RRI Leads Diverse Coalition Urging Stronger Protections for Marine Life in Southern California Fishery

On June 6th, 2024, the Resource Renewal Institute joined forces with over 20 organizations and businesses in submitting a public comment to the California Fish and Game Commission, urging them to implement robust measures to reduce bycatch and mortality in the Southern California set gillnet fishery. The coalition, which includes groups such as Oceana, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Surfrider Foundation, is advocating for a 24-hour maximum soak time for gillnets to minimize the unintended catch and injury of marine life.

In the joint letter submitted ahead of the Commission's June 20th hearing, the signatories emphasize the importance of addressing bycatch, a top priority for California. Logbook data from the Department of Fish and Wildlife and peer-reviewed research indicates a 24-hour soak time limit would substantially reduce bycatch mortality, particularly for sensitive species like sharks and rays. The coalition also supports improved gear marking requirements, such as unique tracer lines on gillnet headropes, as a first step towards better management.

Scott Webb, Director of Advocacy & Engagement at the Resource Renewal Institute, stated, "We are proud to stand alongside this diverse group of organizations in advocating for stronger protections for marine life off the California coast. By implementing a 24-hour maximum soak time and improving gear marking, we can take significant steps towards reducing the harmful impacts of gillnets on our ocean ecosystems."

The Resource Renewal Institute and its partners commend the California Fish and Game Commission and the Department of Fish and Wildlife for their efforts in developing this suite of regulatory measures and urge them to adopt the strongest possible protections to benefit California's marine biodiversity.