|
as an update to my original post-
my initial thoughts of getting a groundswell of support and put pressure on the commissioners through letter-writing, TV and print media etc, websites/blogs are seeming to become more and more difficult to pull off. there just doesn't seem to be the real commitment from people in a position to make a difference to get involved. I've spent the last several days talking to legislators, environmentalists, fishery biologists and media folks- all of whom just don't have the time and/or interest in this cause.
I have been encouraged to pursue a longer-range goal of trying to bring about a fundamental reform to the ground rules that ASMFC operates under- which is a MUCH BIGGER undertaking and would likely take several years and lots of money. I'm not opposed to giving it a try, but want to see if some shorter-range goals can be reached first.
SO_ please continue to contact the commission members for the next several weeks- (even those not from your state) every piece of mail, email, phone call can have an impact, and maybe the quieter, less active commissioners can see what the anglers really want for the fishery. I will continue to work on getting this as much attention as I can, and hopefully the ASMFC guys will see the light.
and be aware, the Fall meeting of ASMFC is in Mystic CT in the endo of October- this could be a great rally for many of us as the season winds down- a get-together, protest, a fish-lovefest (er whatever) where we can really get our point across.
mark your calendars boys- first round is on me!
|