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Crabbing season delayed yet again

The Impact of Whale Entanglements on Crabbing Season

The recent decision by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to extend the crabbing season to mid-December is a response to the alarming number of whale entanglements in the state’s waters. This move aims to reduce the risk of further harm to marine life, particularly whales, while also providing a boost to the local economy.

The Problem of Whale Entanglements

Whale entanglements have become a significant concern in California’s coastal waters. The main culprit behind these entanglements is the discarded fishing gear, particularly crab pots, that are left behind by fishermen.

The Entanglement Incident

The incident occurred on November 12, 2022, in the waters off the coast of California. Four humpback whales were caught in crab fishing gear, which was left unattended on the seafloor. The whales were found entangled in the gear, with some of them struggling to free themselves. The whales were identified as four adult females, with ages ranging from 20 to 40 years old. The entanglement occurred in an area known for its high concentration of marine life, including sea lions, seals, and other marine mammals. The incident highlighted the need for more effective measures to prevent marine life entanglement in fishing gear.

The Delayed Season

As a result of the incident, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) delayed the start of the Dungeness crab fishing season. The delay was intended to give the CDFW time to assess the situation and develop a plan to prevent similar incidents in the future. The delay was made possible by a provision in the California Fish and Game Code that allows the CDFW to delay the start of a fishing season if it determines that the season would pose a risk to marine life. The CDFW worked with fishermen and other stakeholders to develop a plan to reduce the risk of marine life entanglement in fishing gear. The plan included measures such as: + Using more effective and efficient fishing gear that reduces the risk of entanglement. + Implementing a system for monitoring and reporting fishing gear to ensure that it is not left unattended on the seafloor.

The Future of Conventional Fishing

The conventional fishing industry has been a cornerstone of the global seafood market for decades. However, with the increasing awareness of the devastating impact of overfishing and the decline of fish populations, many experts are questioning the sustainability of this industry. Geoff Shester, a prominent figure in the ocean conservation movement, has expressed concerns about the future of conventional fishing.

The Challenges Facing Conventional Fishing

  • Overfishing: The most significant challenge facing conventional fishing is overfishing. The industry’s reliance on traditional fishing methods, such as bottom trawling and longlining, has led to the depletion of fish populations and the destruction of marine ecosystems. Bycatch: Bycatch, or the catching of non-target species, is another major issue in conventional fishing. This can lead to the deaths of millions of marine animals, including endangered species. Habitat destruction: Conventional fishing often involves the use of destructive fishing gear, such as bottom trawls and dredges, which can damage or destroy marine habitats. ## The Shift Towards Sustainable Fishing**

    • The Shift Towards Sustainable Fishing

    In response to the challenges facing conventional fishing, many experts are advocating for a shift towards sustainable fishing practices. This includes:

  • Catch limits: Implementing catch limits can help prevent overfishing and allow fish populations to recover.

    Cunningham was unconvinced, but Shester presented evidence that the gear was more efficient and cost-effective than traditional fishing gear.

    The Debate Over Ropeless Fishing Gear

    The debate over ropeless fishing gear has been ongoing for several years, with proponents on both sides presenting their arguments.

    The Impact of the Crab Catch on the Fishing Industry

    The fishing industry in Humboldt County is facing significant challenges due to the limited catch of crab. According to Cunningham, the limited catch of crab by Humboldt County fishermen last year exacerbated the difficulties faced by the fishing industry. He also expressed skepticism about the size of the crab catch this year, citing his concerns.

    The Economic Impact

    The limited catch of crab has significant economic implications for the fishing industry. Some of the key economic impacts include:

  • Reduced revenue for fishermen and processors
  • Increased costs for fishermen due to the need to purchase additional gear and supplies
  • Potential job losses in the fishing industry
  • Decreased competitiveness of Humboldt County fishermen in the market

    • The Environmental Impact

    The limited catch of crab also has significant environmental implications. Some of the key environmental impacts include:

  • Overfishing and depletion of crab populations
  • Damage to marine ecosystems and habitats
  • Potential loss of biodiversity
  • Increased risk of marine pollution

    • The Social Impact

    The limited catch of crab also has significant social implications.

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