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ASMFC says striped bass stocks in good condition, no overfishing |
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Although the overall abundance of striped bass has declined, striped
bass stocks along the Atlantic coast are healthy and overfishing is not
occurring, the federal agency responsible for monitoring Atlantic coast
fish species said in an annual report.
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC), a 15-member body responsible for managing species and implementing management plans along the East Coast, provided that rosy assessment at its annual meeting in Boston on November 8. It is nearly identical to one provided at the same meeting in 2008. It is an assessment many recreational fishermen, including those on Martha's Vineyard, say is incorrect. In tackle shops and on the beach fishermen complain that striped bass fishing is declining both in the quantity and quality of fish. The closest statistical evidence of that decline is reflected in landings of striped bass during the annual Martha's Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby. Read the complete story from The Martha's Vineyard Times
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HASTINGS: Time to improve the Endangered Species Act
May 18, 2012 - When the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was signed into law in 1973 by President Nixon, he spoke about the importance of preserving “the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed.” I believe that goal is as important today as it was back then. However, after nearly 40 years, it’s time to take a fresh, honest look at the law and consider whether there are ways it could be improved to do a better job of protecting and recovering species.
