BY MERIT McCREA
Katie Zanowics of NOAA Fisheries has put out the Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee’s (MAFAC) on-line mariner survey on depredation and damage issues by marine mammals. They want to know about how bad it is and how effective the limited legal deterrents have proven to be.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing GM Donna Kalez was on the National MAFAC until she recently termed out. Jaime Diamond, GM at SB Landing in Santa Barbara currently holds that California seat. This WON writer asked both about their perspectives.
Kalez replied “worked on it for two years in MAFAC. When Jaime got there and they sent it out. We beta tested it for a while – my guys took the survey – take it please – it’s a great survey…”
Diamond responded “What she said.” She forwarded a copy in pdf form.
The survey header begins: Marine Mammal Deterrents Draft Survey – The purpose of this survey is to gather your knowledge and perceptions about the nature of marine mammal interactions and use of deterrents currently employed by aquaculture farmers, commercial, recreational, and tribal fishermen, and property owners. We will use the data to create an index that will identify where the biggest problems are likely to be occurring.
A quick on-line search for finds the link in a hurry. The survey is open until 11/22.
