So...No Salmon?

Steve Scheiblaur, Harbor master of the Monterey Marina, gives us his perspective on the health of the oceans. Commercial fisherman are affected by the close of the salmon season. In Monterey, many of the 74 fishing boats would be salmon fishing if the season was open. Now they are trying to find other areas to fish. Today there is less room for people to do so, because fishing management has applied new concepts, such as limited entry.

Steve agrees it was a wise idea to close the salmon season. No one really argued against it even if their livelihood depend on it. Commitment to the health of the resource. Fisherman is the only variable that the state can control.

But what are the root causes?
Some oceanographic conditions, such as urban development and habitat issues at the Sacramento Delta System.

Salmon are enormous multiplier's so one salmon's value is huge for the entire community. Restaurants, waiters, hotel stays by fisherman, the fisherman's income and many other links which generate income due to that one salmon- are lost when the salmon season is closed. It's one huge cycle.

The Sacramento Delta has a lot of habitat issues. Here in Monterey, there seems to be some issues as well. Coastal streams throughout CA have been experiencing a lot of issues, which local organizations are trying to take care of. In Sacramento there is a process under way envisioning a healthier Sacramento Delta plan.

Steve discusses the ocean's resilience, which he is thankful for. Right now we have a great abundance of sardines. Steve isn't really aware of a negative chain reaction stemming from a lack of salmon, as he feels that it is cyclical.

How can citizens take responsibility for the lack of this prestigious fishery?
Pressure legislature to have a longterm financial commitment for improving the Sacramento Delta and the salmon habitat.

How does the fishing infrastructure affect the fishing industry? The industry is reliant on all the systems which make fish available to us at our market place.

Is over fishing occurring? Overfishing means that you are fishing at a level beyond the legal 40% of their stock level. Some species rebound quickly when over-fished, but others take up to 40 yrs to regenerate. Internationally, there is over-fishing occurring, and that's what we should be focusing on.

Steve recommends using a the Seafood Watch guide to make healthier fish buying choices. Steve says, overall, make sure you are buying fish locally caught, and locally sold.

You can reach Mr. Scheiblaur at Scheibla@ci.monterey.ca.us for any questions.

On the Green Scene:
The tall ship, Bounty, is arriving on wharf 2 in Monterey. Today through Sunday it will be open for public tours. Check it out!

Thank yo u Steve Scheiblaur for sharing with us today, and as always thanks for listening! As always feel free to leave your comments here.