HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0862.077 2008-2010 Testimony in Support of County Council Resolution 363 -10
From: Robert G. Owens
LOST FISH Coalition
P. O. Box 390508
Kailua -Kona, HI 96739
To: Chair Emily Naole- Beason and the County Council Members
Madam Chair and County Council Members, thank you for hearing this resolution and allowing
me to testify. I am strongly in support of Hawaii County Council Resolution 363 -10.
Almost sixteen years ago I got a report from the state Division of Aquatic Resources showing
how many fish were being taken out of our waters for sale to the aquarium trade. I was horrified
by the numbers in the report: almost 1 /4 million fish from West Hawaii alone. And that was 16
years ago. And probably not accurate even then.
Since that time I have spent hundreds of hours with the LOST FISH Coalition and with the West
Hawaii Fisheries Council to try to bring the rampant stealing of reef fish under control. My wife
and I both have tried for years to find a way to keep fish on our reefs while allowing collectors to
continue to fish.
It hasn't worked and now is the time to finish it. Stop this destructive industry and help us
convince the state this practice of aquarium collecting does the state far more harm than good.
Please pass this resolution.
Thank you.
Coale. ku. 7 . 7
Ref. To: PC
Ref. Dore JUL 2 0 2