I do not support this petition as it is not grounded in science and demonstrates a lack of understanding regarding the sustainability of our fishery. The Menhaden fishery is already one of the most heavily regulated fisheries with purse seine fishing being one of the cleanest methods.
The truly significant user conflict is the aggressions directed toward our fishery by the opposition. Proposals like this, which seek to impose unwarranted restrictions, fail to recognize the extensive measures already in place to ensure a healthy stock and the consequences this proposal would have on our rural community, our employees and their families.