HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0862.060 2008-2010 Murashige, Laura
From: Dennis McCrea [dennis @konaboatdiving.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 18, 2010 10:03 PM
To: counciltestimony @co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Reef Fish Collection Resolution (363 -10)
Current DLNR Fish Collecting Rules only benefit a few individuals, while disregarding the
economic impact to the broad spectrum of tourists and locals alike.
Fish collecting, including the owners and employees, account for less than 200 jobs. Most
of which is part time, and without benefits to the employees. Many employees are paid
"under the table" to avoid paying employment taxes and benefits that otherwise would
benefit the local and State economies.
An additional direct result of "over collecting" is the effect it has on the reef
ecosystem. Many areas of the reef are now experiencing a massive increase in algae growth,
due to the removal of fish that have balanced the ecosystem. Long term damage may be not
be reversible if measures are not taken to control the amount of "unreported fish" that
are being harvested.
DLNR has made it possible in their "rules" , that an Aquarium Collector can not lose their
license for failing to report on time or accurately. Commercial fisherman are fined if
their reports are late or lost in the mail. Additionally, DLNR can decide to revoke their
license, and it can only be restored by having an administrative hearing.
I am asking that we take responsibility and act to protect this valuable resource.
Sincerely,
Dennis McCrea
Underwater Adventures Hawaii
808 - 328 -7388
C o m m .�_._
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