HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0140.089 2014-2016G'
FISHES
Feb. 17, 2015
COUNTY CLERK
COUNTY OF HAWAII
IVED
Time /".� By
Date �7 /S
To: Hawaii County Council Committee on Agriculture, Water and Energy Sustainability
Re: Bill 318 in SUPPORT with a Suggested Amendment
Aloha Chair Wille, Vice Chair Poindexter and Committee Members,
Thank you for this opportunity. My name is Rene Umberger, I am the founder of For the Fishes and the co-
founder of Reef Rescue Alliance, each working to protect coral reef wildlife from harmful aquarium trade
practices.
Despite numerous publications and abundant evidence indicating pre -transport fasting time for fish should be 24
hours, or less, opposition to the 24 hour starvation limit remains strong. In reading some of their statements, it
appears it may be beneficial to clarify that the starvation time limit does not include time at cargo and in transit,
which according to the IATA LARs may be 48 hours or more. Therefore, the following amendment is suggested:
Section 4- . Treatment of Aquarium Life to be sold for aquarium use.
1) Intentionally or knowingly withholding food from aquarium life for more than twenty -four hours prior to
packing for transport;
Last night on national news it was revealed that Hawaii's fish are shipped out in just one pint 16 oz. of water.
Surely our wildlife is worth more than that.
If it's important to this council to end cruel treatment of wildlife for industry profits; increase survivability and
leave more fish on the reef, the provisions in Bill 318 are necessary.
If it's important to this council to see fish populations restored, not maintained at current depleted levels in areas
open to the aquarium trade, the provisions of Bill 318 are necessary.
If it's important to this council to protect Hawaii aquarium life that protects our reefs and helps feed families,
hearts and souls of current and future generations, the provisions of Bill 318 are necessary.
I urge your support of this important measure.
Sincerely,
Rene Umberger
Comm. No.y 0 • Cl
P.O. Box 1894, Mel, HI 96753 Ref. To: EE S— C�`
Rene@ FortheFishes.or* 808.283.7225 Ref. Date FEB I 7