I write in support of this petition because a temporary moratorium on purse-seine reduction fishing for menhaden, along with the additional steps and considerations set forth in the petition, are in the best interests of the Chesapeake Bay and the State of Virginia. It also happens to be in the best interests of all of those who depend upon or rely upon the bay, whether human, animal, fish or fowl. 

It is undisputed that menhaden populations have declined in the Chesapeake Bay. They are not what they were decades or centuries ago. There are multiple reasons for the decline, but many of them are within our control. So are the means of redressing these declines. If we adopt a temporary moratorium on purse-seine reduction fishing (a name that I have always found to be transparent in its effects), we can provide some time to not only get a true and verified assessment of the state of menhaden in the bay, but also develop a path forward that can lead to increased -- rather than reduced -- populations of the fish. 

I am not a scientist. I don't work at the plant in Reedville. But, I am someone who loves the Chesapeake Bay. I have recently been introduced to the beauty found in the eastern shore of Virginia. One of my favorite memories from the time I spent there with my family involves watching my children try to catch fish off a dock adjacent to the bay. I watched as my kids caught menhaden. It was all of our first experience with the fish up close. Seeing those little fish in my kids' hands, with the smiles on their faces, got me to thinking about those little fish. I did my research and discovered their oversized impact upon our bay. I also looked at all sides of the issue. That is when I realized there was only one side: the side of the fish themselves.

This petition seems like a no-brainer. If the menhaden population crashes, there will be ripple effects, like the loss of striped bass, osprey and other creatures who depend upon the fish. But there will also be the loss of the very jobs that those who oppose this petition seek to protect. If there are no menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay, then there are less fish to process in Reedville, VA. That will lead to layoffs. Vessels will have go out further, reducing the menhaden populations father and farther away.

We need to support the menhaden populations and, if we do, we will end up supporting everyone. The petition strikes the right balance and framework for that support. We need an honest, science-based look at the current state of the menhaden populations in the bay. We need to ensure that all who rely upon menhaden fishing, not just the reduction industry. We need to ensure that the small, family businesses who operate on the bay can continue their way of life. And, we need to make sure that the ecosystem itself remains strong, because menhaden are a cornerstone to that system. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts.