Rep Saxton Questions New Flounder Regulations
Friday, July 20, 2007
Source Courier Post
WASHINGTON, D.C.
A South Jersey legislator, who in January praised an increased quota for summer flounder, on Thursday said a federal agency now wants to slash the allowed catch.
U.S. Rep. Jim Saxton, R-N.J., demanded an explanation from the National Marine Fisheries Service, saying the change would hurt the recreational-fishing industry along the Jersey Shore.
Saxton said the agency in December proposed a 2008 quota of 19.6 million pounds, but now is projecting a range of 11.6 million to 15.7 million pounds.
"How is it possible for the scientific recommendation to change so significantly in seven months?" asked Saxton. "These are not good numbers, and they threaten our fishing industry."