I have lived in the area all my life and although I have no scientific proof there is a large amount of antidotal proof that points to over fishing of any species causes a major issue with the bay and surrounding waters health.  It’s been proven again and again with the moratoriums that have been put on other species and their recovery.  When you remove a major cog in the food chain you affect the whole chain and that’s what the politicians are allowing with the menhaden harvesting.  The bay will be healthier and happier if the menhaden is left alone.  Any politician who does not agree with is NOT interested in keeping the bay healthy.