Regarding the Wednesday editorial, “Study of little fish a big deal”: As a life-long resident of Maple Grove, full and part time, I have personally watched the severe and dramatic decline of the smelt runs along the beaches between Utsalady and Rocky Point! Particularly in the past 10-15 years! The causes, which were omitted from the editorial, are not environmental! From the anecdotal observations and experiences of myself and other residents, the causes are unregulated, unenforced overfishing by commercial fishermen and others.
The impact on resident eagles and other shore birds is dramatic! It was common to watch 20 to 30 eagles fish of the beach at high tide. This past summer? Rare to see a handful. Two years ago, we found several dead baby seals on the beach … from gun shots!
Space prevents full disclosure of the extremes we see daily. While sympathetic to the short staffing of wildlife staff, failure to monitor and regulate is a significant problem. Rather than spend any tax dollars on “a study,”close this fishery down for three to five years for everyone.
Thank you to Sen. Christine Rolfes, D-Bainbridge Island, for finally addressing a problem of the diminished smelt runs in the north Sound! For too long, Washington state Department of Fish and Wildlife has ignored this part of the food chain by considering these fish “forage fish”! Two important factors left out of the editorial.
Penny Pfiester
Camano Island
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