[JohnR]

From Dave Anderson:

RHODE ISLAND STRIPER ANGLERS
(and those of you who would like to weigh in from anywhere else)

Please take the time to email these two people before noon Thursday.
janet.coit@dem.ri.gov
peter.duhamel@dem.ri.gov

Rhode Island is getting all wishy washy on their striper conservation stance. They've added multiple "options" that allow patrons of the "for hire" fleet to take two fish per day. We must insist on a ONE FISH bag limit across the board.

Some key talking points:
-The ASMFC gives even the most stringent measures a 50/50 shot at achieving their conservation goals.
-Massachusetts and Connecticut are recommending 1@28 for all anglers.
-Members of environmental law enforcement are pleading for universal regulations between the states.
-The striper decline is real. It has been recognized by the ASMFC and recreational anglers coastwide
-Taking proper measures to preserve the striped bass will ensure that hundreds of local businesses can keep their doors open. We shouldn't make allowances for one type of business when there are dozens of others that also rely on this resource.

Keys to a letter that gets read.
-Keep it short
-Be nice, don't get angry
-Stay on point, state your stance, support it and that's it.