SoCal MLPA Update - Oct 9 2008

[PAL]

Many thanks to all those who stepped up to earn kayak anglers a seat at the table in the on-going Marine Life Protection Act process. For those unaware of this thing, its a state law that requires establishment of a network of marine reserves along California's coast. Obviously, reserves placed in just a few key areas could put kayak anglers out of business. We're doing everything possible to avoid that outcome.

This will be the first of many MLPA updates meant to keep SoCal's kayak anglers informed and highlight opportunities for involvement.

Draft Regional Profile
The most substantive recent development was the release of the Draft Regional Profile of the South Coast Study Region. This document lays out SoCal’s marine environment and uses. It is available at:
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/mlpa/scprofile.asp

We have a major task ahead, reviewing and critiquing this product. If you can help, please let me know ASAP. In particular, we are working on adding the many security zones and administrative areas that prohibit fishing. Please pitch in!

Science Guy or Gal - Help Wanted!

The KFACA is looking for a good brain or two. Specifically, we’re looking for someone to monitor the MLPA Science Advisory Team meetings and provide reports to backstop material available from outside sources. Also, we’re looking for informed advice and insight into marine science issues. Familiarity with GIS concepts is a plus.

The SAT meets at least once every 6 weeks, but possibly much more often. Meetings are available via online remote and are also typically archived online for later viewing. For example, here's a link to the SAT's Sept 15 meeting:
http://www.cal-span.org/cgi-bin/medi...older=MLPA-SAT

Upcoming Meetings
Nov 4 – Blue Ribbon Task Force, location TBD
Nov 12 – Science Advisory Team, location TBD
Nov 18-19 – Regional Stakeholder Group, Santa Barbara
Dec 10 - Blue Ribbon Task Force, location TBD
Dec 17 - Science Advisory Team, location TBD
Jan 13-14 - Nov 18-19 – Regional Stakeholder Group, San Diego?
Jan 27 – Science Advisory Team, location TBD

Paul Lebowitz
Kayak Fishing Association of California
www.kfaca.org