The text below is from an alert at KeepAmericaFishing.org. They have an email template for sending in your opinion. Fill one out today!

http://www.capwiz.com/keepamericafishin ... d=14653146

If you think the current closure for Snapper and Grouper is bad you haven't seen anything yet

Tell the White House That the New National Policy for the Ocean, Coasts and Great Lakes
Must Safeguard Recreational Fishing Your input is needed to ensure that this new national policy does not restrict people from enjoying saltwater and freshwater recreational fishing

Within the next 30 - 60 days, the Obama Administration is planning to issue a final report, and possibly other management guidance, intended to govern the management of the nation's oceans, coastal areas and Great Lakes. The plan originated in June 2009, when President Obama created the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force. The Task Force, led by the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), was charged with developing a national policy for conserving and managing the United States ocean territory and the Great Lakes. The policy will govern ocean and Great Lakes resource management and coordinate efforts among the many federal, state and local agencies that oversee a significant portion of our nation's waters.

The White House is in the final stages of developing the final report, which must balance sustainable uses with ocean and Great Lakes conservation. It is important that the administration recognizes and promotes the economic and conservation contributions of outdoor recreation, including recreational fishing and boating. Without such recognition, decisions made under this national oceans and Great Lakes policy could be used to close saltwater and freshwater recreational fishing areas.

Anglers and boaters are the original stewards of our environment. If you take us off the water, this country will lose a vital element in the conservation of our fisheries resources. Outdoor recreation is a part of our way of life and we need to ensure that it remains an option for all Americas.

Done!

me too.

Question: I read somewhere that internet generated letters are disregarded by those in DC. Is that true? I hope not.

Done. Quick and easy. Let's hope it's effective!

Yep Done in 2 minutes. Come on everyone, do ur part!

done

Done!!

Iam done quick and easy.

FYI - Here's the reply I received today after sending the letter yestereday.


Response from Congresswoman Suzanne M. Kosmas

Dear Scott:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force. I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this important matter and welcome the opportunity to respond.

On June 12, 2009, President Obama established an Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force, led by the White House Council on Environmental Quality. The task force is charged with formulating a national policy for the protection, maintenance and restoration of the nation's oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes. In addition, the task force will draft a plan for improving stewardship and effective coastal and marine spatial planning. These recommendations will be cost-effective and improve coordination across federal agencies.

On September 10, 2009, the task force released its Interim Report, which includes its policy recommendations. While drafting the proposal, the task force conducted an extensive public engagement process, including expert roundtables, public meetings, and a website for accepting public comments. In the 90 days following the release of the report, the task force will be holding additional round tables and public meetings.

Having raised my family in New Smyrna Beach, I am very aware that recreational fishing contributes greatly to Florida's economy and creates jobs for many individuals in our communities. Please be assured that I am committed to preserving robust recreational fishing opportunities in Florida and ensuring that our state remains the recreational fishing and marine wildlife capital of the world. While there is currently no legislation before the House concerning the recommendations of the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force, I will be sure to keep your concerns in mind should any relevant legislation be introduced.

Thank you again for contacting me. Please visit my website at http://www.kosmas.house.gov to sign up for my email updates and to learn how I may be of service to you.


Sincerely,

Suzanne M. Kosmas

....as a commercial fisherman from Jax, I told all those around me, some twenty years ago, to look to Cuba to see the future of fishing in America.....all about control...

Response received today, 3/15/10, from Senator George S. LeMieux

Thank you for sharing your views regarding the management of Florida fisheries. I appreciate hearing from you and would like to respond to your concerns.

The good stewardship of Florida’s coastal and ocean resources is fundamental for the economy and lifestyle of our state, which includes millions of saltwater anglers, boat builders, marina personnel, and tackle shops. We all have a vested interest in preserving and promoting the health of our nation’s fisheries, and I believe that we can all agree that tough management decisions must be made with science that's modern, consistent, and sound

While we endeavor to protect our natural resources, it is also critical that we secure access for all Floridians. I want my children and grandchildren to enjoy the beauty that our coastal environment provides. Rest assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind, and I will continue to support the responsible management of our fisheries to ensure they remain vibrant and accessible for many future generations of Floridians.

It is an honor and privilege to serve the people of the great State of Florida in the United States Senate. I take great pride in being a native Floridian, and I look forward to the tremendous opportunity to better the lives of all Floridians. I assure you I will work hard to represent our state to the best of my ability in the U.S. Senate. If I can be of any further help to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.


Very truly yours,

George S. LeMieux
United States Senator

Done and submitted.