Normally, I would agree - BUT **
As long as NOAA and WDFW are accepting public comment on closing fishing areas in Puget Sound to protect fish stocks, I don't consider submitting letters a waste of time - but to each his own. NOAA and WDFW will formally respond to comments they receive during the open comment period. Considering the major impact seals have to the Puget Sound fish stocks and considering that NOAA has already recommended Washington manage the harbor seal population to protect fish stocks, I am interested in the 'official' response from both agencies.

If we don't write meaningful letters and don't attend the public meetings for Washington closures, well... I can't think of a better way to piss away our fishing rights here in Washington too.

Deterrence, well, that IS a different matter.
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Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, NOAA Fisheries Service have jurisdiction over seals and sea lions. Here is what they have to say about deterrence;

Deterring Problem Seals & Sea Lions

Potential Deterrence Methods for Pacific Harbor Seals & California Sea Lions

don't forget to read the fine print;
Regardless of method or intent, the property owner or fisher may be subject to prosecution should a marine mammal be seriously injured or killed as a result of deterrence efforts for the protection of property, gear or catch.

Maybe US could outsource excess seal population to Canada...
The Canadian seal hunt is often the target of misinformation.


Edited by Plus1 (11/29/09 12:22 PM)