Several divers spoke last night in favor of the rockfish plan and MPAs. Staff indicated greater interest/opportunity in the future for looking at the pretty fish. This seems to be a huge expansion on that thought by a new Commissioner. Lots of resistance to MPAs from the sport fishing folks who want any recovery related zones to be science driven as to the intended goal and to have periodic reviews and to incorporate sunset clauses. Keep looking for the hidden agenda!

Commissioner Jennings' timing is terrible in terms of public perception of the PSRCP and MR/MPAs as a tool therein as well as the integrity of the rule making process.