Stripers Forever - More Comment Requested on EEZ

Stripers Forever has received notice that a Jim Kirkley from the Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences is doing some work towards the environmental impact study for the possible reopening of the EEZ to striped bass fishing. His comments "Good Day All" and an invitation to comment to him by e-mail are attached. We know that last fall NMFS heard overwhelming testimony against reopening of the EEZ, even from some past as well as current state fishery directors. We also know that Congress has threatened to keep the EEZ closed by legislation, and that the Chairman of the House committee told NMFS and the ASMFC that he was not positively inclined to the idea. It is indeed mind boggling that this unneeded and unwanted idea is still alive, and that more testimony is being gathered after the NMFS road show of last fall - but it is. Can you imagine what these deliberations have cost so far? Stripers Forever will send Mr. Kirkley some testimony, but we urge those of you interested in this issue to let him know exactly how you feel. A copy of our suggested letter to NMFS "EEZ" from last fall is also attached. We haven't heard anything to change our position. Jim Kirkley's email address: jkirkley@vims.edu