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I am not a resident of Oregon but frequent its coast often for recreation that includes fishing in the ocean.

What I think the proponents of marine reserves (MR) do not realize is the high degree to which the coastal sportfishermen are educated regarding the status and research of Oregon's marine resources, and how much they actively do to promote conservation. There was recently a convention of Oregon and Washington sportfisherman held in Ilwaco, the convention included talks by scientists from many state and federal agencies. There are also other non-profits that have been founded with the sole purpose of educating Oregon anglers on conserving Oregon's marine resources. These were started by concerned anglers. Finally many fisherman volunteer to help researchers collect data on rockfish, crab, salmon, tuna (yes we have tuna in oregon), and many other marine species.

If these same people who are heavily involved in the protection and research of Oregon's marine resources say that there is something fishy (pun intended) about how the MR process is going then why not listen? Many MR opponents have stated that they would gladly support MRs if there was a clearly stated need. I am one such person.

I have yet to see what nearshore species are threatened, what evidence there is of degraded ecosystems (no the naturally occurring deadzones do not count), nor how the benefits/costs of MRs will be monitored. Will monitoring include economic as well as ecological changes?

I think it is likely that many supporters of Marine Reserves would also likely support the development of "green" wave energy farms. What a contradiction that would be. Shut off the ocean to those who are most concerned with its conservation while supporting the commercial development of whats left by a few private industrialists.

Don't forget that sportfishing is a green industry that involves people in conservation, distributes economic benefits over a vast segment of the population instead of a few individuals, and if managed properly, has very little impact on the environment compared to other industries.

posted 5 years, 3 months ago
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