I am writing to express my strong opposition to the petition for rulemaking currently under consideration. This petition represents yet another attempt to unnecessarily harm the historic menhaden reduction fishing industry, which has supported countless rural Virginia families for nearly 150 years.

Ocean Harvesters and Omega Protein, two of the largest private employers in the Northern Neck area, provide vital jobs to many. Management decisions that are not grounded in science could deeply harm these multigenerational employees and their livelihoods. Beyond supporting employees and families, this industry also serves as a major economic engine for our community and many other Virginia localities. It sustains a broad network of vendors essential to its operation and contributes to charitable efforts across the region.

I strongly urge the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to reject this petition and carefully consider the long-term effects it would have on our community, economy, and the well-being of the families who rely on this industry.