Abalone FMP update 4/16

Sometime in the next couple days there will be an announcement that on Monday, May 2 a workshop will be held in Santa Cruz regarding the FMP.  The format will include several presentations from the department and others regarding the management of abalone here and around the world.  What works and what doesn't?  Then after lunch there will be a public participation forum.  This is where the department and other professionals will be answering questions and looking for your input to asses what was presented in the morning and to make sure that we are all on the right track to creating an FMP that divers want and will be happy with. 

I strongly suggest that if you have an interest in the FMP that you make this meeting.  This is where you will get the most bang for your buck as far as when and where to give your input.  I expect that there will be discussion on the previous workshops as well as the survey that went out and how the information is being interpreted so if there is any discrepancy, now is the time to say so.  Once we get neck deep in language and policy it will be much harder to shift direction or revisit old topics.

If you want input on what goes into the new management plan you should be there on May 2.

It will be important that if you do speak at this forum that you are clear on your points and that you be less emotional, and more rational in your reasons.  If we come off as just an angry mob we will lose the attention of the people that matter.  If you're not a speaker but you agree with what's said, applause are an accepted way to show agreement without having every speaker repeat what's already been said so even if you don't want to speak you should attend.  One person making a point and the entire room applauding is a very powerful message.

I think it would be a good idea for us to get together as a group and discuss what's been done so far, what's possible or not, and what to expect from the workshop on May 2.  Instead of creating a separate event I've asked the Tritons if I could address the crowd at the Triton Open on Saturday April 30.   I'll also be asking the shops and others to be promoting both the workshop and the discussion at the Triton Open.  This is your best chance to be heard as an individual and our best chance to be heard as a group.

Josh

I'm in for the Ft Bragg sessions! Thanks for the info!

Thanks for the info Josh.