Science magazine had a News&Analysis piece (16 March issue) on NOAA's "check not to fish" experiment. Unfortunately the link only works for subscribers.
The gist of the article says that so far 125 checks have gone out (of which 20 have been cashed) ranging from 15-500 bucks and a second wave is about to be mailed. Eventually 500 checks will go out. The program will cost NOAA $145,000, with as much as $75,000 going to fishermen.
The state automatically invalidates the license of anyone who cashes a check.
There has been a fair amount of scientific and political backlash over it, but also significant scientific support.
There is a picture of the guy behind the study. He is fishing Parkers ledge in Woods Hole. Looks like he is chunking or three waying with an old penn long beach (with upgraded handle) on a big old spinner (guides up). Wearing a big smile. Probably I should take him fishing then invite him over to see my cellar.....that ought to open his eyes to economic impact
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