As a fishing outfitter whose livelihood depends on a heathy Chesapeake, and lifelong conservationist, the practice of setting industrial scale purse seines in shallow water -- and so close to shore where Bay residents and visitors recreate -- damages crucial marine habitats. When the nets snag the bottom, as happened at least twice in July 2022, the result is typically massive net spills that kill thousands of menhaden, breeding sized red drum and other important forage and game fish. This undermines decades of conservation efforts to restore and protect the Chesapeake’s already fragile ecosystem. I respectfully urge state regulators enact actions outlined in the petition through regulation to correct this practice and protect our marine resources.

Capt. Chris D. Dollar

Tacklecove.com