Stop MLPA - California

DFG gets Mobil App for MPA

2011-11-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

DFG Releases Mobile Website with MPA Maps

posted: 10/27/2011

By: Taylor Hill

SACRAMENTO — Anglers heading out on offshore fishing trips will be able to locate all the planned Marine Protected Areas off Southern California with a glance at their smartphones — as long as they have cell service. The California Department of Fish and Game’s new mobile website recently added maps of the north, central and south coast Marine Protected Areas, so anglers can see where the no-fishing zones are — wherever they may be.

“We think this site is a thing of genius,” said DFG Director Charlton H. Bonham. “This site will help immensely in our outreach efforts regarding the MPAs.”

With the regulations already in place in the north coast and central coast areas, the south coast region regulations are expected to be implemented Jan. 1, 2012.

Though some offshore areas may have spotty cellphone coverage, the website is expected to be useful to anglers, boaters and others who plan to use or pass through MPA waters. Users can access the information from personal computers, as well as smartphones, tablets and other portable devices. The site’s color-coded map shows distinctions between different levels of protection in each MPA — and it allows users to select areas by map, county, region or by alphabetical order.

“This site is testament to the caliber and commitment of DFG employees,” Bonham said.

To view the site, visit dfg.ca.gov/mobile.
Marine Protected Areas to go into effect Jan. 1, 2012:

San Diego County:

Agua Hedionda Lagoon State Marine Reserve
Batiquitos Lagoon State Marine Park
Buena Vista Lagoon State Marine Park
Cardiff-San Elijo State Marine Conservation Area
Encinitas State Marine Conservation Area
La Jolla State Marine Conservation Area
Mia J. Tegner State Marine Conservation Area
San Diego-Scripps State Marine Conservation Area
San Dieguito Lagoon State Marine Park
San Elijo Lagoon State Marine Park

Orange County:

Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area
Dana Point State Marine Conservation Area
Doheny Beach State Marine Conservation Area
Doheny State Marine Conservation Area
Heisler Park State Marine Reserve
Irvine Coast State Marine Conservation Area
Laguna Beach State Marine Conservation Area
Niguel State Marine Conservation Area
Robert E. Badham State Marine Conservation Area
South Laguna Beach State Marine Conservation Area
Upper Newport Bay State Marine Park

Los Angeles County:

Abalone Cove State Marine Park
Arrow Point to Lion Head Point Invertebrate Area, Catalina Island Special Closure
Catalina Marine Science Center State Marine Reserve
Farnsworth Bank State Marine Conservation Area
Lover’s Cove State Marine Conservation Area
Point Fermin State Marine Park

Ventura County:

Anacapa Island Special Closure
Anacapa Island State Marine Conservation Area
Anacapa Island State Marine Reserve
Big Sycamore Canyon State Marine Reserve
Footprint State Marine Reserve, Anacapa Channel

Santa Barbara County:

Carrington Point State Marine Reserve, Santa Rosa Island
Goleta Slough State Marine Park
Gull Island State Marine Reserve, Santa Cruz Island
Harris Point State Marine Reserve, San Miguel Island
Judith Rock State Marine Reserve, San Miguel Island
Painted Cave State Marine Conservation Area, Santa Cruz Island
Refugio State Marine Conservation Area
Richardson Rock State Marine Reserve, San Miguel Island
San Miguel Island Special Closure
Santa Barbara Island State Marine Reserve
Scorpion State Marine Reserve, Santa Cruz Island
Skunk Point State Marine Reserve, Santa Rosa Island
South Point State Marine Reserve, Santa Rosa Island
Vandenberg State Marine Reserve

Make Your Voice Heard on Regulations That Propose to Close Southern California's Marine Waters to Fishing

2011-10-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

This May Be Your Last Chance to Comment on MLPA Regulations Before They Are Finalized

The Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) process, which propose to unnecessarily close much of the state's best coastal waters to sportfishing, is near completion in southern California, but anglers and boaters still have an opportunity to provide input before these regulations are finalized. On October 3, the California Fish and Game Commission opened a 15-day public comment period for revised proposed regulations for the South Coast marine protected areas developed under the MLPA process. Revisions were made because the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL), which must first review and approve the regulations before they go into effect, rejected the regulatory package previously provided by the commission.

The re-noticed regulatory package attempts to clarify and revise several aspects of the commission's decision making per the OAL's request, and makes changes to some of the proposed marine protected area (MPA) boundaries and what activities will be allowed in them. The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans, which represents the interests of California's recreational anglers and boaters in the MLPA process, urges all anglers to provide their thoughts and concerns about the regulations prior to the October 18, deadline. Comments will also be accepted at the October 19 Fish and Game Commission meeting in Monterey, Calif. It is important that anglers respond to the revised MPA regulations since they may significantly affect their ability to access the most productive ocean areas!

Act Now

Enter your zip code below to send a letter to the Fish and Game Commission expressing your concerns with the revised regulations, and the MLPA in general, before the October 18 deadline. Thank you for doing your part to keep California fishing!

Click here to send a letter

Fish and Game Commission Votes on New Effective Date for South Coast MPAs

2011-10-10T09:36:00.001-07:00

Media Contact:
Jordan Traverso, DFG Communications, (916) 654-9937
The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) today selected Jan. 1, 2012 as the effective date for implementation of the marine protected areas (MPAs) in Southern California. The revised effective date is for the South Coast Study Region, which spans from Point Conception in Santa Barbara County to the U.S./Mexico border.
On Dec. 15, 2010 the Commission adopted regulations to create a suite of MPAs in this study region. Developed pursuant the California Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA), this network of 49 MPAs and three special closures covers approximately 354 square miles of state waters and represents approximately 15 percent of the region.
The Office of Administrative Law (OAL) requested clarification and further information, thus disapproving the original regulatory package. This ineffectuated the Commission’s previously selected implementation date of Oct. 1. All of the information requested by OAL is expected to be provided in time for the Commission to put the potential re-adoption of the regulatory package on its October agenda.
If re-adopted, the new effective date of Jan. 1, 2012, selected today, allows time for OAL to review and approve the re-submitted regulations, finalizing the lawmaking process. It also allows the Commission and Department of Fish and Game (DFG) to better inform affected ocean users of the new regulations.
For more information on the south coast MPAs or MLPA, please visit www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/southcoast.asp.

Notice of Written Comments are due

2011-10-06T11:38:00.001-07:00

During the regulatory process to amend Section 632, Title 14, California Code of Regulations, regarding south coast marine protected areas, changes were made to the originally proposed regulatory language.

Because these regulations are different from, yet sufficiently related to, the originally proposed regulations, the Administrative Procedure Act requires that we make the changes available to you for a 15-day written comment period (October 3, 2011- October 18, 2011). Comments will also be accepted at the October 19, 2011 hearing in Monterey.

The continuation notice, including an updated informative digest, and the modified proposed regulatory language are posted at http://www.fgc.ca.gov/regulations/2010/#632sc.

This is also to provide you with a notice of availability of a document added to the rulemaking file. The November 3, 2010 Amended Initial Statement of Reason identified Attachment 17: California Department of Fish and Game Memo to the Commission regarding outstanding issues identified in the proposed Initial Statement of Reasons to Amend Section 632 Title 14, CCR (October 11, 2010) as a document supporting the proposed regulations. This document is available for public inspection between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, at 1416 Ninth Street, Room 1320, Sacramento, CA, and on the Commission's website at http://www.fgc.ca.gov/regulations/2010/#632sc.

Written comments must be received in the Commission office by 5:00 pm on October 18, 2011. Interested persons may attend the October 19, 2011 hearing in Monterey and offer testimony.

Fish and Game Commission Re-Notices Proposed South Coast MPA Regulations

2011-10-05T14:11:00.001-07:00

Sacramento, CA – October 5, 2011 – On October 3, the California Fish and Game Commission opened a 15-day public comment period for revised proposed regulations for the South Coast marine protected areas developed under the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) process. Revisions were made because the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL), which must first review and approve the regulations before they go into effect, rejected the regulatory package previously provided by the commission.
The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans, which represents the interests of California's recreational anglers and boaters in the MLPA process, is currently reviewing the revised regulations and will provide suggested issues to consider when commenting on the regulations prior to the October 18, deadline. Comments will also be accepted at the October 19 Fish and Game Commission meeting in Monterey, Calif. It is important that anglers respond to the revised MPA regulations since they may significantly affect their ability to access the most productive ocean areas.
During its September meeting, the commission outlined a proposed timeline to re-notice and finalize the South Coast MLPA regulations, resubmit them to OAL, and seek an anticipated effective date of January 1, 2012. This projected effective date is not only dependent on OAL approval, but also may be affected by the outcome of a pending lawsuit filed by members of the PSO.
The lawsuit seeks to set aside the MLPA regulations for the North Central and South Coast study regions, citing a lack of statutory authority for the Fish and Game Commission to adopt the regulations, and, in the case of the South Coast regulations, numerous violations of the California Environmental Quality Act in the commission's environmental review of the regulations. A hearing on the North Central Coast portion of the case, originally set for September 26, will now take place on October 6, in San Diego.

Ask Governor Brown to Remove Richard Rogers

2011-09-15T15:15:00.001-07:00

Ask Governor Brown to Remove Richard Rogers
from the California Fish and Game Commission
Rogers' voting record shows he is no friend to California's sportfishing community or the state's economy

Background

At a time when California faces record unemployment levels, Governor Brown can take one simple action to remove a major impediment to the state's economy – remove Richard Rogers from the Fish and Game Commission.

Even though his term expired on January 15, 2011, Rogers continues to sit on the Commission because the Governor has yet to appoint a replacement. Since his 2005 appointment, Rogers has been one of the most vocal supporters of the anti-job and anti-fishing Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Initiative. We urge Governor Brown to take action and name a new commissioner to take Rogers' seat.

The MLPA is a controversial program that threatens sportfishing in California, and the businesses and 20,000 jobs that depend on it, by unnecessarily closing large areas of the ocean to recreational fishing. The MLPA is costing California jobs and harming communities and businesses, while ignoring the real problems affecting California's coastal waters, such as coastal development, habitat loss and pollution.

On December 15, 2010, Rogers was one of three commissioners who voted in favor of a wide-ranging array of marine protected areas, essentially no-fishing zones, along the southern California coast. Other MLPA regulations – which Rogers also supported – are already in place and have cost jobs and fishing opportunity in California's Central and North Central Coast regions. Because of the flawed nature of the MLPA process, these regulations are currently being challenged in the courts.

The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans believes that Governor Brown should replace Rogers with a commissioner who understands his or her responsibility to conserve California's natural resources, understands the role of anglers in conservation and takes into account the impact of regulations on California's citizens, its economy and jobs for working families.

What You Can Do?

Click here to ask Governor Brown to remove Richard Rogers from the California Fish and Game Commission. Send your message today!

Keep America Fishing

2011-07-12T07:53:00.001-07:00

Summer is Here

I hope you had a wonderful 4^th of July holiday and are enjoying the summer weather. With warmer weather and longer days, summer provides more opportunities to fish than any other time of year. Every fishing trip shared with friends and family is a chance to pass on a time honored tradition. Read More...

Policy

Recreational Fish Hatcheries on the Chopping Block

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (FWS) National Fish Hatchery System (NFHS) is responsible for stocking many of our nation's waters with the fish that anglers enjoy pursuing. In response to recent cuts in the federal budget, the FWS has proposed an $11 million reduction in NFHS funding, with $6 million coming from the account for operating mitigation hatcheries. If approved, this large reduction will result in the closure of nine hatcheries, seven of which are located in the southeastern U.S., greatly reducing angling opportunity in the region. Send a message to your Members of Congress urging them to take the necessary actions to restore the NFHS budget and keep our nation's hatcheries operating (This will be linked to the alert once it is up).

National Fish Habitat Conservation Act Introduced

On June 15, Sen. Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) introduced the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act (NFHCA), S. 1201, into the Senate with the support of eight other Senators. The NFHCA will authorize the most comprehensive effort ever attempted to improve fish habitat. By restoring fish habitat and boosting fish populations, S. 1201 will improve recreational fishing opportunities across the country, helping to ensure that individuals and their families and friends can get outside and enjoy our nation's aquatic resources. Keep an eye out for an opportunity to support the NFHCA through KeepAmericaFishing coming soon.

Legislation to Stop Unwarranted Fisheries Closures

The Fisheries Science Improvement Act (H.R. 2304) will help ensure that science is the primary driver of federal fisheries management decisions. This legislation will guide federal fisheries management towards a more science-based approach and prevent NOAA Fisheries from setting arbitrary and overly-restrictive catch levels on numerous important recreational fisheries. Send a message to your House of Representatives members today in support of H.R. 2304 and help ensure that catch limits are set based on data, not on guesstimates.

New Legislation Opens More Lands to Fishing

Lack of access is the primary reason that keeps anglers from enjoying a day on the water. Fortunately, legislation was recently introduced in Congress that will increase access to angling, hunting and recreational shooting opportunities on federal lands through projects such as easements and access roads. Show your support for the Making Public Lands Public Access Act, send a message to your U.S. Senators and help open hundreds of thousands of acres of federal land to the sports that you love.

Proposed Mine Threatens Wild Salmon and Trout

Photo by Brian O'Keefe

Alaska's Bristol Bay, home to the largest salmon run and several other important recreational fisheries, is under threat by a 20 square mile proposed mining complex. Pebble Mine could produce up to ten billion tons of toxic waste that will devastate the fishery and the Bay if the inevitable spill or earthquake should occur. Send a message to the Environmental Protection Agency and your Members of Congress today urging them to protect Alaska's sport fisheries and the people that depend on Bristol Bay for their livelihoods.

Floridians Defeat Cuts to Fisheries Conservation

Thanks to KeepAmericaFishing™ angler advocates, legislation that would have cut millions of dollars from fisheries conservation in Florida is no longer being considered. This misguided legislation would have dismantled the "user-pay, user-benefit" fisheries management system that is indisputably the best fisheries management program in the world and had a devastating effect on fisheries management and conservation. S.B. 744 became ineligible for further action when Florida's legislative session closed on May 6. Thank you to all anglers that took action against this bill.

Anglers' Voices Heard on Oregon Legislation

Anglers in Oregon helped stop a bill in the State Legislature that aimed to remove fishery conservation measures from non-native fish species, including many of Oregon's most popular sportfish. H.B. 2008 would have greatly reduced the state's recreational fishing opportunities by removing management measures from sportfish such as brown trout and largemouth bass. Due to overwhelming angler response, the Oregon legislature is no longer considering this misguided legislation. This is a huge victory for the angling community and it is thanks to angler activists like you.

Help Fight Unwarranted Bans on Lead Fishing Tackle

Last November, anglers like you helped defeat an attempt to ban lead fishing tackle nationwide, but the fight is not over yet. KeepAmericaFishing™ is asking anglers to rally behind legislation that will definitively protect our right to sustainably fish on our nation's waterways. Please contact your Members of Congress today urging them to co-sponsor the Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Sports Protection Act.

California's Salmon are Running Out of Water and Time

Competing uses for water in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta watershed are putting the great salmon runs of California's Central Valley in danger of disappearing. Despite the extreme environmental consequences of over-pumping, private agricultural interests are attempting to control even more of the public's water. As a result, the region's salmon fishing seasons were completely shut down in 2008 and 2009 and severely curtailed in 2010. Send a message today to help protect California's renowned salmon runs.

Fish with Your Kids

Get your kids out there! Fishing with kids is a great way to connect with them and to experience the outdoors together. TakeMeFishing.org has an entire section dedicated to helping you share the love of fishing with the little anglers in your life. From safety tips to vacation planning, you can find it here. Read More...

Make It Easy to Plan Your Next Boating Trip

As anglers, we love to socialize – whether at the dock, on the water or online. Now, thanks to Discover Boating, boat owners can invite friends, family and other nautical novices aboard for boating trips using the new Welcome to the Water excursion planner at Facebook.com/DiscoverBoating.

Choose from more than 35,000 places to get on the water and customize the invitation to the type of boating trip, what each guest can bring and more. You can even share photos and videos from your trips.

As added incentive, "captains" will be ranked by the number of people they invite and will be eligible to win weekly nautical prizes, including Sperry Topsiders, $100 Visa gift cards, NorChill coolers, customized shirts with your boat's name from BoatNameGear.com and one-year BoatU.S. memberships. Learn more...

Seven for Kevin

Source: Seven for Kevin
by Deb Johnson of B.A.S.S.

Congratulations to Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., for winning the 2011 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year (AOY) award. This award marks his seventh best-angler title and he's now the first angler to hold four consecutive AOY titles. Read More...

Fishing Fun Facts

Did you know...

More Americans fish than play basketball (24.0 million) and football (8.9 million) combined?
If fishing were ranked as a corporation in the Fortune 500, it would outrank Sears, Pepsi, Apple and Intel?
The number of jobs supported by anglers could employ all attendees of the last seven Super Bowls – twice?

Legislation Introduced to Stop Unwarranted Fisheries Closures

2011-06-30T07:43:00.000-07:00

Legislation Introduced to Stop Unwarranted Fisheries Closures

The Fisheries Science Improvement Act will help ensure science is the primary driver of federal fisheries management decisions

The Fisheries Science Improvement Act (H.R. 2304), introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) on June 23, 2011, with the support of a bi-partisan group of 18 other Members of Congress, seeks to ensure that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) is required to set catch limits based on data, not on guesstimates.
This legislation will guide federal fisheries management towards a more science-based approach and prevent NOAA Fisheries from setting arbitrary and overly-restrictive catch levels on numerous important recreational fisheries.
H.R. 2304 provides a timely path for NOAA Fisheries to manage all of America's marine fish stocks based on sound scientific data. View the Fishery Science Improvement Act Fact Sheet.

The Situation

As amended in 2006, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires Regional Fishery Management Councils to put in place annual catch limits (ACLs) and accountability measures (AMs) for every fishery by December 31, 2011. The requirements were intended to end overfishing by 2011 but were predicated on two critical assumptions:

NOAA Fisheries would make decisions based on up-to-date and accurate stock assessments
NOAA Fisheries would improve catch data to better anticipate potential problems in a given fishery.

Neither of these obligations has been met.
Scientific management should be the cornerstone of fisheries management at NOAA. However, the agency has felt compelled by statutory deadlines to make major fishery management decisions using inadequate data and incomplete analysis. NOAA Fisheries is simply making guesses in many cases when setting catch limits and in determining other management parameters, and guesswork should have no place in federal fisheries management.

How You Can Help

Please enter your zip code below to send a message to your Congress member in support of the Fishery Science Improvement Act.

IGo to Keep America Fishing to send a support letter - Click Here

On The Lighter Side - Tree Huggers

2011-01-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

Splinters in the Crotch
A woman from Los Angeles, CA who was a tree hugger, a Democrat and an anti-hunter, purchased a piece of timberland near Colville, WA.

There was a large tree on one of the highest points in the tract. She wanted a good view of the natural splendor of her land so she started to climb the big tree. As she neared the top, she encountered a spotted owl that attacked her. In her haste to escape, the woman slid down the tree to the ground and got many splinters in her crotch. In considerable pain, she hurried to Mt. Carmel ER to see a doctor. She told him she was an environmentalist, a democrat and an anti-hunter and how she came to get all the splinters.

The doctor listened to her story with great patience and then told her to go wait in the examining room and he would see if he could help her. She waited three hours before the doctor reappeared.

The angry woman demanded, "What took you so long?"

He smiled and told her, "Well, I had to get permits from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management before I could remove old-growth timber from a recreational area. I'm sorry, but they turned me down."
GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Yes you can laugh..:-)

2010-12-22T12:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/pdfs/scmpas121510.pdf
Who: California Fish and Game Commission

What: News release (see below) regarding the adopted marine protected area regulations for the

MLPA South Coast Study Region (Point Conception in Santa Barbara County to the

California-Mexico border in San Diego County) and certified final environmental impact

report (EIR, prepared under the California Environmental Quality Act or CEQA) for proposed

south coast marine protected areas

When: Regulations are expected to go into effect in 2011; the final EIR is available now

Where: A message will be sent to this list when the south coast marine protected area regulations have

been approved by the Office of Administrative Law; the final EIR is available at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/finalimpact_sc.asp

California Department of Fish and Game News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 15, 2010

Contacts:

Adrianna Shea, Fish and Game Commission, (916) 508-5262

Jordan Traverso, DFG Communications, (916) 654-9937

California Fish and Game Commission Gives Final Approval for South Coast Marine Protected Areas

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) has adopted regulations to create a new suite of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Southern California. At a Commission meeting in Santa Barbara today, the regulations were adopted as part of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA), which requires California to reexamine and redesign its system of MPAs with the goals to, among other things, increase the effectiveness of MPAs in protecting the states marine life and habitats, marine ecosystems and marine natural heritage.

Informed by recommendations generated through a two-year public planning process, the regulations will create 36 new MPAs encompassing approximately 187 square miles (8 percent) of state waters in the study region. Approximately 116 square miles (4.9 percent) have been designated as no-take state marine reserves (82.5 square miles/3.5 percent) and no-take state marine conservation areas (33.5 square miles/1.4 percent), with the remainder designated as state marine conservation areas with different take allowances and varying levels of protection. In addition to approving the MPA regulations, the Commission also certified the environmental impact report prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.

The public planning process for the south coast region, from Point Conception in Santa Barbara County to the California border with Mexico, began in July 2008 and included more than 50 days of meetings with formal public comment held for a 64-member Regional Stakeholder Group, a Science Advisory Team and a Blue Ribbon Task Force appointed by the Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency. In addition, more than 12,000 written public comments were submitted through the regulatory and environmental review processes to help inform recommendations on south coast region MPAs.

The California Department of Fish and Game, the lead agency charged with managing the states marine resources, will be responsible for implementing the MLPA program which will include enforcement, education, monitoring and research activities. The south coast MPA regulations are anticipated to go into effect in mid-2011 after appropriate filings with the Office of Administrative Law and the Secretary of State.

The south coast study region is the third of five study regions to complete the planning process under the MLPA. Once implemented, the south coast MPAs will join the MPAs currently in place from the central and north-central coast study regions to form a network ranging approximately 875 miles from the California border with Mexico to Alder Creek near Point Arena in Mendocino County. The Commission will receive recommendations for the north coast study region from the north coast blue ribbon task force in February which will mark the start of the formal regulatory process. Planning is under way to develop the process for San Francisco Bay, the fifth and final study region.

The existing MPAs in the northern Channel Islands, which encompass an additional 168 square miles and 7 percent of state waters in the study region, were not modified as part of this decision.

A map of the decisions made today can be viewed at www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/pdfs/scmpas121510.pdf.

Critical Vote Dec 15-16

2010-12-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

Process to Close Sportfishing in California Nearing Critical Final Vote
Send in your comments to the Fish and Game Commission prior to the December 15-16 meeting asking for the suspension of the South Coast implementation process

The Situation

During its upcoming meeting, the California Fish and Game Commission could vote to enclose approximately 15 percent of southern California’s coastal waters within marine protected areas (MPAs), including many of the most popular fishing spots, under the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) process. This critical vote comes at a time when concerns about the MLPA process continue to escalate. A recent court ruling validates long-held concerns about the secretive ways in which the groups implementing the MLPA have been making decisions. The meeting is being held December 15-16, in Santa Barbara.

The MLPA process has been plagued by numerous issues which have not been resolved, including:

The lack of a transparent and open decision making process
Inadequate resources for enforcement and biological monitoring
A process that side-steps a science-based fisheries management approach that clearly identifies the threats to California’s marine environment

Touted as “ecosystem protection,” the MLPA only targets recreational fishing and its significant economic contributions to California’s economy all the while ignoring the litany of significant threats to California’s oceans, such as sewage outfalls and storm water runoff, agricultural chemicals and other pollutants, ocean acidification, ocean side development and once-through cooling.

The Department of Fish and Game estimates that the MPA regulations will cost California’s taxpayers $40 million annually for enforcement and biological monitoring – resources that the state simply does not have. With a current deficit of $26 billion, California cannot afford to adopt costly measures that will only work to limit recreational fishing access which provides employment for 20,000 Californians.

How You Can Help

Given the numerous serious concerns surrounding the process, please send a message to the California Fish and Game Commission urging them to suspend the South Coast MLPA implementation.

Visit www.KeepAmericaFishing.org for more information on the MLPA.

Thank you for doing your part to help KeepAmericaFishing!

3 New Meeting dates for the MLPA workshop.

2010-10-28T11:15:00.001-07:00

Save the Date: Attend Round 2 Public Workshop Informing Development of the
South Coast Marine Protected Areas Monitoring Plan

**To receive general updates and other information, please sign up for the Monitoring Enterprise listserv at monitoringenterprise.org.

The MPA Monitoring Enterprise, in cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), invites you to attend the second round of public workshops to inform the development of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Monitoring Plan for the South Coast region (Point Conception to the California/Mexico border).

The first round of public workshops, held in July 2010, described the monitoring framework and the anticipated process and timeline for developing the plan, and gathered public input on South Coast MPA monitoring perspectives and priorities. An overview of those workshops is available on the Monitoring Enterprise website: www.calost.org/South_Coast.html.

At the second round of workshops, Monitoring Enterprise staff will:

Present and answer questions on: 1) draft monitoring metrics for assessing ecosystem conditions and trends, and 2) draft questions to evaluate MPA design and management decisions; and
Invite written comment on the draft metrics and questions, at and/or following the workshops.

The workshops will take place in three locations in the South Coast region (all times are approximately 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). All workshops will have the same format and agenda. The Monitoring Enterprise will post the agenda, venue information, and other advance meeting materials on the Monitoring Enterprise website at least one week prior to the workshops:

Monday, November 8: Santa Barbara
Wednesday, November 10: Culver City
Monday, November 15: Carlsbad

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by Friday, October 29 to Christine Lim (clim@kearnswest.com or 415-391-7900) with the date/location you will attend. Lunch will be provided for those who RSVP by October 29.

Please feel free to forward this email to other members of the public who would be interested in attending. Please contact Christine Lim (see email address above) with any questions. For more information about the MPA Monitoring Enterprise, please visit http://calost.org/monitoring_ent.html.

MLPA Meeting Southern Sept. 29th

2010-09-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Please see attached for a draft agenda for the commission’s September 29, 2010 meeting. Subject of the meeting is consideration of possible extension of public review and comment period for the draft environmental impact report regarding MPAs in the MLPA South Coast Study Region.

AND GAME COMMISSION
(916) 653-4899
www.fgc.ca.gov
Special Meeting of Lion’s Gate Hotel & Conference Center
September 29, 2010 (Wednesday) Club Ballroom1
12:00 p.m. 3410 Westover Street
McClellan, CA.

AGENDA

ALL MEETINGS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
1. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF POSSIBLE EXTENSION OF PUBLIC
REVIEW AND COMMENT PERIOD FOR THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT REGARDING MARINE PROTECTED AREAS IN THE CALIFORNIA SOUTH
COAST STUDY REGION PURSUANT TO THE MARINE LIFE PROTECTION ACT.
1 These facilities are accessible to persons with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodations for a disability, please contact
California Relay Service at 1 (800) 735-2929 (TT) or 1 (800) 735-2922 (Voice) and ask them to contact the California Fish and Game
Commission at (916) 653-4899.
2 The public is encouraged to comment on any item on the agenda. In order for the Commission to adequately consider public comments,
the public is requested to submit written comments no later than ten days prior to the meeting. Written comments received fewer than
ten days preceding the meeting will be submitted to the Commission at the meeting; however, Commission staff is unable to deliver
material received one day before and on the day of the meeting to the Commissioners when the meeting is not in Sacramento. Please
send your comments to be received no later than two days before the meeting.
If you

New and Proposed Regulations - Ca. Fish and Game

2010-09-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

New and Proposed Regulations

The California Fish and Game Commission is considering the following changes to Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations. A business or a person submitting a comment to a proposed regulation or proposed amendment or repeal of a regulation has the right to request a copy of the final statement of reasons. Copies of the final statements of reasons will be available on this web page as they are prepared. Requests may also be submitted to the California Fish and Game Commission, 1416 Ninth Street, Room 1320, Sacramento, CA 95814.
fgc.ca.gov/regulations/new/2010/proposedregs

Victory for California Anglers

2010-08-06T12:23:00.000-07:00

Don Benninghoven Is Not Confirmed As a Member of the Fish and Game Commission

Sacramento, CA – August 6, 2010 – Thanks to California’s grassroots anglers who loudly spoke out for a fair and unbiased process for protection of ocean resources along the California coast, the appointment of Fish and Game Commissioner Don Benninghoven was not confirmed by the State Senate. As a result, as of August 4, 2010, Mr. Benninghoven no longer sits on the Commission. Over the past several months, thousands of concerned citizens voiced their concerns over Mr. Benninghoven’s lack of independence and objectivity as a member of the Commission, especially throughout the process of implementing the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA).

“We are so pleased that recreational anglers from across California responded with letters to Senate President Darrell Steinberg decrying Don Benninghoven's bias in the MLPA process,” said Bob Fletcher of the Sportfishing Association of California and former Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Fish and Game. “And we are pleased that the State Senate listened to Californians who love to fish and who love the Ocean as much as anybody.”

In August 2009, Governor Schwarzenegger appointed Mr. Benninghoven to the Fish & Game Commission at the last minute to vote on a proposal to close areas within California’s North Central Coast region to fishing. Just prior to his appointment, Mr. Benninghoven had served on the panel that designed the closures. When appointed to the Commission, Mr. Benninghoven, not surprisingly, cast what turned out to be the deciding vote to approve the very closures he had helped to design. Had he remained on the Commission, Mr. Benninghoven would also have voted on proposed new closures in the South Coast and North Coast regions.
“Governor Schwarzenegger should take this opportunity to appoint a new Commissioner who will be independent and objective about the implementation of the MLPA,” said Dan Wolford, Science Director for California’s Coastside Fishing Club. “Implementing the MLPA will cost California jobs and hurt our economy at the worst possible time. The very least we can ask is that a new commissioner has a fair and unbiased approach.”
Anglers, fisheries scientists and conservationists have roundly criticized flaws in the way that the MLPA has been implemented. Concerned recreational anglers have already hired attorneys to examine and, if necessary, to pursue a legal challenge in court on their behalf to the flawed way in which the MLPA has been and is being implemented.
“Now we need California’s anglers to step up and help us by donating to our effort to challenge this flawed MLPA process,” said Steve Fukuto, President of United Anglers of Southern California. “We need all California anglers to donate what they can to protect their right to fish in the Ocean.”
The recently formed Ocean Access Protection Fund will enable contributors to donate online through its website, www.OceanAccessProtectionFund.org.
The purpose of the Fund, which is operated by the nonprofit group United Anglers of Southern California, is to provide the financial support necessary to maintain legal challenges involving the MLPA as well as future threats to recreational access to ocean and coastal waters.

UPDATE - New Location for Upcoming MLPA Scoping Meeting

2010-07-21T17:21:00.001-07:00

UPDATE - New Location for Upcoming MLPA Scoping Meeting

Attend the meeting and make sure the interests of recreational anglers are heard!

When: Friday, July 23, 2010
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Where: Hyatt Regency Long Beach
200 South Pine Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90802

IMPORTANT!

The meeting location for the July 23, 2010 scoping meeting for the South Coast phase of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) has been changed. Originally set to be held at the Port of Long Beach Administration Building, the meeting has been relocated to the Hyatt Regency Long Beach.

The purpose of the meeting is to receive input from interested agencies and the public on issues related to the potential environmental effects of the MPA proposals being considered for the South Coast region.

Please attend the public meeting on July 23 to ensure that anglers have a strong presence! The public will have an opportunity to comment at the meeting. Let the department know how important recreational fishing is to you and your family, and that additional marine reserves do not always mean more - or better - conservation! If you are unable to attend the meeting in person, written comments may be e-mailed to tnapoli@dfg.ca.gov.

Visit www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp#presentations for more information on the July 23 meeting.

MLPA - Public Meeting - Monitoring Plan

2010-07-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Invitation to Attend Public Workshop on Development

of a South Coast Marine Protected Areas Monitoring Plan

The California Marine Protected Areas Monitoring Enterprise (MPA Monitoring Enterprise), in cooperation with the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), invites you to attend a public workshop to inform the development of an MPA monitoring plan for the South Coast region (Point Conception to the California/Mexico border).

These workshops will:

Describe the role and function of the MPA Monitoring Enterprise;
Provide an overview of the anticipated process and timeline to develop the South Coast MPA Monitoring Plan;
Present information about the MPA monitoring framework and approach developed to meet MLPA requirements; and
Offer an opportunity for participants to provide input on MPA monitoring perspectives and priorities.

This workshop will take place in three locations in the south coast region (all times are approximately 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). All workshops will have the same format and agenda, which will be posted on the MPA Monitoring Enterprise website and distributed to participants who RSVP (see below) prior to the events:

Monday, July 19: Santa Barbara
Fess Parker’s Doubletree
633 East Cabrillo Boulevard
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 564-4333

Tuesday, July 20: Santa Monica
Marriott-Le Merigot Beach Hotel
1740 Ocean Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90401-3214
(800) 785-8708

Monday, July 26: Carlsbad
Hilton Garden Inn
6450 Carlsbad Boulevard
Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 476-0800

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by Wednesday, July 14 to Christine Lim (clim@kearnswest.com or 415-391-7900) with the date/location you will attend. Lunch will be provided for those who RSVP.

Please feel free to forward this email to other members of the public who would be interested in attending. Additionally, the MPA Monitoring Enterprise has started a listserv for announcements and updates. If you’d like to subscribe to receive email updates and information, please click here.

Please contact Christine Lim (see email address above) with any questions. For more information about the MPA Monitoring Enterprise, please visit http://calost.org/monitoring_ent.html.

Thank you in advance,

MPA Monitoring Enterprise

MPA Monitoring Enterprise

California’s Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) requires monitoring to: ensure the MPAs meet MLPA goals; facilitate adaptive management of MPAs; and improve understanding of marine systems. The MPA Monitoring Enterprise was developed under the auspices of the California Ocean Science Trust to work in partnership with the Department of Fish and Game and others to lead development of monitoring that meets these requirements. The MPA Monitoring Enterprise does not have a role in MPA planning or adoption.

More South Coast Meeting to be held

2010-06-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

Sacramento, CA -- June 29, 2010 - In response to requests made by the Partnership for Sustainable Oceans (PSO), United Anglers of Southern California (UASC) and the city of Redondo Beach, the California Fish and Game Commission has agreed to schedule one scoping meeting for the South Coast phase of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) at a time, date and place to be announced. The decision was announced during the June 23-24, Commission meeting held in Folsom, California.

Scoping meetings provide the public, stakeholder organizations, governmental agencies and other interested parties the chance to weigh in on issues related to the potential environmental effects of marine protected area proposals being considered by the Commission.

The PSO, UASC, and the city of Redondo Beach each submitted letters requesting scoping meetings after learning that the Fish and Game Commission initially intended to bypass the scoping meeting process for the South Coast Region.

"While we're pleased that the Commission has acknowledged the need for the scoping meeting process in the South Coast, a single meeting for the region is not nearly adequate for such an important issue," commented Steven Fukuto, president of UASC and a PSO member. "This is yet another example of the MLPA process being rushed to implementation without buy-in and input from the very people it will impact."

"Multiple scoping meetings were held for both the Central and North Central Coasts, and I see no reason why the South Coast should receive less," said Paul Lebowitz, director of the Kayak Fishing Association of California and PSO member. "Giving South Coast residents only one opportunity to voice their concerns regarding the MPAs about to be imposed on them is not enough. Given the complexity, magnitude and scope of what is being proposed, the decisions made now will have consequences for generations."

"Anglers need to make their voices heard and tell the Commission that they demand to be treated fairly in the South Coast," said Fukuto. "I call upon anglers throughout Southern California to go to www.KeepAmericaFishing.org and send an e-mail to the Commission urging them to hold a series of scoping meetings in the South Coast. One is just not enough."

Lebowitz concluded, "It is incumbent upon the commission to correct this oversight by scheduling a series of scoping meetings to help facilitate the most informed and enlightened MLPA outcome possible. The recreational angling community in Southern California deserves no less."

Send a letter to Fish & Game on Scoping Meeting

2010-06-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

http://capwiz.com/keepamericafishing/issues/alert/?alertid=15177801

Urge the California Fish and Game Commission to Hold Scoping Meetings for the South Coast Phase of the MLPA

The Commission plans to railroad the process and bypass these important meetings

Background

In order to gather information essential to the development of Environmental Impact Reports for the implementation of marine protected areas (MPAs) along the Central and North Central Coasts, the California Fish and Game Commission held a series of scoping meetings under the state's Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA). The purpose of the scoping meetings was to solicit input from other agencies, the public, stakeholder organizations and other interested parties on issues related to the potential environmental effects of the MPA proposals being considered.

This is not the case with the South Coast. In an attempt to meet rushed and arbitrary deadlines, the Fish and Game Commission is not planning to schedule these important and necessary meetings for the South Coast. Given the complexity and heightened controversy surrounding the South Coast process, public scoping meetings are essential to ensure that all the potential impacts of MPAs along the South Coast are heard.

What You Can Do

Click here to send a letter to the Fish and Game Commission urging them to hold scoping meetings on the South Coast MPA Project Environmental Impact Report. Without stakeholder input, the Commission will continue to unnecessarily accelerate the process and ignore the need for further input. Send your letter today!

Thank you for doing your part to Keep America Fishing!

Letter to stop Ca. Fish & Game - Opposing Don Benninghoven

2010-05-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick and easy link to send a letter on Keep America Fishing.org

keepamericafishing- Oppsing Don Benninghoven

MLPA - Public Meeting - Great Kid

2010-05-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

Please contact your representative and appose this MLPA board.

One Cool Tuna..

Tuna Fishing - Saving Fishing

2010-03-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Pole & line Tuna Fishing from Jonathan Clay on Vimeo.

My Montage 1/15/10 at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-03-21T19:26:00.001-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Blue Ribbon Taskforce Meeting

2009-11-08T08:34:00.001-08:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF)

What: Addressing confusion regarding public comment at the reconvened BRTF meeting

Where: See statement below and attached in PDF

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Public Comment at the Reconvened MLPA

Blue Ribbon Task Force Meeting on November 10, 2009

The California Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Initiative is committed to an open and transparent processto help the State of California develop an improved system of marine protected areas (MPAs). A key element of the MLPA Initiative is creating opportunities for effective stakeholder and interested public participation.

The MLPA Initiative includes a regional stakeholder group in each study region that develops MPA proposals with the assistance of the task force, a science advisory team, the California Department of Fish and Game, California Department of Parks and Recreation, and a team of staff and contractors, as well as significant input from the interested public.

The MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force has received three MPA proposals from the MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group (SCRSG) and determined on October 22, 2009 that all three should be forwarded to the California Fish and Game Commission, along with a preferred alternative that could be one of the three or an integrated blend of them.

The task force received over ten thousand written comments and over six hours of formal verbal public comment related to the Round 3 SCRSG MPA proposalsand the individual MPAs within different geographies, which have significantly helped inform the decision making process. These public comments are in addition to the over fifteen hours of formal verbal public comment, and hundreds of hours of informal input and feedback, received by the SCRSG during its deliberations.

On October 22, 2009, the task force incorporated information from public comments in its deliberations about potential MPA options to consider for the preferred alternative. Throughout its deliberations, the task force requested input from SCRSG members who are intimately familiar with the interests, concerns and values taken into consideration in developing the MPA proposals. At the end of the day, the task force had identified a subset of MPAs to be potentially included in a preferred alternative (referred to as “common MPAs”) and several key geographies where agreement had not been reached (referred to as “MPA options under consideration”); as a result, the task force recessed and will reconvene on November 10, 2009 to continue its deliberations on the preferred alternative. Members of the SCRSG have been invited to again participate in the meeting and their direct input will be an important element of the task force deliberations.

The public has also been offered an additional opportunity for submitting written comments during the nearly three week recess. In the key geographies with MPA options under considerationby the task force, the public has continued to provide written input, with up to several hundred comments each day since October 22; some of those comments are quite specific, with details about suggested boundary shifts, regulation changes, or new information that has not been previously submitted to the process, which are the most helpful types of comments to the task force at this point in time. Members of the public have been clearly indicating if they are writing about MPA options in a specific geography being considered by the task force or the Round 3 SCRSG MPA proposals.

Consistent with the long-standing practice of taking public comment on action items, the public will have an opportunity to provide verbal comment to the task force prior to a vote to adopt a preferred alternative. The task force has previously heard significant public comment on this subject at the first part of its meeting on October 21; therefore, the task force will request that comments on the motion to adopt a preferred alternative be specific to the action item and focused on any new information that has not been previously disclosed. Members of the public with new information to share with the task force are requested to designate a spokesperson who can represent their viewpoint; speakers will be asked to indicate on their comment card the details of the new information to be presented. The task force will also look to SCRSG members to actively provide a voice for public interests.

_______________________________________________
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MLPAInitiative@lists.ceres.ca.gov
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Bloodydecks Notice on MLPA meeting

2009-10-18T11:25:00.001-07:00

SHOW UP & STAND UP!

When: October 21, 2009
Where: Long Beach Hilton, 701 W. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA
Time: Protest 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Outside on Ocean Avenue Sidewalk)
Public Comment 1:30 PM (Please turn in your speaker card as early as possible)
Public Comment 7:00 PM (Please turn in your speaker card as early as possible)
Why: The Blue Ribbon Task force is scheduled to recommend which Marine Protected Area (MPA) proposal to move forward to the Fish and Game Commission (F&GC).

Your support for Work Group 2’s Proposal (WG2) is needed. WG2 has the support of recreational fishermen, commercial fishermen; has gained cross interest support; and minimizes the socio-economic impact on our communities.

This is it! We can’t stress how important it is that you show up to this meeting!

If you value our near-shore fishery and having access to it, now is the time to act. We have been keeping you abreast of the MLPA issues, and we are in the final leg of our battle to keep our fishing grounds open. There is no more important time than now to let your voice be heard. This is our LAST chance to let the BRTF know that we fishermen and fisherwomen support Map 2, the least restrictive to recreational fishing and with the least economic impact.

Oct. 21st is the last BRTF meeting and the most critical one of your fishing career. What you do on Oct. 21st will determine where you can fish (and for some--whether you can fish) for the rest of your life.

Bussing has been organized to take you to the meeting and back. Watermen's Alliance will feed you pizza and drinks. Wear black shirts and tags (tag furnished at the event). All we need is your support.

You need to show up to speak, and even if you don't speak, we need people to support and cede time to those who speak. Keep in mind that the fishermen were outnumbered 10:1 at the July 28, 2009 BRTF meeting (a day known as Bloody Tuesday). If the majority of the attendees again say "We need to close as much of the ocean as possible" and "Fishermen are the problem", you bet the BRTF will be paying attention and the maps will reflect accordingly.

By Oct. 22nd, some of you may be looking at the Salton Sea as your only remaining fishing option.

Please show up on Oct. 21st, 2009, but more importantly, please bring your wife, parents, children to show them the faces of the communities they will be hurting if they shut down areas where people make their livelihood and recreate.

Lots of BDers and people in other communities have worked long and hard to protect key fishing spots for you. Group 2 map is the ONLY map to back. Group 1 and 3 maps will KILL fishing in southern California.

Starting at 8:30am, the Regional Stakeholder Group Members will be presenting the three proposals to the BRTF. There will also be a question and answer session to allow each RSG member to express their individual point of view. Naturally, all of that is open to members of the public!

Most likely, the BRTF will begin their deliberations on their choice of a preferred alternative that morning. At the very least, they'll be thinking about it and working with staff to craft a suggested motion or motions.

That's where all you urgently valuable members of the public come in to express YOUR preference, YES ON 2. The first opportunity to do that will come at about 1:30pm, just after the lunch break. The staff will be gathering speaker cards all morning long.

So, it will be important for folks arriving later, to find out just exactly what went on that morning!

Bloodydecks has helped arrange bus transportation to the event. Busses will be leaving from San Diego, Riverside and Temecula with various pick up points along the way. Cost to ride the bus is $20 but will include a free half-day pass from one of the participating landings. For more information please follow these links:

General Bus Information Links:

Bus Info Link 1

Bus Info Link 2

Bus Route Information:

San Diego Info

Temecula Info

Riverside Info

GENERAL SUGGESTIONS FOR PUBLIC SPEAKING AT OCT. 21, 2009 BRTF MEETING

Acknowledgement: This document is the work of many from different fishing communities and websites. It’s done in spare time by multiple volunteers, who love diving and fishing and the ocean. It’s not supported or paid for by the mega-enviro foundations who paid for the MLPA implementation. So it is not spit-and-polish. We all have real jobs. We do not get paid by grants from some animal rights mega-group or some other corporate/enviro entities. However, like all underdog fishermen volunteer efforts in this process, it comes from the right place.

Please help by being there on October 21st, 2009 in Long Beach.

A) GENERAL COMMENT

The fishermen’s map is the Group 2 map. Period. That’s the one we all support (H&L, commercial, kayakfishing, pier fishermen, spearfishermen, etc.). Period.

Let us dispel the notion that Group 3 gives a shit about fishermen. That’s an enviro map and they don’t give a crap. The maps exceed what is required—the goal is to close as much as they can get away with. Let us also dispel the notion that Group 1 is a “cross-interest” map. There are so many things wrong with that map, and with the shenanigans involved in coming up with that map, that would take too long to discuss here.

As far as we’re concerned, for fisherman, there’s only one map that makes sense and balances socio-economic versus closures the best: the Group 2 map.

Remember the V for peace sign. Two fingers. Group 2. That’s us.

B) WHAT CAN I SPEAK ABOUT? (FOR YOU NEWBIES)

The easiest way to craft your speech, if you have never done one, is a 3-part speech.

1) My name is {fill in the blank}. I’m a {fisherman, kayakfisherman, spearfishermen, lobster diver, etc.} and a conservationist. I support Proposal 2 because it does the best job of balancing my needs as a ocean user versus closures.

2) I specifically like Proposal 2 shape for {fill in the blank—San Diego, La Jolla, Laguna, PV, Malibu, Point Dume, Santa Barbara, Catalina, whatever} because _________________.

3) I'm opposed to [Proposal 1 and/or 3] for {fill in the blank—San Diego, La Jolla, Laguna, PV, Malibu, Point Dume, Santa Barbara, Catalina, whatever} because ______________.

{Click here to see what is on the table NOW}

Using 1) 2) and 3) above as a framework, there is a lot of latitude for individual expression that may include issues about business losses, access issues, cultural and family values, family recreation and bonding, safety concerns (!), access issues(again!), subsistence, carbon footprint, costs, etc. -- or some combination. All of these issues will be relevant with the overwhelming majority of the BRTF members to varying degrees.

Create two speeches before you show up to the meeting: The first 30-second speech (between 80-100 words) needs to cover Points #1 and #2. The second 30-second speech can be an add-on and can expand on #2, or go into #3. But do not go over the 30-second (for the first speech) and 1-minute mark (for both speeches) since this is likely all the time you have. Remember—we make the most impact by the variety and number of people and the different logical points we can point out from our experience as ocean users.

C) DO NOT BE A TOOL FOR THE OTHER SIDE

What fishermen do NOT want to do, even inadvertently (because it will encourage the BRTF to substitute or mix and match or come up with new proposals out of thin air or worse, allow the enviros to capitalize on your acquiescence in one location and claim that there is cross-interest for their ENTIRE group 1 map or group 3 map):

1) I like [some particular MPA] in [Group 1 or 3 map] but not that particular MPA in Group 2. NO NO NO(!)

2) Anything that resembles (1) NO NO NO(!)

3) Anything that even faintly suggests that a segment of the fishing community supports ANY particular MPA location in Proposal 1 or Proposal 3. NO NO NO(!)

D) WHAT IS NOT USEFUL AT EITHER THE 1:30PM SESSION OR THE 7PM SESSION

First and foremost, Do not rant. Do not be disrespectful. Do not let your anger or emotion undo the work that hundreds of others have put in, involving tens of thousands of hours achieving so far for you. Trust us—you will be helping the other side more if you come across crude or ranting and you are identified with the fishermen side. This is not the time and place.

These following comments do NOT work AT ALL at this stage. AVOID THEM. There was a time and place for these and there will be a time and place for these again. Not at the Oct. 21st meeting either day or night sessions. These are no good even for the general comments during the evening session.

1) General complaints about MPA's -- not proven to work, not necessary, fishing regulations are a better approach, we already have too many, etc.

2) Stop the process -- lack of funding, no money for enforcement, monitoring, evaluation, adaptive management, etc.

3) Leave my NIMBY interest alone -- blame it on those other guys (commercial or rec or both), if only it wasn't for [fill in the blank] things would be just fine, make an exception for me everywhere, etc.

4) Anything that does not reference the current proposals as they are NOW -- complaints about concepts that used to be, former packages (like past External C), individual MPA concepts that once existed early in the process, etc. {Click here to see what is on the table NOW}

5) Complaints about what the BRTF has done in the past, unrelated to the current proposals.

6) Challenges to the science, partisan politics, the RSGs, the greenhaired lady in the audience, this group, that group, the governor, the DFG, individual BRTF members, etc.

There was a time and a place for almost all of the above. And there will be again, we’ll let you know when. Just don’t make these at the Oct. 21st meeting— you’ll be wasting your time and take valuable time away from others.

E) Q&As

1) Can you create a sample speech?

Sure. This is a sample speech but you can see how it flows.

My name is John Doe. I’m a fisherman and conservationist and I’ve fished La Jolla for most of my life, the last 7 years with my sons and wife. I support Proposal 2 because it does the best job of balancing my family needs as ocean users versus closures. I specifically like Proposal 2’s shape for La Jolla because it keeps the existing reserve at La Jolla Cove and additionally proposes to create Del Mar and North Point Loma reserves. These are good habitats for closure that will clearly support the goals of the MLPA.

Fishing in La Jolla is how our family bonds. (*Note 1: this is your 30-second speech. In general, count on 80-100 words every 30 seconds. *)

The Proposal 1 map for La Jolla is bad because it unnecessarily brackets both sides of Mission Bay, one of the busiest fishing ports in the world. Proposal 3 is bad because it closes off access for fishermen to a large area of La Jolla, where most of the shore access and fishable waters for millions of San Diegans are found. Impact to users and businesses will be devastating, and when a lot of boats are jammed into smaller open areas, danger to spearfishermen and kayakfishermen increases. Proposal 2 does the best job of balancing socio-economic interests versus closure by placing reserves in less populated areas. Thank you. (*Note 2: this is the second part of your 30-second speech. If you have a minute, then read this second part *).

2) Should I write my speech ahead?

It’s the only way. You will be cut off when your time (either 30 seconds or 1 minute) is up. Write two-part speech. The first 100 words is your 30-second speech. The second 100 words, if you have time, will help you finish your 1-minute speech if you are given 1 minute.

3) Should I read my speech or should I do a public speaking delivery?

No one is grading you on public speaking. Deliver your message in the most concise and accurate way. For me, that’s reading my prepared speech. I recommend it.

4) What about ceding time? I don’t want to speak.

New and interesting faces from the public are worth more than the same few faces and speeches heard over and over. We encourage you to speak. That’s why we spent time creating this document.

If you want to cede time (and we do need people to cede time), look for a spearfishermen or kayakfishermen representative. These two groups are coordinating ceding time for the entire fishermen side (last thing we want to do is stupidly cede time to a speaker from the other side (!) or leave any of our speakers short on cede time). Ask any spearfisherman for Zenspearo or Paul Romanowski or Jeff Sporcich or Volker Hoehne. Ask any kayakfishermen for Tyler Webb or Billy V or Holy Mackerel (Chris Fierro) or Grego. They will tell you what to do. PLEASE CONTACT THEM AT THE LATEST BY 1PM FOR THE AFTERNOON SESSION, OR BY 6PM FOR THE EVENING SESSION. THE MLPA PEOPLE WILL NOT (!) ACCEPT LATE CARDS.

5) What if I need more time for my speech? How can I get people to cede time to me?

Again, look for a spearfishermen or kayakfishermen representative. These two groups are coordinating ceding time for the entire fishermen side (last thing we want to do is stupidly cede time to a speaker from the other side (!) or leave any of our speakers short on cede time). Ask any spearfisherman for Zenspearo or Paul Romanowski or Jeff Sporcich or Volker Hoehne. Ask any kayakfishermen for Tyler Webb or Billy V or Holy Mackerel (Chris Fierro) or Grego. They will tell you what to do. PLEASE CONTACT THEM AT THE LATEST BY 1PM FOR THE AFTERNOON SESSION, OR BY 6PM FOR THE EVENING SESSION. THE MLPA PEOPLE WILL NOT (!) ACCEPT LATE CARDS.

6) Should I bring my wife and kids and neighbors?

Absolutely. Please do. We really mean it. This is the best thing you can do for your fishing.

Everyone, from 90 YO to 6-month old, gets the same amount of time. It’s very important that we have new faces and new voices. The few of us have spoken so many times, people are starting to tune us out. We need time cards for ceding time even if they don’t speak. Plus, your family and friends’ attendance will show that the public cares about closures that affect them.

7) Should we applause or cheer or jeer to show our approval/disapproval of someone’s speech?

In a word. No.

I know it’s aggravating, as you have seen in the tapes of the RSG meeting past, that fishermen get cut off on the dot (or even before they can speak), while conservation speakers are allowed to go on and on past their time. Let it slide. Our number will hopefully make up for it. As someone said after the August RSG meeting: It sucks; it’s not fair; it’s blatantly biased. Let it slide. Not easy, but you won’t help us much by getting kicked out either. Let it be.

8) How important is my attendance? I’m only one person. What difference does it make?

We fishermen got stomped by people acting on this impulse and did not attend the July 28 BRTF meeting. The ratio was 10:1 against fishermen. We looked pathetic.

This is the last MLPA meeting for the South Coast. We need your help, and we need you to bring your wife, husband, kids, friends, neighbors to show public support for fishing, to balance out the shouts for ridiculously large closures, and to cede time. Lots of fishermen, spearfishermen, kayakfishermen, need time to speak on behalf of all fishermen. Be there to help out fishing interests or we’ll all be fishing at Lake Hodges next year.

9) What color shirt are we wearing?

We are coordinating with black shirts. A collar shirt is preferred but nice clean t-shirt will do. Keep the R-rated ones at home.

We will also hand out a placard to help identify you as a fisherman at the meeting. These placards will be available on-site that day.

10) If I can’t speak about general comment topics in the evening session, what can I speak about?

Background: The MLPA I-team will not allow you to speak about a preferred map if you already spoke on that topic during the afternoon session.

First strategy: We need you there in the evening as well to cede time to the people who, due to extreme circumstances, can only make the evening session to speak. This is not preferred—we need people there for both the afternoon and evening sessions, but some can’t help it. For the evening speakers, we want to give them as much time as possible to speak. So stay around to at least cede time.

Second Strategy: There are some general comment topics that will be discussed. These will be coordinated among the veterans who have been around and know what they can say. They NEED more time from you. So please hang around and give the veterans your cede time in the evening session.

Third Strategy: Say you (John Doe) show up with your fishing buddy Jack Brown. You can speak in the afternoon on your support of Group 2’s map for your area, using the time ceded from Jack Brown, to more fully present your point of view. Then Jack can speak in the evening in support of Group 2’s map for whatever area he fishes in, using your cede time, to more fully present his point of view. Caveat: Now that we’ve said this, the MLPA I-team will probably try to change the rules to keep fishermen from speaking. So stay tuned.

11) What about transportation?

The hotel will validate your car. Try to carpool if possible. There will also be at least 3 buses running from San Diego, Temecula, and Riverside and rides can be obtained for a nominal cost of $20/person round trip. No driving, no parking, no hassle. Go here for more information.

12) What about food?

The Watermen’s Alliance will serve pizza and drinks to all fishermen wearing black at approximately 6PM that day on site.

13) Where do I get additional information?

Go to the following websites for latest info and updates:

Spearboard (*Check here first*)

Big Waters Edge

Bloodydecks

14) Who can I talk to if I have further questions?

Go to the following websites and post your question. Someone will respond.

Spearboard (*Check here first*)

Big Waters Edge

Bloodydecks

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

This is our last chance to make public comment with the BRTF. Be there at least 1 hour before the speaking times are due to start. The evening session will have free pizza for all fishermen in black shirts in attendance compliments of the Watermen's Alliance. If you don’t wear a black shirt, we assume you are going to speak against fishermen. Don’t worry, someone will still feed you but it’d be a veggie pizza and I’d check that slice of pizza carefully…just kidding…

Hilton Long Beach & Public Executive Meeting Center

701 West Ocean Blvd.

Long Beach, CA 90831

Public Speaking Times: 1:30PM-5PM and 7PM-10PM.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

See you on Oct. 21st in Long Beach.

Last Minute Meeting by the MLPA - CA. Attoney General Advice

2009-10-12T16:08:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: Members of the public

What: Invitation to attend as observers a briefing of the MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group and the MLPA Statewide Interests Group on a recent advice letter from the California Attorney General's office regarding marine protected areas and the Marine Managed Areas Improvement Act

When: October 14, 2009 at 8:00 a.m.

Where: Teleconference/webinar or in-person with staff at four locations (San Diego, Los Alamitos, Santa Barbara and Sacramento). Please see attached draft briefing agenda for details.

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative
SCRSG and SIG Briefing Regarding AG Advice Letter
Draft Agenda
(revised October 11, 2009)
* This facility is accessible to persons with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodations for a disability,
please contact California Relay Service (at least two days prior to the meeting) at 800.735.2929 (TT) or
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
8:00 a.m.
via teleconference and online meeting
Toll-free conference call Presentations via GoToMeeting
Dial-in number: 800.697.5978 Make your reservation now at
Passcode: 941 2446 https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/871317953
For public onsite teleconference and webinar access:
Resources Building *
1416 Ninth Street, Room 1305
Sacramento, CA 95814
California Department of Fish and Game *
4665 Lampson Avenue, Suite C
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Southwest Fisheries Science Center *
3333 North Torrey Pines Court, Room 380 La Jolla, CA 92037-1022
UCSB Marine Science Institute
Marine Science Research Building*
Santa Barbara, CA 93106-6150
Public Participation: Members of the public are invited to observe the meeting using the toll-free phone number and to watch presentations via the GoToMeeting webinar, or may join staff at one of the offices listed above. In addition, the meeting is being simultaneously webcast; see the MLPA website (http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp) for more information.
Public parking is available at no charge at the above locations except for the Marine Science Research Building and the Resources Building.
(1) The Marine Science Research Building is most easily accessed via bus from downtown Santa Barbara or Goleta by taking the UCSB express; directions and bus stop times are available at http://www.sbmtd.gov/Lines/Line_24x.htm. Alternatively, UCSB campus visitor parking passes can be requested by contacting Satie Airame at airame@msi.ucsb.edu.
(2) The Resources Building is most easily accessed via the Light Rail Blue and Gold lines (http://www.sacrt.com/systemmap/central.stm). Parking in downtown Sacramento is via a city garage or metered street parking; members of the public can be reimbursed by staff at the building for any parking fees.
Public Comment: This briefing is for MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group and MLPA Statewide Interests Group members and is not a public meeting; as such, there is no public comment period set. Members of the public are invited to observe the briefing.
800.735.2922 (

Action Required to save Fishing

2009-10-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

Dear One Cool Tuna Friends

It is a critical time in the development of the MLPA phase for the south coast, and we need your help. Please click the link below and send an e-mail in support of Proposal 2, one of the three options and the only one that would minimize the damage to recreational fishing. It takes just a few seconds and could make the difference in our fishing future.

Thank you

Jeff - Cool Tuna

Blue Ribbon Task Force Nearing Recommendation on Recreational Fishing Access in the South Coast - Take Action! Letters from anglers and boaters needed to persuade BRTF to support Proposal 2

The Situation

At its upcoming October 20-22 meeting, the Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF) is scheduled to vote on which marine protected area (MPA) proposal to recommend for the South Coast under the state's Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA). The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans (PSO), which represents the interests of recreational anglers and boaters, is supporting Proposal 2 for the South Coast. Proposal 2 places MPAs in locations with a high level of conservation while minimizing the economic impact on local communities and still allows anglers maximum access to fishing. It is the only proposal that truly reflects the spirit of conservation.

SEND YOUR MESSAGE NOW!

To protect as much recreational fishing opportunity as possible, send a letter to the BRTF in support of Proposal 2. The Task Force needs to hear from you before its upcoming vote - send your letter now!

Thank you for doing your part to Keep America Fishing!

New Maps - On-Line interactive

2009-09-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: Work groups of the MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group (SCRSG)

What: Final SCRSG marine protected area proposals, including:

* Narrative rationale for the overall proposal

* Overview map

* Descriptions of individual MPAs with allowed uses and site-specific rationales

* Habitat calculations

* Subregional maps

* Supplementary information developed by the work groups

When: Now available online, in print form, and on CD.

Additional materials will be posted as they become available.

Where: MLPA website: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/scrsg-dprops-r3.asp

MarineMap: http://www.marinemap.org/marinemap/

Print form or CD: Contact the MLPA office at MLPAOffice@resources.ca.gov or 916.654.1885

MLPA South Coast Public Comments - Oct. 21 2009

2009-09-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement Guidelines for Providing Public Comment to the
MLPA South Coast Project

Who:               Members of the public

What:              Opportunities to provide public comment on the MLPA South Coast Project

Where:            MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF) meeting
                        Hilton Long Beach & Executive Meeting Center
                        701 West Ocean Blvd
                        Long Beach, CA 90831

When:             Public comment will be taken on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at approximately 1:30 p.m.
                        and again at approximately 7:00 p.m.

How:
The public is invited to provide comments directly related to recommending a preferred marine protected area (MPA) proposal for the MLPA South Coast Study Region, the primary purpose for this BRTF meeting.

1. Specific public comment will be taken beginning at approximately 1:30 p.m. for approximately three hours. All comments provided at this time should be focused on recommending a preferred MPA proposal for the MLPA South Coast Study Region.

Feedback on specific shape boundaries, types (classifications) of MPAs, and location of proposed MPAs is valuable. Do you support what is being proposed? If not, can you offer a specific change in shape, classification and/or location?

2. General public comment related to the MLPA Initiative will be taken from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The public may speak to broader topics involving the BRTF or provide comments directly related to recommending a preferred MPA proposal for the south coast.

We request that speakers chose one comment period in which to speak.. See below for specific guidelines for providing effective public comment.

3. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted by midnight on October 11, 2009. Written comments will still be accepted after October 11, however comments received after midnight on October 11 will not be received by the BRTF in advance of the October 20-22 meeting.

Opportunities for the public to learn about the Round 3 final regional stakeholder group MPA proposals include:

Review Round 3 final SCRSG proposals on the MLPA website after Thursday, September 24 (visit the popular resources box at www.dfg.gov.ca/mlpa).

On Wednesday, October 21, 2009, screenshots of each final SCRSG MPA proposal will be available for public viewing outside of the general meeting room.

Please refer to the below and attached document, Guidelines for Providing Public Comment to the MLPA Initiative South Coast Project for additional information.

Guidelines for Providing Public Comment to the
Marine Life Protection Act South Coast Project

The Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Initiative is designed as a transparent, science-based and stakeholder-driven process. As such, public comment is important to the success of the marine protected area (MPA) planning process. There are different methods available for public comment listed below.

Verbal Comments at Meetings

All meetings of the MLPA Initiative process will offer a minimum of one opportunity for public comment. Guidelines for general public comment at meetings include:

· Comment cards will be available approximately 1.5 hours before the start of each public comment period. Speakers are requested to choose one comment period in which to speak.

· Comment cards are requested to be submitted 15 minutes before the start of a public comment period. No new comment cards will be accepted once the comment period has begun. Speakers must be present and turn in their own cards (this also applies to all individual speakers who wish to cede their time to other speakers).

· Comment cards will be counted and, at the discretion of staff or the chair, the time allocated to each speaker will be based on the total available time and number of individuals wishing to speak. Time allotments will be enforced.

· Speakers with a shared message or from the same organization are encouraged to combine speaking points. Additional time for comment will be given to these ‘spokespeople’ and those who have ceded their time can stand to show support.

· Speakers with ceded time will be placed at the front of the queue. All other members of the public will be invited to speak in the order the speaker cards are received.

· Speakers are welcome to distribute written material to the audience. Other media presentations, such as slides and videos, are only permitted by prior arrangement (contact Kelly Sayce at 310-738-2665 or kelly@strategicoceansolutions.com) and may be limited depending on time availability. Please arrive early and let staff know if you have a media presentation. An alternate space in the venue will be provided for displaying any additional media information, as needed and as space is available.

· The time for public comment will be noticed in the agenda for each meeting.

o For the upcoming MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force meeting:

· On October 21, 2009 specific public comment will be taken at approximately 1:30 p.m. for approximately three hours. All comments provided at this time should be directly related to developing a final recommended MPA proposal for the south coast.

· On October 21, 2009 general public comment will be taken at approximately 7:00-9:30 p.m.

o We request that you choose one comment period in which to speak at the upcoming BRTF meeting. If you request to speak during both comment periods, your comments during the evening session must be related to something other than developing the preferred MPA proposal to recommend for the south coast.

· An atmosphere of respect and consideration among the public is essential for a productive comment period. Verbal threats, hostile comments, clapping, jeering and the like will not be tolerated and may lead to immediate dismissal.

Written Comments

Written comments are accepted on an ongoing basis via email, fax or mail. All written comments are collated on a weekly basis and distributed to the south coast regional stakeholder group, blue ribbon task force (BRTF), and staff, as well as the science advisory team if the comments are science related.

Written comments on Round 3 final proposals are encouraged to be submitted by midnight on October 11, 2009 so that BRTF members receive them in advance of the October meeting. Written comments will still be accepted after October 11; however, comments received after October 11 will not be received by the BRTF in advance of the October 20-22 meeting.

Comments to the MLPA Initiative can be submitted using any one of the following methods:

Email
MLPAComments@resources.ca.gov

Mail
Marine Life Protection Act Initiative
c/o California Natural Resources Agency
1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311
Sacramento, CA 95814

FAX
916.653.8102

______________________________

_________________
MLPAInitiative mailing list
MLPAInitiative@lists.ceres.ca.gov
To subscribe, unsubscribe, or change list options please visit:
https://lists.ceres.ca.gov/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/mlpainitiative

Next Meeting - MLPA

2009-09-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

OneCoolTuna would like to inform you about the next meeting -

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: The MLPA Initiative invites members of the public interested in learning more about redesigning marine protected areas (MPAs) for the north coast

What: Save the date for a public workshop to:

· Receive an introduction to the MLPA and MLPA Initiative

· Review the north coast MPA planning process

· Learn the necessary components of an MPA proposal, including science and feasibility guidelines

· Receive basic training in MarineMap, the MLPA Initiative’s online mapping tool

When: Tuesday, September 29, 2009, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Staff will also be available on Wednesday, September 30 at multiple locations to answer more detailed and specific questions.

Where: Workshop to be held in Eureka with staffed satellite locations in Crescent City and Fort Bragg. Venues to be determined, but will include in-person, teleconference and webinar options to allow you to participate from any number of locations.

RSVP: Light refreshments will be served for in-person participants. To ensure adequate food, beverage and seating, please RSVP for in-person participation to Delbra Gibbs (916.424.8897 or dga_mlpa@sbcglobal.net).

Last Push to save Fishing

2009-09-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Is that clear enough?

The MLPA process is almost over and it’s not looking good for the fisherman by ANY measure. TO BE CLEAR, if you are a fishermen this IS going to change where you fish and what you catch for the WORSE. This WILL put landings, tackle stores, marinas and charter boats out business. This WILL take jobs from honest, hardworking people who do what they love for a living.

What can you do?

There are two more KEY dates left in this battle. It’s NOT too late. YOU can still make a difference.

We need YOU. YES YOU! Plain and simple we need BODIES to win this battle.

The first event you can attend is your local AWARENESS RALLY. There are currently three of these organized for this Saturday September 5, 2009. PLEASE come out and bring your trailer boat, kayak, etc. with you for a PEACEFULL drive around your local Marinas and Launch Areas. There will be flyers, stickers and banners available to dress your vehicles up for the rally. PLEASE make every effort to attend and GET YOUR BUDDIES involved.

Here are links to the events:

San Diego Rally

Orange County Rally

Los Angeles Rally

These Rallys are all to raise awareness for the LAST PUBLIC MLPA MEETING on September 10, 2009 . IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING for the MLPA battle, PLEASE BE AT THIS MEETING.

Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles
6101 W. Century Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90045

If you would like to learn more about the MLPA Process, please see www.YesFishing.org

If you would like to discuss the MLPA and get up to the minute news, please see Marine Life Protection Act Initiative (MLPA) -

I know a lot of you are BURNT on the MLPA issue (myself included!) but this is the final stretch and we need one last push! The awesome angler turn out at the Santa Ana meetings truly made an impact. It’s time to make ourselves seen and heard AGAIN.

Thanks very much for your support.

Ali Hussainy
Bloodydecks LLC

Changes in the MLPA

2009-08-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force Chair Don Benninghoven

What: Appointed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to the California Fish and Game Commission

When: Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Chair Benninghoven stepped down from the MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force as he took on his new responsibilities as a member of the state commission that oversees the protection and management of California's fish and wildlife. Secretary for Resources Mike Chrisman will soon name a new chair to the task force.

GAAS:421:09

For Immediate Release: Contact: Aaron McLear

Tuesday, August 4, 2009 Rachel Cameron

916-445-4571

Governor Schwarzenegger Announces Appointment

Meeting tonight in Carlsbad

2009-06-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the overview of the Open House Meetings, that was posted by Big Joe on Bloodydecks. Please read it over and make sure you attend one of your local meetings.

http://www.bloodydecks.com/forums/marine-life-protection-act-initiative-mlpa/148940-mlpa-local-open-houses-very-important.html

or click here

BloodyDecks Link

Latest round of changes

2009-06-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the latest round of changes.
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/scrsg-dprops-r2.asp

Also some local meetings are coming to San Diego this week.
Monday, June 29
Hilton Garden Inn
6450 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad, CA 92011
(760) 476-0800

Tuesday, June 30
Marina Village Conference Center
1936 Quivira Way
San Diego, CA 92109
(619) 222-1620

Wednesday, July 1
Aliso Creek Inn
31106 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 499-2271

Please attend and get informed..

List of Ca. Senators - Emails

2009-06-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

Please contact your State Senator at the following email.

senator lois wolk senator.wolk@sen.ca.gov
senator darrell steinberg senator.steinberg@sen.ca.gov
senator elaine alquist senator.alquist@sen.ca.gov
senator roderick wright senator.wright@sen.ca.gov
senator ronald calderon senator.calderon@sen.ca.gov
senator gloria negrete mc leod senator.mcleod@sen.ca.gov
senator lou correa senator.correa@sen.ca.gov
senator denise ducheny senator.ducheny@sen.ca.gov

Open House Meeting - San Diego Finally

2009-06-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Please Attend one of these meetings to get updates and voice your opinion on the MLPA
******************************************************************

California's Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Initiative Staff and the General Public

What: South Coast Summer Public Open Houses (attached and also available on the website)

When: June 29, 30, and July 1, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 13

5:30 - 8:30 pm

The Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) requires the state to examine and redesign California’s system of marine protected areas. The public is invited to come to these open houses anytime each evening to visit informational stations, review and comment on draft marine protected area proposals, provide input on particular areas of interest and ask questions of staff and regional stakeholders. See attached flier for more details.

All are welcome to attend*. The open houses are all scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Drop by anytime!

Monday, June 29
Hilton Garden Inn
6450 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad, CA 92011

Tuesday, June 30
Marina Village Conference Ctr.
1936 Quivira Way
San Diego, CA 92109

Wednesday, July 1
Aliso Creek Inn
31106 S. Coast Hwy.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Monday, July 6
Simons Banquet Center
Ports O Call Village, Berth 80
1050 Nagoya Way
San Pedro, CA 90731

Tuesday, July 7
Marina del Rey Hotel
13534 Bali Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Wednesday, July 8
Residence Inn
2101 W Vineyard Ave.
Oxnard, CA 93036

Thursday, July 9
Fess Parker's Doubletree
633 East Cabrillo Blvd.
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
$2 parking fee

Monday, July 13
Catalina Island
Location TBD

What if I can’t attend one of the public open houses?
If you are not able to attend, you may also provide your feedback by sending a message to MLPAComments@resources.ca.gov or by mail to MLPA Initiative, c/o California Natural Resources Agency, 1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311, Sacramento, CA 95814. Your comments will be most helpful if received no later than July 19, 2009 so that they can be distributed to the SCRSG and BRTF members prior to the start of Round 3.

*Opportunities for the non-English speaking public to provide input will also be made available

Next Meeting

2009-06-09T09:39:00.001-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team

What: Tenth meeting and draft agenda (attached and also posted to the MLPA website)

When: June 18, 2009 at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Embassy Suites Hotel North

9601 Airport Boulevard

Los Angeles, California 90054

and via simultaneous webcast (on the day of the meeting) at

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp (see attached for details).

______________________________

Next Meeting of the MLPA

2009-06-02T11:35:00.000-07:00

You Need To Be Here Thursday
You Will Loose Your Right To Fish
What: Blue Ribbon Task Force Meeting

When: Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. General public comment (not specific to a particular agenda item) will be taken at approximately 9:40 a.m.

Where: Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel
6101 West Century Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90045

We need a large turnout. The BRTF may limit the amount of time (as low as one minute) for each member of the public to speak. Be ready and speak directly to the point. The BRTF may also change the time of the public comment so please plan on waiting for a while.

For those of you unable to attend you can still make your opinion be heard via email or regular mail. Can't Attend- Send an E Mail or US Mail Now

Go to: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/publicinvolvement_sc.asp
Email to: MLPAComments@resources.ca.gov

Or mail to:Marine Life Protection Act/Initiative
c/o California Natural Resource Agency
1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1311
Sacramento, CA 95814

Thursday 21 May 2009
Fukuto Needs You Thursday
Steve Fukuto, president of United Anglers of Southern California and a PSO member. "The PSO has repeatedly expressed our concerns regarding the lack of scientific data and guidance from the BRTF, as well as the blind adherence to an arbitrary timeline," continued Doerr. "The blatant bias shown after the most recent RSG meeting is the latest example of how the South Coast process has gone awry, and it is also the incident of greatest concern for the recreational fishing and boating communities."

"As the process of deciding what portions of California's coastline will be designated as MPAs, and therefore off-limits for recreational fishing, the parameters keep changing." Doerr further said, "Repeated requests from the PSO and numerous other stakeholder groups to slow down the implementation process and address the very real issues of future funding and better scientific data, have fallen on deaf ears."

For more information about the MLPA and the Partnership for Sustainable Oceans and to sign up for action alerts, go to www.keepamericafishing.org/california.

Ca Fisheries Coalition Website

2009-05-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

http://www.cafisheriescoalition.org/

Great info on MLPA - Read Western Outdoors News as well.

Latest Statement from MLPA Task-force 05-15-09

2009-05-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force Chair Don Benninghoven

What: Statement regarding progress in implementing the Marine Life

Protection Act Initiative (see below)

When: Earlier today

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Melissa Miller-Henson

May 14, 2009 530.400.2545

Ken Wiseman

916.533.6971

Chair Don Benninghoven Issues Statement on Progress in

Implementing the Marine Life Protection Act Initiative

Today MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force Chair Don Benninghoven issued the following statement on the progress being made to implement the Marine Life Protection Act Initiative in California:

"Recently the MLPA Initiative has experienced strong criticism, which is to be expected when engaged in a significant, cutting-edge effort to provide for a more balanced use of our ocean. We are confident in our mission to hear and consider all perspectives as we move forward in southern California that we can balance efforts to provide maximum ocean protection while limiting short-term economic impacts.

“A collaboration of public and private partners is supporting a dedicated team of over 80 stakeholders, scientists and community partners to develop and release to the public in the next few weeks the first set of draft marine protected area proposals for the study region. The draft proposals identify different ways the state can reconfigure its marine protected areas to help ensure the state’s marine ecosystem has greater protection.

“Stakeholders are making tremendous strides in their efforts to maximize habitat protection while minimizing, to the extent possible, economic impacts. I applaud their efforts working as a team to consider multiple viewpoints on how best to redesign MPAs in California waters; in doing so they are also using the best readily available data that is displayed in a GIS-based system on the Internet that is available to everyone, including the public.

"This is an unparalleled effort to gather the best readily available science and data related to ocean ecosystems and marine protected areas and to apply it in the real world. With an ongoing public-private partnership providing a solid foundation of over $8 million in private funds for completing the redesign process along the coast and to begin planning in San Francisco Bay, we fully expect to complete our task in late 2010 as planned.

“In January of this year Secretary Mike Chrisman reiterated the Schwarzenegger Administration’s tireless commitment to completing this planning process and for ensuring adequate funding for implementation. He also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships, such as the MLPA Initiative, in making long-term management most effective, whether for enforcement, outreach, education or on-site management.

“Similar criticisms about the MLPA Initiative were made during the north central coast process in 2007 and, yet, in 2008 the MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force forwarded to the commission four marine protected area proposals, including an integrated preferred alternative that was developed based upon the extensive work of 45 stakeholders representing a variety of interests during a 15-month redesign process. The integrated preferred alternative received support from a diversity of interests, from fishermen and divers to conservationists and the general public.

"Everyone agrees that healthy oceans are good for the economy. We are all stewards looking for a balanced use and protection of California’s marine resource for current and future generations. Next month we begin work in the north coast study region and expect to engage with another exceptional group of stakeholders and community partners to help California achieve this goal.”

______________________________

Next Blue Ribbon - Webcast Only

2009-05-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force What: Seventh meeting and draft agenda (see attached)
When: Friday, May 8, 2009 at 12:00 noon
Where: Via conference call and webinar

Toll-free conference call (to participate during public comment) Dial-in number: 800.697.5978
Passcode: 5499680

Presentations via GoToMeeting (to view presentations in large format)

Make your reservation now at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/389320216

and via simultaneous webcast (on the day of the meeting only) at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp (to view/listen only

Road Trip for MLPA Staff

2009-04-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

MLPA Initiative Staff and SCRSG Field Trip: Friday, April 30
On Friday, April 30 members of the SCRSG and MLPA Initiative staff are taking a field trip of the Oxnard-Malibu portion of the study region, beginning at the Channel Islands Harbor and ending at Malibu Bluff Park.

The public is invited to join us along the way.
Below is information about the stops we are making and the approximate time we will be arriving at each; we are likely to be a few minutes early or late for one or more stops, depending on traffic. Staff who will be available by cell phone during the day (especially if we are running late and you want an ETA) include Kelly Sayce (310.738.2665), Melissa Miller-Henson (530.400.2545) and Evan Fox (650.387.9306). If you are meeting us, look for the DFG van!

8:15 - 9:30 a.m. – Channel Islands HarborWe will be meeting at the launch ramp.

10:15 - 11:15 a.m. – Chumash VillageNicholas Canyon County Beach 33904 Pacific Coast HwyMalibu, CA 90265805-794-1248(The Village is south of the county parking lot. Head to northeast corner of parking lot and drive down access road to Village entrance and park inside project site)

1:30 - 2:00 p.m. – Paradise Cove 28128 Pacific Coast HwyMalibu, CA 90265(Tell parking attendant you are meeting with the MLPA Initiative)

2:15 - 3:00 p.m. - Malibu Bluff Park 24250 Pacific Coast HwyMalibu, CA 90265

Map of tour locations can be found at: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=103609279872483057979.000466e65d39df97eccb2

Next Meeting - 4-28-09

2009-04-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group
What: REVISED Meeting Agenda

When: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Residence Inn by Marriott at River Ridge

2101 West Vineyard Avenue - Oxnard, California - 93036

Via simultaneous webcast on the day of the meeting at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp

Note: Agenda item "L" and agenda section "VI" have been moved up to 9:45 a.m. (approximately), therefore agenda items B-K will be delayed by approximately an hour. The April 28 meeting is still scheduled to adjourn at 6:00 p.m.

Next Meeting of the MLPA

2009-03-23T09:51:00.000-07:00

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Announcement

Who: MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team

What: Seventh meeting and draft agenda (see below)

When: Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. and Monday, April 6, 2009 at 1:30 p.m.

Where: Los Angeles (April 1) and teleconference/webinar (April 6), and on the day of
the meeting (for viewing or listening only), via simultaneous webcast at
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp. See details below.

California Marine Life Protection Act Initiative
MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team
Draft Meeting Agenda
(revised March 19, 2009)

Wednesday, April 1, 2009
9:30 AM

Embassy Suites Hotel North*
9801 Airport Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90254

AND

Monday, April 6, 2009
1:30 PM
Via teleconference and online meeting (webinar)

Toll-free conference call
Dial-in number: 800.697.5978
Passcode: 8527564

Presentations via GoToMeeting
Make your reservation now at
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/686253834

Public participation: On Wednesday April 1, members of the public are invited to attend the meeting in person or may view and listen to the meeting only via simultaneous webcasting on the Internet (see the MLPA website (www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp) for more information about simultaneous webcasting). On Monday, April 6, members of the public are invited to attend the meeting and provide comment using the toll-free phone number and to watch presentations via the webinar link, or may use the MLPA offices listed above to listen, watch and provide comment. It is important that members of the public attending the meeting via conference call clearly state their first and last name when prompted by the operator to ensure that you are able to provide comments. Both portions of the meeting may be viewed in an archived version approximately two days after the meeting.

Public comment: The public will be invited by the co-chairs to offer comments on agenda action items. General comments on the work of the MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team (SAT), not directed to specific agenda items, will be taken after lunch at approximately 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 and at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2009. Note that the general comment period is for comments specific to the MLPA SAT; comments related to the regional stakeholder group, task force or other MLPA Initiative activities should be directed to those bodies or MLPA staff. Meeting materials will not be provided at the meeting but will be posted to the MLPA website as soon as they are available. This agenda may be found on the MLPA website at http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/meetings_sc.asp.

Meeting Objectives
· Discuss and potentially approve the MLPA Master Plan Science Advisory Team (SAT) response to the MLPA Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF) request regarding U.S. Department of Defense "military use areas"
· Review, discuss and potentially approve level of protection designations
· Review, discuss and potentially approve the SAT evaluations of draft external marine protected area (MPA) proposals and MLPA South Coast Regional Stakeholder Group (SCRSG) draft MPA arrays
· Review, discuss and potentially approve the water quality evaluation methods for MPA proposals in the MLPA South Coast Study Region
· Review and discuss draft document regarding beach manipulation activities in the MLPA South Coast Study Region
· Review and potentially approve SAT responses to questions from the MLPA SCRSG