Pacemaker Fishing Forum

Agree! But, I thought that letter was way too long. If I'm Mr.O'Reilly or other commissioner probably not reading it through. Suggested edit:

I understand the 2013 blue crab population survey found that the stock has dropped substantially to
2008 levels when a new science-based management plan was adopted by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission.

I support both a healthy blue crab population and fishery. This can only happen through conservative fishery management decisions and improved habitat.

Now is not the time to reopen Virginia’s blue crab dredge fishery. The past two year’s harvest has been poor. The blue crab population needs to grow and become more stable in order to ensure a healthy fishery.

I urge you and your fellow commissioners to keep the winter dredge fishery closed and allow the blue crab population to become more robust before reopening any segment of the fishery. 

Thank you for your consideration.

Good news!

Virginia closes the bay's winter blue crab dredge fishery for another year!

http://www.dailypress.com/news/science/ … 6-61681385

This is noy just about crabs...the whole ecosystem benefits.