One thing that was clear from last nights scoping meeting was how low the impact is estimated as a result of this fishery. (less than 1% of the spawning biomass impacted even if every fish is killed, discards have not increased despite increased participation, etc) In my opinion it is
irresponsible of the DNR to reduce access and opportunity by closing days without a clear indication that this fishery is causing a particular conservation problem. With the known science of other fisheries, the DNR has the obligation to look at other alternatives
before reducing and restricting access or targeting one method of fishing given the unknowns. If DNR fears being in "crisis" management in the near future before this fishery can be looked at further, the DNR has the responsibility to act on known scientific solutions to resolve the potential problem before taking extreme action only on "concerns" by some without scientific backing!
This should not be a hard issue for them.
Please comment before the 23rd here:
Maryland Fisheries Service Draft Regulations
Tell them that any regulations that go beyond attempting to ensure low mortality rates is unjustified and sets a poor precedence for fisheries management! Please recommend NO DAY RESTRICTIONS or the UNJUSTIFIED targeting of one specific method of fishing. I personally will be recommending the MSSA compromise and proposal, which I believe to be more than responsible!