Submitted by Kirk Stansel

This Thursday, Nov. 5, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission will consider a notice of intent to create a one-mile buffer off Louisiana’s beaches, barrier islands and shorelines where large-scale fishing for pogies won’t be allowed. This action would be a great step forward for responsible management of the fishery. Anything the Commission can do to reduce the adverse impacts of the reduction fishery in the Gulf is welcomed. If possible, please plan to attend the meeting in person, beginning at 9:30 a.m., to learn about the proposal and to comment.

If you were unable to attend the meeting in person, you were to submit a written comment by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 4 to the following email address: Comments@wlf.la.gov.

Here are some comments various observers have made:

1. According to a recent presentation to the Gulf commission, reduction fishing lowers trout and redfish populations by 50%.
2. Netting in shallow waters scrape the bottoms clean, destroying habitat and impacting marine life
3. The water quality after purse seining is very poor.
4. Guides and other recreational fishing businesses are hurt by this fishery.

If you care about our Louisiana environment, make your position known!