MLPA FYI

[dorado50]

Dear Fellow Fishermen,
First of all, I would like to thank you for filling out a United Anglers of Southern California (UASC) "MLPA" Brochure/Survey telling us where and how you fish. As I am sure you are aware, California is in the process of changing the way it manages not only recreational and commercial fishing, but maybe more importantly, is also deciding on areas where we can and cannot fish. Instead of sitting on the sidelines while our future is at stake, UASC plans to take an active part in this MLPA Initiative and you and your information will play a major role in our efforts. Accordingly, UASC is compiling information, including your survey advice, to use as part of our strategy to maximize recreational opportunities in the coming Marine Protected Area (MPA) process in Southern California.
While I have your attention, I would also like to (A) give you a little background on the current status of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) along with (B) some insight into when we will see the start right here in Southern California.
A) As of February 20, 2008, the North Central region for the MLPA Initiative is still debating proposals for northern California that include new MPAs with State Marine Reserves that allow no fishing at all. The process is still highly contentious, but along with Coastside Fishing Club and ASA, our prime partners in the north, we are taking the high ground on the emerging science of MPAs. This evolving body of science embraces MPAs that in addition to conservation, may still allow certain types of restricted fishing instead of the "no-fishing at all" approach. The jury is still out, but this approach offers the first real hope for southern California!
B) The question on everyone's mind is "what is the timeline for marine protected area debate in southern California?". The quick and dirty answer is that in light of the governor's latest budget, the Southern California MLPA process is running about 2 months behind and should start here in late spring or early summer.
If you are interested in helping out, please e-mail techsupport@unitedanglers.com with your information. Thanks in advance for your help.
Tight lines,
Tom Raftican