Shark Protection update

Two updates to the information we posted earlier this week:

1) There is a pre-existing facebook page dedicated to getting people together to support making the CNMI a shark fin free zone.  You can join the group through this link: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1715392496#!/group.php?gid=138532896160975

The group's focus right now is supporting efforts by members of the CNMI House to introduce a bill banning shark fining in the CNMI.  Updates on the bills status and how you can get involved will be posted on this group page, so check it out if you're interested.

2) There is a WestPAC sponsored CNMI Bottomfish Scoping Meeting tomorrow night (Wens August 11th) at NMC from 6-9pm (flyer posted after jump link).  At this meeting they will be discussing (amoung other things) potential policy changes in relation to bottom fish.  Sharks happen to be among the largest bycatch species of this fishery (I am told anecdotely the largest), and it is likely that policy shifts in relation to the bycatch of sharks will be discussed.  The meeting will be an opportunity to hear and comment on potential management options.  So, particularly for you fisherman folks, it may be worth attending.


 

Attention Fisherman and other Stakeholders:

You are invited to attend the

CNMI Bottomfish Scoping Meeting

The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council, the policy-making agency for fisheries management in federal waters (3-200 miles offshore) of the US Pacific Islands, will convene public scoping meetings on the management of the bottomfish fishery resources that occur around CNMI. The public meetings are an opportunity for you to comment on bottomfish fishery issues and potential management options, in addition to other fisheries related issues. Your views are being solicited on exiting federal management regime for bottomfish species, current performance of the fishery and the need for potential regulatory changes.  The meetings will be held using video conferencing at the following locations:

Saipan:                    Wednesday, August 11, 2010  6:00pm to 9:00pm

                                  NMC Classroom D-l

Tinian:                     Wednesday, August 11, 2010  6:00pm to 9:00pm

                                  NMC Enhancement Room

Rota:                        Wednesday, August 11, 2010  6:00pm to 9:00pm

                                  NMC Enhancement Room

For more information, call Jack Ogumoro, the Council’s On-Site Coordinator in CNMI at 287-9482 or 322-9830, or log on to the Council’s website at www.wpcouncil.org.