|
Given the methods they use to collect data, the results are certainly in the ballpark. I've been keeping a detailed log since 1996 and I've used the Mass. DMF's eLogbook for the past two seasons. When they recently released information saying the recreational catch had declined 65% over the past few years, I went into my log and came up with 66% for myself.
My issue is with the arbitrary value they use as the sustainable limit. How can you know how many fish are in the ocean by counting a small percentage of those that are taken out?
The decisions made by these folks are political. They report to the Department of Commerce and their main concern is economic, not species conservation.
|