Onshore
05-30-2003, 08:19 AM
those who speak english: The Coastal Conservation Assn. has asked National Marine Fisheries Serv. to do an Environmental Impact Study before it considers Atlantic States Marine Fisheries request that it consider opening the Exclusive Economic Zone for Striped Bass fishing.
I just read where CCA has requested that NMFS do a full Environmental Impact Study before it considers opening the EEZ for Striped bass fishing.
CCAs spokesman, Fred Miller stated in the article that the study would not only evaluate the possible environmental and economic impacts that opening the EEZ would have on the Striped bass fishery; it would also take into consideration the legal and political ramifications of the proposed opening.
CCA took similar action in 1955, arguing that under the Striped Bass Act NMFS could not open the EEZ unless it could determin that such action would not disrupt management of the species by the states. NMFS agreed at that time and the EEZ ramained closed.
Apparently, CCA is confident the the EIS will result in continued closure. During the NEPA process (which NMFS must follow), the general public as well as federal, state and local agencies will have an opportunity to comment.
If a full EIS is done on this, it looks like it cold be two years or more befor a decision is reached on ASMFC's request the NMFS consider opening the EEZ for Striper fishing.
I just read where CCA has requested that NMFS do a full Environmental Impact Study before it considers opening the EEZ for Striped bass fishing.
CCAs spokesman, Fred Miller stated in the article that the study would not only evaluate the possible environmental and economic impacts that opening the EEZ would have on the Striped bass fishery; it would also take into consideration the legal and political ramifications of the proposed opening.
CCA took similar action in 1955, arguing that under the Striped Bass Act NMFS could not open the EEZ unless it could determin that such action would not disrupt management of the species by the states. NMFS agreed at that time and the EEZ ramained closed.
Apparently, CCA is confident the the EIS will result in continued closure. During the NEPA process (which NMFS must follow), the general public as well as federal, state and local agencies will have an opportunity to comment.
If a full EIS is done on this, it looks like it cold be two years or more befor a decision is reached on ASMFC's request the NMFS consider opening the EEZ for Striper fishing.