The Nov. 29 issue of the Homer News’ Seawatch column reported on some of the issues the commercial fishing fleet is having with the new NMFS Observer Program. I appreciate Cristy Fry showcasing our concerns. I’d like to clarify that I fully support the development of an Electronic Monitoring System as an integral part of the NMFS Program.
As a member of North Pacific Fisheries Association, I have worked with Saltwater Inc. through a NFWF grant to develop a suitable system. While we have had predictable setbacks of a pilot program we have made considerable progress in advancing the technology.
I fully support an expanded observer program and look forward to working with NMFS and Saltwater Inc. to mold a system that will be a global example of modern fisheries management.
Malcolm Milne