Thanks for the update Pete. Unlike the previous, Channel Islands Reserves process, in this process, other options besides closures are being considered. So, many of Pete's ideas are very feasible. There is one and only one thing that we need to do in order to get our way. That is to have a lot of us show up at the meetings, and send in comments, to people like Paul Reilly. If we can get together and speak with one strong voice, we will probably get what we want. I don't think the enviros will have too much of a problem with campus point. The only thing I could think of would be that they would want to have a reserve in front of their school, just to say that they have a reserve in front of their school. I doubt DFG will buy that, but I also doubt that the UCSB enviros will admit that in the first place... So, we could potentially have a very strong advantage on this. That being LOGIC. However, that didn't seem to prevail at the last go round... I strongly, strongly encourage everybody on the site to seriously attend the meetings, and send emails. It's the least you can do. During the last process, with MRWG and SAC and all that, the private boater turnout was pathetic. Often times I was the closest person to a private boater at the meetings!!! And more than once, I alone represented recreational fishermen. I'd like to think that us inshore fishermen are a little more concerned. We are certainly more in tune with the environment. We don't pollute (I hope...), we don't destroy habitat, and for the most part, I think we display pretty good conservational, sporting, and ethical treatment of our catch. So, I can honestly tell you, that every person at the meetings makes a difference. Literally. I think the first DFG meetings is on Aug. 28th or something like that. Please show up, and bring some friends!!! Maybe we could have a BBQ prior to the meeting or something....
-Brian