Atlantic Menhaden are a keystone forage fish.  They are essential to the health of the Bay and to species Virginians care deeply about, Ospreys and many others.  When Menhaden decline, the entire food web feels the impact.  Right now, we do not have Bay specific, precautionary science that demonstrates industrial reduction fishing can continue without risk.  Until we have that science, there should be a pause in Industrial reduction fishing for Atlantic Menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay at the very least, and ultimately in Virginia waters.  This is not about eliminating jobs or closing a fishery.  It is about protecting a shared public resource and ensuring decisions are grounded in sound science rather than uncertainty.  When science is lacking, caution is the responsible choice.  The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are too important to gamble with.  We support this petition and urge you to accept it in its entirety.