Species covered in proposed rule • Marine Bottomfish
Rule to Change: None
New Rule Proposal: Bottomfish Closure Areas: (TDB based on bottomfish habitat and/or census data, and enforceability)
*Salmon fishing still allowed in these areas.
Why the change is needed: Due to rockfish life history and ecology conventional fishing management tools alone, including season and gear restrictions, are insufficient to protect rockfish from overharvest. Marine Protected Areas are identified as fundamental but as yet unrealized tools in WDFW’s Groundfish Management Policy (1998), in the Draft Puget Sound Rockfish Conservation Plan (2010), and in Fish and Wildlife Commission Policies (1998) on marine protection areas. Protecting and restoring fundamental fish communities in Puget Sound requires a commitment to scientifically-rigorous bottomfish closure areas that protect critical rockfish (and other bottomfish) habitats. We propose a network of bottomfish closure areas, locations to be determined based on bottomfish habitat and/or census data.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Wild Fish Conservancy
Puget Sound Partnership
WA Fish and Wildlife Commission
People for Puget Sound
Washington State Chapter of Sierra Club
Canadian Marine Environment Protection Society
Coastal Watershed Institute
Marine Life Sancutaries Society of British Columbia
10,000 Years Institute
The use of Marine Reserves and Marine Protected Areas to reduce fishery-related impacts to sensitive rockfish species were discussed with representatives from multiple angling and conservation organizations during many Puget Sound Rockfish Conservation Plan Advisory Group meetings.
Describe their support and/or concerns:
No input given
Submitted by: GLASGOW, JAMIE — DUVALL, WA
Date submitted: 06/14/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Not Recommended for further consideration Reference ID: DFW035509
Postpone until science is available to determine appropriate location of areas. DFW is currently soliciting funding to initiate research to identify the appropriate approach to developing Marine Protection Areas including Bottomfish Closure Areas in Puget Sound. The research is intended to determine the number, size and location of areas needed for conservation of bottom fish in Puget Sound.
Online Public Comments(1 comments)
GIRTZ, TODD September 21, 2012 SUMNER , WA Comments: no need of any more bottom fish closers most of the water deeper then 120 feet is already closed.
