Chuck Menzel's March 15 commentary, "Network of protected ocean areas necessary," included some important points ??? such as the need to protect our coastal waters ??? but, in the end, it only tells one side of the story.

The science is mixed regarding Marine Protected Areas. For every article that declares MPAs work, another article says they do not. Further, considering California's unprecedented structural budget deficit that impedes management of MPAs, once no-take marine reserves areas are designated, they are closed to the public forever.

The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans is actively and constructively engaged in the implementation of the Marine Life Protection Act. Partnership for Sustainable Oceans members are concerned about the health of our marine ecosystem and believe that we must take appropriate action to ensure the health of our oceans in order to preserve and enhance recreational fishing opportunities for current and future generations.
Fishery populations have sharply rebounded since the late 1990s due to improved fisheries management without MPAs, in contrast to Menzel's statement that they are in peril. Scientific fisheries management has been effective in rebuilding what were once depleted fish stocks and destructive fishing practices have been banned to protect sensitive marine habitats.

For example, the Federal Pacific Fishery Management Council, working with the California Department of Fish and Game and the wildlife agencies of the states of Oregon and Washington, are successfully rebuilding rockfish species that were once depleted, and has stopped overfishing on these species. Those agencies actively manage the entire groundfish fishery (and its other fisheries) to ensure compliance with federal law, which requires a focus on sustainable fish populations, fishing practices, conservation and ending abusive fishing practices of the past.

We support a balanced, objective and appropriately funded implementation of the MLPA, and we have always maintained that it must be done in a way that minimizes the socioeconomic impacts while maximizing conservation benefits.

At a time when local economies are already suffering a drastic economic downturn, closing the door to recreational fishermen is not the answer.
In 2006, saltwater recreational fishing in California sustained 20,000 California jobs and resulted in an economic impact of $2.2 billion annually. This economic contribution should not go unnoticed.

Besides the economic benefit, fishing and boating provide a way for family and friends to be together and provides a way for children and adults to connect with the outdoors. Most importantly, fishing teaches our children to be good stewards of the environment.

Recreational fishermen are conservationists first and foremost. We are the original stewards of the environment, advocating for sustainable fishing, including practicing catch-and-release, and conservation of our natural resources. We have a minimal environmental impact and we do not use or support equipment or destructive fishing practices that damage the environment such as bottom trawling, gill nets or long lines.

We are part of the solution. Through the purchase of fishing licenses and Ocean Enhancement Stamps, recreational fishermen fund state conservation and management efforts. Last year alone, license sales raised $57 million for the Department of Fish and Game.

To find out more and to sign up to receive updates about this issue, visit Keep America Fishing. Let's keep recreational fishing alive today and for future generations.

This article was originally published on March 29th in the Ventura Country Star click here to see Harold's article.