Hello all S-B members,
We are all aware of the poor numbers of River Herring/Alewives that were in the runs this past spring. When we take this information and add it to the fact that from NJ to RI River Herring/Alewives are in much worse condition it does not take a scientist to know that drastic measures may be needed to prevent a complete collapse of the River Herring/Alewife fishery. Many scientists are putting most of the blame on the drought conditions of the past few years though there is considerable suspicion of at sea interactions with the Sea or Atlantic Herring commercial fleet. though to be fair, there is not a lot of evidence to support these suspicions.
Bottom line is that the MA DMF is holding hearings next week regarding a complete closure of both harvest and possession of River Herring/Alewives for 2006. A little bird told me that RI is considering doing the same and the two states may even mirror each other.
My personal opinion is that a year closure to try and save this fishery is appropriate. However, I am only in favor of this if it is across the board, commercial and recreational alike.
This being said I am the MSBA Gov't Affairs Chair and represent the MSBA membership. I need your feedback and need it fast. Please post your opinions to this list or e-mail me directly at
BasicPatrick@aol.com.
The hearings are being held on October 24th and 25th. This coming Monday and Tuesday. Directions and information is at the following link.
http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dmf/marin...ngs_092305.pdf
Thank you and get me those comments
Captain Patrick Paquette
Massachusetts Striped Bass Association
Gov't Affairs Chair
UMS Delegate
Annual Sportfishing EXPO Chair
Threaded Mode