organizations with talented people, but no serious leadership and no plan. Hopefully that will change some day.

If anyone else is interested in meeting to discuss this further, I will be glad to attend.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

[Matt]

I like this thread because it highlights the lack of focus on jobs. Its the number one issue that needs to be addressed in a politically constructive fashion, and wrestled to the ground. I brought it up in my last post, and the very next post suggested armchair quarterbacking is not productive. You know what's not productive? Doing the same thing over and over with the same result. The issue is jobs. Omega represents the only real industry in a rural area that seriously lacks economic diversity. This kind of industry, no matter how undesirable, is hard to deal with. Regulators can't put them out of work. The legislature won't put them out of business. There's really only one other branch of govt to attack this problem. Do you have a court case or not. Thats a rhetorical question. In my opinion the only way to deal with this is to introduce new industry. Shift the jobs to something more sustainable. This is a politically viable recipe thats withstood the test of time. Unfortunately, this is a bad time to start up new industry anywhere, much less in a place as isolated as the NN.

[DonQx]

Excellent and reasoned post but won't carry much weight around here. It's easier to blame "crooked politicians" if they don't get what they want, when they want it. It's easier to wave the "corporate greed" flag eventhough we're talking about relatively small profit margins and, in truth, a wage slightly above the subsistence level for a few hundred people. It's easier and feels better to "rattle sabres" and make lofty threats to "blockade" a legitimate business enterprise engaged in lawful commerce.
That's, for the most part, who you're dealing with here.
(If the shoe doesn't fit, please don't wear it).

[KenG]

Given that most states won't allow this fishing in their waters and many of those that do have tight regulation because of the damage it causes. None of the justifications to support the fishing hold water. Jobs or no jobs. This isn't the first time in American history jobs have become obsolete and people have had to look for new work. Maybe if this fishery is brought under control the rest of the bay will restore itself and they can become crab or oyster fisherman. Look at the coal miners in West Virginia put out of work by technology. What is going on at Omega amounts to the rape of the the bay and any politician who supports it is as good as hold a person while it happens.

Stop the Madness

[fly flinger]

http://www.vpap.org/donors/profile/index/137690 Omega Protein uses our fi$h to fight us & the fish that depend on menhaden.

Campaign Contribution(s) Totaling $97,744
$25,000 McDonnell Inaugural Committee 2010
$25,000 Opportunity Virginia PAC
$4,744 McDonnell for Governor - Robert
$2,000 Pollard for Delegate - Albert
$1,000 Stuart for Senate - Richard
$500 Majority Whip PAC
$2,000 Ticer for Senate - Patricia

[27 sailfish]

Hard to believe it only takes about $100,000.00 in donations.

Maryland has about 100,000 licensed salt water anglers - take $1.00 from each and we could match Omega's donations.

Add in Va. anglers - might triple it.

One of my favorite things with the ASMFC - when a problem comes up , first thing is a study is needed. Study might take 2-3 years - great stall tactic.

[Matt]

Donations aren't the issue. Omega feeds a lot of families in one of the least economically diverse areas on the bay. Like it or not, there just isn't much going on around Reedville. In my opinion, this is a classic case of jobs versus the environment. Underestimating the economic AND political importance of those rural jobs is an option. Not a fruitful option, I think. If the govt closes down that fishery, or even curtails it slightly, every lost job is chargeable to the taxpayers of Virginia. Va's lawmakers know this. Va regulators know it. The simple truth is, we have laws that prevent govt from running people out of work. $100K won't buy you anything. A successful campaign will help lawmakers transition those fulltime jobs to something more sustainable.

[DonQx]

What would close the place quickly is a lack of demand for the product. But don't count on that. Most medical and nutritional organizations can't say enough about the positive effects of Omega-3 fish oil products and consumers can't get enough of it.

[Kevin Smith]

If Menhaden was properly managed (not by the Virginia Legislator) would they need to close the Reedville Omega Facility? There is a good chance it would not have to be closed.

Kevin
Weekend Mistres

[Matt]

with a striped bass debacle taking shape on ASMFC's resume, its hard to buy an argument that menhaden would be "managed" substantially different. At least the legislature doesn't claim to have some kind of expertise in managing fish. ASMFC doesn't have an excuse. Either way, the jobs in question need to be addressed. In my opinion, the face of this issue would change if there was a good highway from DC to the northern neck, such that the area could become populated and diversified. As it is today, the area is isolated in a way that Omega operates one of the foulest most disgraceful assaults on the environment most of us will ever lay eyes on. Put enough eyes on this, and the battleground would change. Get some other kinds of money into the area, and the economics change. When the Reedville area gets populated with people who object, this tone of this debate will change for sure.

[fly flinger]

What would close the place quickly is a lack of demand for the product. But don't count on that. Most medical and nutritional organizations can't say enough about the positive effects of Omega-3 fish oil products and consumers can't get enough of it.

Other sources of Omega 3 which does not require killing menhaden, stinking up a coastal town, and depriving sport fish of their forage:

Green leafy vegetables such as, spinach, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Legumes such as, pinto beans, kidney beans, black beans, and split peas.
Walnuts
Pumpkin seeds and flax
Berries such as, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries
Avocados.

[goose70]

Other sources of Omega 3 which does not require killing menhaden, stinking up a coastal town, and depriving sport fish of their forage:

Green leafy vegetables such as, spinach, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Legumes such as, pinto beans, kidney beans, black beans, and split peas.
Walnuts
Pumpkin seeds and flax
Berries such as, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries
Avocados.

These do not contain the same type of Omega 3 that you find in fish, I'm afraid. I was hoping it would be as simple as replacing fish oil with, say, flax seed, but was disappointed when I looked into it.

And therein lies the Catch-22. Fish and fish products are an important -- some would say critical -- part of the human diet. I do not want to see fish and fish products turned into a luxury food for a select few. But I also share your concern that most commercial netting and long-line methods quickly wipe out the fishery.

So, how do we continue our supply of things like reasonably priced fish, fish oil tablets, etc.? Aquaculture seems like the only long-term sollution, just as agriculture replaced hunting on land. Perhaps that's why we are now hitting the milestone of having more of the world's seafood from aquaculture than "wild caught." But in the meantime, the "fish oil pill" issue is also a major hurdle in addressing Omega Protien, Inc., since even those folks who appreciate the sustainability problems posed by Omega value their health and do not want to lose a major source of fish oil.

[Kevin Smith]

Omega 3 Oil isn't all they produce in Reedville. A substantial amount of the smaller Menhaden (peanut bunker) they catch inside the bay are ground up for feed such as: Industrial Chicken Farm Food, Aquaculture Feed, Other Animal Foods, Pet Foods, etc. The larger fish (not very many left in the bay) that give them OMEGA 3 oil to sell.

OMEGA'S reports say that in recent years they are catching just over half of the 105,000 metric tons cap in Virginia's portion of the Chesapeake Bay and that over 90% of what they catch inside the bay are immature smaller fish that have never spawned. That means that quadrillions of eggs (for each generation of Menhaden) never get a chance when these fish leave the bay to spawn off of Virginia & North Carolina in the winter.

Well over half of the Altantic Menhaden spawn move into the Chesapeake Bay annually (for about 3 seasons and they are ready to spawn) to feed and grow up. OMEGAs catch report indicate the average age of Menhaden inside of the bay is declining. Logic would seem to say that by killing off the future generations of Menhaden inside of the Chesapeake Bay OMEGA is slowly killing the entire Altantic Coast Menhaden Fishery and may be doing serious damage to other fisheries.

Therefore if the Virginia Legislature would actually manage Menhaden and not say hands off of where my campaign donations come from, if the ASMFC was not in bed with OMEGA they would force Virginia to manage Menhaden and if OMEGA would fish more outside of the Chesapeake By it would be a win in so many ways.

Win for the Menhaden
Win for the stripers
Win for grey trout
Win for the commercial fishermen
Win for the recreational anglers
Win of the Chesapeake Bay
Win for the fishing related businesses around the Chesapeake Bay
Win for Virginia's tax revenue because of increased revenue for more folks fishing in the Chesapeake Bay.
Win for OMEGA in Reedville by restoring Menhaden up and down the East Coast

Thought you may enjoy seeing this video of the ASMFC Executive Director, John O Shea defending OMEGA. (Even though in the spring of 2010 the ASMFC realizes there science is seriously flawed and the stocks are down 88% in the last 25 years)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1fAcwhqsYE

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
NO BAIT = NO FISH = NO FISHERMEN

[goose70]

Leaving aside the claims in the video, I am troubled to see Mr. O'Shea appear in a company commercial, as an ASMFC representative, endorsing that company's practices. For most public officials, appearing in such a PR piece in their official capacity would raise serious ethical concerns, especially regarding their susbsequent votes on matters impacting that industry.

[fly flinger]

Gov. Jim Webb announces the closure of the striped bass season for a 3rd year due to declining class year retention. Webb made this disclosure while cutting the ribbon to reopen the former Omega Protein factory in Reedville. The plant is now producing vodka for Home Depot, Target, Four Eyes, Bass Pro and other liquor outlets licensed under the McDonnel administration.

THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURNS IS NON-NEGOTIABLE

[Kevin Smith]

Goose70,

You are right. The video clearly shows the ASMFC has a serious conflict of interest with OMEGA at the top of their management team! Personally I think he should be fired, but would hate to see someone lose their job, when what they did is obviously acceptable to this superiors.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress

[27 sailfish]

Like I said - IMHO - ASMFC is dirty / corrupt.

Used to see huge schools of big Menhadden offshore. Not uncommon to find a school 4-5 miles - yes MILES - long by 1/4 mile wide.
Not just 1-2 but many during a long run offshore.

Have not seen that for years. Same with local rivers near Annapolis , Md. At sunset - the river came alive - little Menhadden as far as you could see.

I really question the benefits of an Omega 3 pill - wonder if there is any proof to all the claims.

[Kevin Smith]

Based on the OMEGA video with Mr. O Shea, Executive Director ASMFC as spoke person, I think he should step down or be fired. This is especially true because the ASMFC said during a meeting early last year, there is something wrong with their scientific analysis, but they have yet to fix it.

Would it be a good tactic to focus on Mr O Shea of the ASMFC? Maybe it will bring national & federal attention to the plight of Menhaden and the Chesapeke Bay???

Kevin
Weekend Mistress

[Alley Cat]

Fish Oil how did we ever live without it?

[Diamond Reef]

Come on guys you got beat again, take your meds and go to sleep. Hey Kev looked for ya up in Richmond this year, saw nobels, you need to show up. Cosgrove needs your help

[27 sailfish]

Kevin - 6-7 years ago , the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen Association ( MSSA ) was really pushing the Menhadden issue. They still are , in fact.

We got guys to take off work and attend some of the ASMFC meetings held in Va.
It was mostly retired guys - 20 to 25 or so in total.

You had to see it with your own eyes to believe it.
More BS then you can imagine. Delay tactics / calls for more studies / you name it.
Really opened my eyes to how ASMFC operates.

That said - if a few HUNDRED fisherman packed the next few ASMFC meetings - might get some media attention.
As far as I know - the meetings are open to the public but are held during the week from around 9 to 4. Not exactly easy for most people to attend.

One other idea is to approach the governor of Maryland. He and the Va. governor worked together to limit winter crab dredging. Results have been off the charts. Somewhere - federal money helped pay the Va. crab dredgers.

Perhaps same could happen with the Omega workers.

Guess it's time for some of us younger guys to pick up the battle that the older guys started. Many put a lot of good honest effort into it.
We have have to play dirty - fight fire with fire.

[Kevin Smith]

I went to the ASMFC meeting last spring and at that meeting they admitted their science was probably flawed. They formally decided to investigate this and promised to take action to address the problem at their August 2010 meeting. Well here we are almost one year later and nothing yet. Northan is going to demand a vote in committee this coming week. Between that vote and the video, it should everyone an where the conflicts of interest are.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress

[goose70]

Unfortunately, before fish oil and cholesterol meds, a lot more people were flopping around like a fish on the floor in their 40s and 50s.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omega-3_fatty_acid

I still contend that this is the real issue and, as of now, it still tilts in Omega Protein’s favor. This issue is a much more potent weapon than trumpeting a couple-hundred low-paying jobs. The benefits of marine omega-3, WHICH ARE NOT REPLICATED BY VEGITIBALE OMEGA-3, are significant and hard to refute. If ever a “miracle” dietary supplement existed, it would probably be fish oil pills. Menhaden are very hard to beat when it comes to omega-3 DHA/EPA oil per pound of harvest.

I’ve spent a lot of time looking for alternatives. Sure, I could eat salmon every other day, but that gets old (not to mention pricy). And not all seafood is created equal. Oysters and most other shellfish are only so-so when it comes to omega-3 content. White perch have very low amounts. Tilapia is cheap, but contains more omega-6 (which we already get more than enough of in our regular diet) than omega-3. Striped Bass have relatively high amounts, but still far less than fish in the herring family (such as menhaden).

I thought that had I found the answer with algae-derived omega-3 but, unfortunately, while it is rich in DHA, it has no significant EPA. DHA is critical, but so is EPA.

I may have finally found the answer with krill-based pills, but those aren’t cheap. I suspect that many folks can’t afford them. And I’ll bet it’s possible for even something as numerous as Antarctic krill to come under heavy fishing pressure. If you think that Menhaden are a foundational species, wait until krill get in trouble, even if only in a localized way.

As my past posts on here have indicated, I am very concerned about any industrial netting operation. History tells us that this nearly always results in a collapsed fishery. That collapse is nearly always accompanied by industry claims that all is fine right until the end. I am also deeply troubled that the head of the ASMFC is a public cheerleader for this company. That is not a proper role for a regular and he knows it.

My point, however, is that when we raise concerns about Omega Protein, we need to have answers to the omega-3 availability issue. What percent of omega-3 fish oil comes from Omega Protein? What percent of all DHA/EPA omega-3 comes from this industry? Would shifting the focus from menhaden to salmon, herring, cod or krill solve the problem or simply move it from one species to another? What are the prospects for recently available synthetic DHA and EPA?

If we cannot make the answers to those questions an integral part of our argument, then the millions of consumers who care far more about their neurological and cardiovascular health then they do about well-fed Stripers will be easily recruited to Omega Protein’s defense.

[LY2000]

Goose, if it really isn't about the seasonal jobs but the health benefits Omega provides then there is a better source that is more environmentally friendly: Nordic Naturals...and people can get off their butts for a walk now and then instead of eating a cheeseburger on the couch.

Perhaps we could eliminate heart disease by completely destroying the Bay just like we could eliminate lyme disease by paving over every inch of the east coast too.

[goose70]

Goose, if it really isn't about the seasonal jobs but the health benefits Omega provides then there is a better source that is more environmentally friendly: Nordic Naturals...and people can get off their butts for a walk now and then instead of eating a cheeseburger on the couch.

Perhaps we could eliminate heart disease by completely destroying the Bay just like we could eliminate lyme disease by paving over every inch of the east coast too.

Exercising does not replace the body's need for Omega-3. I'm up at 4:30 most mornings, six-days per week to either do intervals on the bike or go to the gym. I still require DHA & EPA. So do you. I'm not sure how the example about lyme disease fits into the discussion.

Regarding Nordic Naturals, that's great. I hope that's the answer. You can also buy similar products (salmon oil, krill oil) from other companies. What we need to do, however, is explain why that industrial-scale fish netting industry is more sustainable than Omega Protein’s. If it is, then why? What lessons can be applied to the situation in the Chesapeake?

Finally, yes, I understand that jobs is currently the card that Omega is playing most heavily. However, I think that the health card is far more potent, and they are bound to play it if and when they start to lose the protection of their paid-off protectors. The health issue is a populist issue; Omega won't need to pay off legislators if that becomes the focus and we don't have good answers to counter it.

[fly flinger]

Cod liver oil is a nutritional supplement derived from liver of cod fish. It has high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, and very high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. It is widely taken to ease the symptoms of arthritis and for other health benefits. It was once commonly given to children, because the high levels of vitamin D in cod liver oil have been shown to prevent rickets and other symptoms of hypovitaminosis D.[1]

[Southern Grin]

Hey Goose,
I agree with you. The health card could almost never be disputed. You start putting fish before people, you will almost certainly have a problem. Not to get off base, but the whole notion of banning commercial harvesting of Striped Bass is ridiculous if someone decides to bring the general public into the battle. The recreational fishermen would by far be out-numbered with the proper campaign.

[goose70]

While I was reading this, I just went to the fridge and took this pic with my phone (color off - lighting).
I learned to eat and really enjoy these when working on projects in Denmark. The Danes eat herring almost daily and so did I when working there. They make it many different ways including smoked. This is from Costco. My personal Omega Protein protest.

Here's a link with origin of the fish, etc. http://www.acmesmokedfish.com/bluehillbay/products-fishspreads.html

Yum.:wink44: The problem is, are you simply shifting pressure from one overfished keystone species to another? See, e.g., http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/cr/SeafoodWatch/web/sfw_factsheet.aspx?fid=145

I was patting myself on the back for "discovering" a krill-based source of DHA-EPA, until I ran across this slightly depressing article: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/25/business/worldbusiness/25iht-krill.1.13188108.html Now I'm thinking maybe salmon oil is the way to go, but most salmon are farm-raised and fed pellets derived from menhaden.

With 6B+ people on the planet, we are running out of easy answers.