conservation and promoting habitat protection and restoration are the
four primary goals. Do not let the wording of the goals mislead you as
the underlying goal of the NFMP is to create marine protected areas based
on little scientific data. In other words, closing large sections of
offshore areas to all fishing activities that have the potential of
severely impacting recreational fishing.
The commission must adopt the plan by the Marine Life Management Act
by Aug. 30, that was extended from its original date of Jan. 1. The
clock is ticking, so now is the time to be certain that the
soon-to-be-adopted plan is written with reasonable and obtainable goals
developed by fishermen, scientists and the public. There are 19 species
listed and the restricted areas are very extensive in the maps I have
seen banning fishing. I personally feel that any closure needs to
differentiate between commercial and recreational fishing effects and
meeting the goals.
Yes, protecting the marine life is important and I think we need a
plan that is good for all. I am just leery when a government agency has a
deadline to implement a plan. Immediately, the plans for Yellowstone's
Elks and the California Mountain Lions pop into my mind, followed by the
controversies. Contact Fish and Game for a copy and on the Web is o7
www.dfg.ca.govf7 .
In closing, last weekend I promised to tell you about my yacht
delivery from Ensenada, Mexico, to Sacramento. Well, Titan of the Sea
decided not to cooperate with us as the seas north of Point Conception
are more than 10 feet, with very short intervals, and wind waves are 5
feet on top. With my captain's prerogative, I postponed the trip as to
not jeopardize my crew, the yacht and especially me bouncing around in
those seas. So maybe next week, I will have a good story.
Safe voyages.
* MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot's boating and harbor columnist. Send him
your harbor and marine-related thoughts and story suggestions via e-mail
to o7 Mike@BoathouseTV.comf7 or o7 BoathouseTV.comf7 .
