March 9, 2010
IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
STATEMENT OF DEP ACTING COMMISSIONER ON THE NJ FISH AND GAME COUNCIL'S PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE BEAR MANAGEMENT POLICY
(10/P11) TRENTON - New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Acting Commissioner Bob Martin today released the following statement on the New Jersey Fish and Game Council's vote to advance its proposed Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy:
"In recent weeks, I have met with Council members to discuss a range of black bear issues and the need for a multi-faceted management strategy that is based on solid science and the latest research. I intend to scrutinize this proposed policy to make sure it provides the best possible solutions to the considerable challenge of managing this valued wildlife resource in the nation's most densely populated state."
A New Jersey Superior Court ruling in 2007 requires the DEP Commissioner to approve the Council's policy before it is submitted for adoption in accordance with the New Jersey Administrative Procedure Act.
The Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy's integrated approach to managing black bears includes research and monitoring, non-lethal and lethal control of problem bears, public education on coexisting with bears, law enforcement to reduce conflicts between bears and people, and a controlled hunt.
To review the Fish and Game Council's proposed Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy, visit: http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/bearpolicy10.htm
March 4, 2010
Notice!
The Edison, NJ Boat Show for this weekend has been canceled.
March 4 - 7 , 2010
March 4, 2010
Editorial
Batsto Fish Forum Review
NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife
Bureau of Freshwater Fishery
Dave Chanda, Director of Fish & Wildlife
Lisa Barno, Bureau Chief
Christopher Smith, Principal Fisheries Biologist
Craig Lemon, Superintendent of Hackettstown Fish Hatchery
The Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries did another great job again this year with the Batsto Fish Forum. Lisa Barno, Bureau Chief, welcomed everyone and presented the opening remarks and Dave Chanda, Director of the Division, spoke on the Division's present and future aspects of Freshwater Fisheries.
The principal speaker was Christopher Smith, Principal Fisheries Biologist, and the main topic was on Large and Small Mouth Bass. Chris is the fisheries biologist covering the region from Trenton south to Cape May. He also covers special projects and in this case added a project he worked on at Lake Hopatcong as well.
He spoke on the different aspects of both Large and Small Mouth Bass; the lakes that best support these species and how the division manages the warm water fishery.
Here is a highlight of the areas covered during his talk:
* Lake surveys.
* Our Lakes are aging and its impact on fishing
* Dam Failure and Maintenance.
* Water Quality.
* Fish Habitat.
* Fish Diseases.
* Eutrophication (Depletion of Oxygen in Water) and its effect on fishing.
* Stormwater Management Effects
* Invasive Vegetation and their impacts on our aging lakes.
Water Chestnuts
Hydrilla
Water Lettuce
Hyacinth
Eurasian Water Milfoil, to name a few.
* Invasive Species like Asia Swamp Eels and others.
He then discussed all of the aspects of the division’s management plans and its effect on the future of freshwater fisheries. He ended with a systematic discussion of the Lake Hopatcong plan an inventory that was completed in January of this year. For those who fish this lake, it was a wealth of information.
Lake Audrey in Cumberland County, our newest Lake was covered at length. The old sand pit, now a thriving Small Mouth Lake is the pride of the South Jersey Lakes. It started in 2004 as just an old sand pit by the NJDF&W and with lots of local and Federation help it's now open to Catch and Release Small Mouth Bass Fishing, this year. The lake had a ph of 4.2 at 2004 and through help and donations; lime was added to bring the lake up and closer to the 7.0 ph factor. Next habitat was placed in the lake and its locations can be found on the Divisions Web Site. The stocking of the lake was next and because of its dynamics, Small Mouth Bass was the choice species. Also stocked were Yellow Perch, Bluegills, Pumpkinseeds, Creek Chubsuckers, Brown Bullheads, and Golden Shiners. The Small Mouth Bass is what makes this lake special and then the fact it is in South Jersey is another. The Small Mouth in this lake is growing at a rate that is or considered incredible by the biologist. Do check this lake out soon and lets us know how you did. This spring, through a grant (state or federal, I'm not sure) the Division of Fish & Wildlife and the Cumberland County Federation will be installing a boat dock at the lake. This lake is only six years in the making and it's open to fishing. It doesn't get any better!
Craig Lemon, Superintendent of the Hackettstown Fish Hatchery, covered the history of the hatchery; the transition from a Trout hatchery to a major cool and warm water hatchery that it is today. This 200 acre parcel has many ponds and many species. A new operating facility is being built on the grounds to replace the really old one and should be finished by year’s end. Unlike Pequest, Hackettstown is generally not open to the public, but by appointment, you and your group can schedule a tour. Give Craig a call.
These forums, Batsto, Pequest, and others, are really well done and they are tops in information. Presented by the experts who manage our fisheries. It doesn't get any better than that. My hat is off to the Division for their work in sharing this information with us. Sorry if you missed it since, those who did attend got a wealth of knowledge that is priceless!
Jim Soden, Web Site Coordinator
March 1, 2010
Q and A of the Calendar of Events
Hi Jim and Ed
First, I want to thank you for the great job you are doing with the Federation. The web page is great. One problem I have and you have no control of is different clubs and organizations scheduling events on the same day.
Examples:
Feb 24 - Salt Water Fishing Rally Wash. D.C., NJOA Southern Region Meeting and the Waterfowl Meeting, all on the same day
March 13 - Camden County's Annual Dinner and the NJQP Work-Day, all on the same Day
March 20 - Square Circle Venison Dinner and the NJOA Forum at Batsto on the same day.
Maybe you both have a solution. I think it should be brought up at the State Meeting.
Bill Schemel, Camden County President, Southern Region Vice President
*******************************************
Dear Bill,
This is what the Calendar of Events Schedule is all about. It’s a tool for all clubs, counties, regions and the state to use to manage and schedule events in the most productive manor. The problem is the tools are not being used in the way they should to be most effective to everyone. Here is my simple version of what it should look like.
**********************************************
The Calendar of Events is a tool for maximizing planning, scheduling, and managing your events for clubs, counties, regions, and the state federation.
Any good mechanic knows; 1st determine what is the problem: 2nd define what is the fix; 3rd design how you wish to approach it; and 4th chose what tools it will take to do the job quickly and efficiently.
1. An event is generally to raise money for a project or to increase membership.
2. The question is, how much money do you need or how many members do you want?
3. The event is designed to address the questions above and to produce the results needed to achieve it. e.g. The more money needed, the bigger the event or the more events needed.
4. What type of event you choose is the "Million Dollar Question," and is generally the biggest decision.
5. Who are you expecting to come to your event: your club, your county, your region or the whole federation? Perhaps you wish go beyond the federation and into the general public. These questions all need to be addressed and will affect the choice of the event.
6. Getting the help to organize it and to run the event is the next hardest thing to do, the rest is easy!
Note: Getting the players is easy; getting them to play together is hard part. Casey Stangel.
7. Draft an event, choose three dates, use only the first and place it on the calendar of events for six months to a year before the event. Use the first date and list it as a tentative date.
8. Watch the Calendar of Events for three to six months and see if anything interferers with it.
9. If nothing interferes with it, do it! If something does interfere, you need to make a decision. Change to the second or third choice of dates, decide on a new date or cancel it.
10. Whatever you choose, the Calendar of Events is an important tool in the beginning, in the middle and in the final moments of your event planning decisions. It is your major advertising tool!
I may not be telling you anything new or what you may already know, but I am placing it in a written document format for your planning booklet. It’s just another tool for your tool box. Many tools just sit in the box waiting for the time when you need it the most. This is one of those tools.
Your Tool Box?
1. Planning
2. Scheduling
3. Decisions
4. Documentation
5. Manpower
6. Advertising
a. Word of Mouth
b. Flyers
c. Calendar of Events (Web Site)
d. Newspaper Ads
e. Other
7. Implementation – Do it!
8. Assessment – How did we do, what went right, what went wrong, and what can be changed to improve it for the next time?
9. Keep the documents for the record. This way you do not need to reinvent the wheel ever time you have an event.
Generally the Web Site and the Newspapers will reach out the furthest in the form of advertising.
Jim Soden, Web Site Coordinator
February 26, 2010
NJDF&W Fisheries Forum at Batsto Village
Saturday, Feb. 27 at 10 AM is still a GO!
This Forum is done really well and you get lots of information for the upcoming season. It's a must do forum!
Despite the heavy snow in some areas of the state, the NJDEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife will still hold the public forum tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 27 beginning at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Batsto Village Visitors Center in Burlington County.
The forum will highlight fisheries research and management, culture and recreational angling in New Jersey. Specific topics to be discussed include all aspects of freshwater fisheries management, including both warmwater and coldwater fisheries.
Professional staff from the Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries will be on hand to answer questions and provide updates.
Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated, and will help ensure that all attendees can be accommodated. Individuals can pre-register by calling 856-629-4950 or by sending an e-mail to
Christopher.Smith@dep.state.nj.us.
For more information about the forum, including directions and contact information, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2010/fshforumsouth10.htm on the division's Web site.
February 25, 2010
NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife Advisory!
Most NJ Saltwater Fishermen Need To Register with NOAA
With the annual spawning runs of popular recreational species such as striped bass, shad and river herring just weeks away, the NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is reminding anglers that under a new federal law, most New Jersey saltwater recreational fishermen are now required to register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry before they go fishing. The Saltwater Angler Registry is part of an improved data program to help protect the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing.
As of January 1, 2010, New Jersey fishermen must be registered if they:
* Fish for or catch anadromous species in tidal and salt waters; these are fish like river herring, shad or striped bass that live in the oceans but spawn in fresh water, OR
* Fish in the Federal waters more than three miles from the ocean shore or from the mouths of rivers or bays, OR
* Don't meet any of the exceptions in the law.
Those exceptions include anglers who*
* ...are under the age of 16.
* ...have a currently valid saltwater license from another state whose license meets the criteria of the Angler Registry.
* ...already registered with NOAA in 2010 to fish saltwater in another state.
* ...only fish on vessels that are holders of for-hire (or charter boat and party boat) permits issued by NOAA Fisheries.
* ...hold a Highly Migratory Species Angling permit.
* ...are fishing commercially under a valid license.
Registration is quick and easy and is free in 2010. Anglers simply need to log on to http://www.CountMyFish.noaa.gov/ and click on the Angler Registry link, or call the toll-free registration line at 1-888-MRIP411 (1-888-674-7411). Anglers will need to provide their name, date of birth, address and telephone number, and will receive a registration number that will allow them to begin fishing immediately.
After approximately 30 days, registrants will receive a registration card in the mail. Registration is valid for one year from the date of registration and anglers who do not meet any of the exceptions in the law must register annually.
The registry is an important tool that will help fishermen and policy makers work together to better account for the contributions and impacts of saltwater anglers on ocean ecosystems and coastal economies. It is part of a national overhaul of the way NOAA collects and reports recreational fishing data.
The goal of the initiative - known as the Marine Recreational Information Program, or MRIP - is to provide the most accurate information possible that can be used to determine the health of fish stocks. Reliable, universally trusted data will in turn aid anglers, fisheries managers and other stakeholders in their combined efforts to effectively and fairly set the rules that will ensure the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing.
For more information, visit http://www.CountMyFish.noaa.com .
February 18, 2010
Spring Turkey Permit Application Period Information
The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds hunters that the Spring Turkey Permit Application Period closes this Monday, Feb. 22 at 11:59 p.m. Applications can be made either through the online license website or at a license agent. Applicants can review and edit their applications online until the application period closes.
Award notification and permit pickup begins Monday, March 8. Successful applicants must claim their permits by 11:59 p.m. on March 28; unclaimed awarded permits will be made available for over-the-counter sales which begin on Tuesday, March 30 at 10 a.m.
Turkey hunters need to be aware of changes that have been made to certain Turkey Hunting Area (Zone) boundaries. The format (length and structure) of the season has also changed. Complete details can be found on pages 63-64 in the 2009 Hunting Issue of the Fish and Wildlife Digest ( http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/dighnt09.htm ).
For more information on the spring season permit application process, including links to the 2010 Turkey Hunting Season Information Booklet and a large-scale Turkey Hunting Area map, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2010/turkperm10_spring.htm on the division's Web site.
February 16, 2010
Announcing the New Assistant Administrator for NOAA Fisheries
Message from NOAA Administrator, Dr. Jane Lubchenco
February 10, 2010
It gives me great pleasure to announce Eric Schwaab as the new assistant administrator for fisheries, starting February 16. We are excited to have someone with Eric's experience and proven leadership to bring a fresh perspective to the management of NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service. Eric will lead NOAA's efforts to rebuild our fisheries and the jobs and livelihoods that depend on them. His immediate priorities include improving outreach and relationships with recreational and commercial fishermen, better aligning federal and regional fisheries priorities, restoring confidence in fisheries law enforcement, and promoting management approaches that will achieve both sustainable fisheries and vibrant coastal communities.
Eric brings more than 25 years of experience in local, state and federal natural resource management. He has spent the majority of his career at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, where he began as a natural resources police law enforcement officer in 1983. He eventually served as director of the Maryland Forest Service; director of the Maryland Forest, Wildlife and Heritage Service; and director of the Maryland Fisheries Service. In 2003, Eric left the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to serve as resource director for the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies until 2007. He then returned to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as the deputy secretary. Eric has also served as a member of the U.S. Department of Commerce Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee.
Eric is a creative and proven manager, consensus builder and leader. He has developed and implemented solutions to address challenges in regional habitat restoration, including Chesapeake Bay restoration issues, fish and wildlife conservation, public lands management, natural resources law enforcement, public agency administration, strategic planning and leadership development.
I am excited to welcome Eric to the NOAA family. He will work with NOAA leadership, the fisheries service, his fellow assistant administrators and our many constituents to further our efforts to protect and manage the nation's fisheries, our other trust resources including marine mammals and sea turtles, and the ecosystems upon which they depend. Welcome Eric!
I would also like to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to Dr. Jim Balsiger, the acting assistant administrator, for his superb and sustained leadership. Jim has led the fisheries service for over two years in this capacity, far from his home in Alaska, and done so with distinction. He was especially instrumental in engaging the fishery management councils in the process of developing the draft catch shares policy. Dr. Balsiger will soon return to his position as NOAA Fisheries' regional administrator for Alaska, but before doing so will assist Eric with his transition into the fisheries service and NOAA. I'd also like to thank the entire team at NOAA Fisheries who have done an excellent job during this period.
Dr. Jane Lubchenco
February 12, 2010
ASMFC Finds New Jersey Out of Compliance with the
Interstate FMP for Atlantic Coastal Sharks
Noncompliance Finding Forwarded to the Secretaries of Commerce Interior
Last week at its Winter Meeting, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
Commission found the State of New Jersey out of compliance with the
mandatory management measures contained in the Interstate Fishery
Management Plan (FMP) for Atlantic Coastal Sharks. The Commission has
notified the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior of its finding. This
action was taken pursuant to the provisions of the Atlantic Coastal
Fisheries Cooperative Management Act of 1993.
The State of New Jersey has not implemented the regulations of the
Interstate FMP for Atlantic Coastal Sharks. The implementation of these
regulations is necessary to rebuild depleted shark stocks, ensure
sustainable harvest of others, and provide protection for sharks in state
nursing and pupping grounds. The Technical Committee has identified
Delaware Bay as one of the most important nursing grounds for depleted
sandbar sharks on the Atlantic Coast. Included in the 22 commercial and
recreational regulations in the FMP is a seasonal closure from Virginia
north through New Jersey to protect pupping sandbar sharks.
In order to come back into compliance the State of New Jersey must
implement all measures contained in the FMP. Upon notification by the
Commission, the Secretary of Commerce has 30 days to review the
recommendation and determine appropriate action, which may include a
federal moratorium on fishing for all 40 species of coastal sharks managed
under the FMP in New Jersey’s state waters. For more information, please
contact Robert Beal, Director, Interstate Fisheries Management Program, at
(202) 289-6400.
PR10-04
*************************
Tina Berger
Public Affairs Specialist
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
1444 I Street. NW, Sixth Floor
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202)289-6400
FAX: (202)289-6051
Email: tberger@asmfc.org
www.asmfc.org
Febuary 7, 2010
N.J. Department of Environmental Protection nominee outlines plans for embattled agency
Bob Martin will be the first to say he¡¯s "not a big greenie.
But Martin, whose appointment by Gov. Chris Christie as commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection awaits Senate confirmation, insists he¡¯s "very conscientious," if equally pragmatic, about protecting New Jersey¡¯s natural resources.
"I¡¯m very committed to the environment. I always have been. ¡ I think we have to protect a lot of undeveloped land and with that, the state¡¯s sources of clean water. But where we can afford to grow, we should," said Martin, 52.
At the stately Hopewell Township home he shares with his wife, Brenda, and three children, ages 12, 21 and 24, Martin said energy use is carefully monitored, recycling is a daily practice and lawn pesticides are prohibited.
"I worry about things like that washing downstream into Honey Lake, which is nearby," he said. "Clean water and a clean ocean are a priority for me, and I put them in the same category. ¡ I have a (summer) house in Avalon. I love the beaches. I grew up on the beaches of Massachusetts."
Martin became the environment and energy advisor to the Christie campaign in 2008 after retiring as a partner at Accenture, the global, multibillion-dollar management consulting firm.
"I never anticipated being at the DEP. ¡ I thought I¡¯d probably end up at the BPU (Board of Public Utilities) since I had dealt with utilities at Accenture," Martin said.
He comes to the DEP at a contentious time.
Environmental activists say water and wildlife protections are being eroded by legislation wrapped in the guise of economic recovery efforts. Business advocates argue the DEP is a regulatory black hole for economic growth, an obstacle to commercial and residential expansion.
The latter view was shared by Christie¡¯s transition team on the environment, which issued a report that suggested rescinding rules against development within 300 feet of high-quality streams and some rules that require buffers for wetlands and rare-species habitat. The report also recommended revising contamination cleanup standards by refraining from "overly conservative assumptions" about human-health risks.
The Star-Ledger sat down with Martin last week and asked him about environmental issues facing the state.Q. What will be the DEP¡¯s priorities under your watch?
A. In addition to fixing the regulatory process and changing the culture, we will be moving the Licensed Site Remediation Professional program forward to address the very large backlog we have in cleaning contaminated sites. ¡ Moving along renewable energy, wind and solar power, which plays a key role not only for the environment, but for the economy. ¡ Clean water and a clean ocean. We need to continue to protect areas such as the Highlands, Pinelands and our streams, as well as the ocean ¡ª making sure we are testing the water each summer, making sure it¡¯s clean and safe and getting that information online to let the public know, daily, the conditions there. All the while insuring transparency in what we do at the DEP.
¡¡Q. Will you use the transition team report as a blueprint?
A. I see that as advice. I think they had a lot of good recommendations in there. ¡ Generally, the focus is on fixing the regulatory process, not just where it may be overly restrictive, but where the process is onerous and permits take forever to get reviewed. I want to utilize the best information and technology. I want every permit application entered online, even if someone is seeking multiple permits for larger projects. We need to simplify the process.
¡¡Q. Gov. Christie wants to make the DEP more business-friendly, which environmental groups claim is "code" for setting back clean water and land use regulations. How will you balance the two?
A. We¡¯ll be changing the culture at the DEP. What I mean is, treating whoever comes here like a customer. Everything we do is going to be transparent. I¡¯m committed to that, and it goes with my commitment to base my decisions at DEP on science, facts, data and a cost-benefit analysis. This door is open, and I¡¯ll meet with any stakeholder on any issue, as long as we¡¯re all willing to have rational discussions and recognize at the beginning that we may not always agree. I am committed to protecting the environment and natural resources of our state.
¡¡Q. The Corzine administration ordered the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station to install eco-friendly cooling towers rather than cool its operations with water pumped from Barnegat Bay. Oyster Creek said the order will force the plant to close because of the cost. What will you do?
A. I¡¯ll follow Gov. Christie¡¯s plan, which is to get all the stakeholders at the table, environmentalists, the plant operators, people who live around the plant and Barnegat Bay, to resolve this. Barnegat Bay has many components contributing to its problems, from pesticides on down the list. We need to determine what proportions of each are contributing to those troubles, what role Oyster Creek plays and what options we have to address them, which could include cooling towers at Oyster Creek or not. Oyster Creek is critical to this state. A lot of jobs revolve around the plant, which provides electricity to a considerable segment of our population, and this also raises questions about the cost of electricity.
¡¡Q. Will there be a bear hunt this fall?
A. Our biologists are working with the state Fish and Game Council on a comprehensive black bear management plan, and they are waiting for a report that should be completed within the next month out of East Stroudsburg University on our bear population levels. ¡ We have time to determine whether we¡¯ll have one (hunt) this year. But it will be a decision based on scientific data, facts and costs analysis. We will see the population figures, and we will make a decision. I understand this is an emotional issue. Personally, I do not hunt. But I have no problem with people hunting. I believe it is an important wildlife management tool.Q. Corzine left office before confirming the appointment of a dozen scientists, from academia and private industry, to a new Science Advisory Board created to offer the DEP some outside expertise. Critics claim it will second-guess staff scientists on pollution standards. What are your plans?
A. I have the list, and we¡¯re still going through the people on it. ... I strongly support having a Science Advisory Board, as long as everyone on it has the proper credentials. We want the scientific talent from academia as well as industry to lend their expertise, and I plan to rely very heavily on the academic resources we have in this state, whether through grants or for free, to conduct research on important issues. There is a tremendous amount of work they could do for this state.
Febuary 7, 2010
The following is the text of a news release from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission:
Horseshoe Crab Benchmark Assessment Indicates Increased Abundance in the Southeast and Delaware Bay Region and Decreased Abundance in New York and New England Board Initiates Addendum to Address Future Management Measures
Alexandria, VA - In its report to the Commission's Horseshoe Crab Management Board, an independent panel of scientists endorsed the use of the 2009 horseshoe crab benchmark stock assessment and its accompanying multispecies Adaptive Resource Management (ARM) framework for management use.
The assessment indicates abundance has increased in the Southeast and Delaware Bay Region (New Jersey through coastal Virginia), and decreased in the New York and New England. In the Delaware Bay Region, increasing trends were most evident for juveniles, followed by adult males. An increase in adult females is now beginning to be observed in the Virginia Tech Benthic Trawl Survey. These patterns are indicative of population recovery, given that horseshoe crab females take longer to mature than males.
In contrast, declining abundance was evident in New York and New England. Declines in the New England population were also apparent in the 2004 assessment; however, declines in New York represent a downturn from the 2004 assessment. The Technical Committee believes decreased harvest quotas in Delaware Bay encouraged increased harvest in nearby regions. The Technical Committee recommends continued precautionary management to address effects of redirected harvest from Delaware Bay to outlying populations.
The ARM framework includes modeling that links management of horseshoe crab harvest to multispecies objectives, particularly red knot shorebird recovery. It was developed jointly by the Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Geological Survey in recognition of the importance of horseshoe crab eggs to several shorebird species in the Delaware Bay. Within the ARM framework, a set of alternative multispecies models have been developed for the Delaware Bay to predict the optimal horseshoe crab harvest strategy that would address the needs of red knot population as well as the fishing industry. Both the peer review panel and Horseshoe Crab Management Board accepted use of the ARM framework as a tool to provide guidance for the multispecies management of horseshoe crab.
In response to these findings and in anticipation of the expiration of the Addendum V in October 2010, the Management Board initiated the development of Draft Addendum VI to the Horseshoe Crab Fishery Management Plan. The Draft Addendum will propose options to extend the current management measures under Addendum V as well as incorporate a number of options that have been included in the ARM framework. The Board will meet during the Commission's Spring Meeting in May to consider approval of the Draft Addendum for public comment.
A more detailed overview of the horseshoe crab stock assessment is available on the Commission website (www.asmfc.org) under Breaking News (Horseshoe Crab Stock Assessment Overview). It was developed with the intent of aiding media and interested stakeholders in better understanding the Commission's stock assessment results and process. Copies of the Horseshoe Crab Stock Assessment Report, Delaware Bay ARM Report, and Horseshoe Crab Stock Assessment Peer Review Advisory Report will also be available on the Commission website by February 10. For more information, please contact Brad Spear, Senior Fishery Management Coordinator for Policy, at (202) 289-6400.
*************************
Tina Berger, Public Affairs Specialist
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
1444 I Street. NW, Sixth Floor
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202)289-6400
FAX: (202)289-6051
Email: tberger@asmfc.org
Web: www.asmfc.org
Febuary 7, 2010
Public Hearings On Marine Fisheries Management in February
The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is informing recreational and commercial saltwater fishermen that there will be two public hearings in New Jersey during February. The hearings are to receive public input on management actions under consideration.
The first hearing, on Thursday, Feb. 18 in Cape May, will be held by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council on Amendment 11 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.
The second hearing, on Thursday, Feb. 25 in Lakewood, will be held by the New England Fishery Management Council's Monkfish Committee on Amendment 5 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.
For more information on both hearings, including time, locations, details on the proposals and links to official press releases from both management agencies, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2010/marfish_hearings2-10.htm on the division's Web site.
Febuary 7, 2010
Fisheries Forum in South Jersey Feb. 27
The NJDEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds anglers that there is a public forum to discuss freshwater fisheries research and management, culture and recreational angling in New Jersey on Saturday, Feb. 27 beginning at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Batsto Village Visitors Center in Burlington County.
Topics to be discussed will include all aspects of freshwater fisheries management, including both warmwater and coldwater fisheries. Professional staff from the Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries will be on hand to answer questions and provide updates.
Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated, and will help ensure that all attendees can be accommodated. Individuals can pre-register by calling 856-629-4950 or by sending an e-mail to Christopher.Smith@dep.state.nj.us.
The Fisheries Forum is truly the individual angler's best opportunity to have an integral role in the development of future regulations and management strategies affecting New Jersey anglers and our freshwater fishery resource!
For more information about the forum, including directions and contact information, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2010/fshforumsouth10.htm on the division's Web site.
February 5, 2010
Special Notice
The New Jeresy State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs Membership Office will be closed from February 19, 2010 to March 1, 2010 due to vacation scheduling. Sorry for any inconvenience this may clause.
February 5, 2010
Special Notice
The Camden County Federation Dinner scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed and is re-scheduled for Saturday, March 13 at Clementon Gun Club at 6:30 p.m. Please pass the word on to anyone you know who was interested in coming. Also, we have more time to sell more tickets. Raffle tickets for the Horton Crossbow package will also be available at $10 a ticket.
Stay warm and loosen those muscles before you shovel out of the blizzard.
January 21, 2010
Supreme Court Hands Down Key Campaign
Finance Decision
Repeals Unconstitutional Restrictions on Political Speech
Fairfax, Va. - The National Rifle Association praised the U.S. Supreme Court's
decision today in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission,
removing unconstitutional restrictions on the NRA's ability to speak freely at
election time.
The late Sen. Paul Wellstone had said during the original debate over this
legislation that it was his intention to silence groups like the NRA. While the
author of this measure had singled out the NRA, this law delivered a clear
message to all American citizens: "Keep your mouths shut and stay out of our
political debates."
Wayne LaPierre, NRA executive vice president, said, "This ruling is a victory
for anyone who believes that the First Amendment applies to each and every one
of us. The majesty of free speech is that any American can roll out of bed and
speak as freely as The New York Times, NBC or politicians. This is a defeat for
arrogant elitists who wanted to carve out free speech as a privilege for
themselves and deny it to the rest of us; and for those who believed that speech
had a dollar value and should be treated and regulated like currency, and not a
freedom. Today's decision reaffirms that the Bill of Rights was written for
every American and it will amplify the voice of average citizens who want their
voices heard."
The case originally centered on the FEC's denial of Citizens United's attempt to
broadcast a film about Hillary Clinton through on-demand cable services in
January 2008, but had broader implications in protecting the First Amendment
rights of organizations like the NRA during election time.
Chris W. Cox, NRA-ILA chief lobbyist, said, "This decision today returns sanity
to our political system. The First Amendment does not allow Congress to make
laws denying Americans the right to speak out on issues, the right to assemble
or organize on public policy issues, or the right to petition our government for
redress of grievances."
-nra-
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil
rights and sportsmen's group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its
mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of
existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association
remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding
gun owners, law enforcement and the military.
http://www.nraila.org/News/Read/NewsReleases.aspx?ID=13323
Alexa Fritts
Media Liaison
National Rifle Association
Institute for Legislative Action
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
afritts@nrahq.org
January 19, 2010
ANJRPC SUES TO THROW OUT CORZINE'S
ONE GUN A MONTH LAW!
Federal Lawsuit Comes in Direct Response to Lawmakers' Broken Promise to Create
a Meaningful Exemption for Honest Collectors and Competitors
Following is the Text of an ANJRPC Press Release
issued on January 17, 2010
The Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs (ANJRPC) announced today that
it has filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of
New Jersey to invalidate New Jersey's one gun a month law, in direct response to
lawmakers' broken promise to create a meaningful exemption for gun collectors
and competitors in the handgun rationing law.
According to ANJRPC President Scott Bach, "Criminals laugh at Corzine's new law,
which they can easily thwart, and which fails to punish criminal behavior. It's
a thinly disguised attempt to ration the Constitutional rights of law-abiding
citizens."
"Lawmakers promised that Corzine's Firearms Task Force would deliver a
meaningful exemption for honest gun collectors and competitors, who were not the
target of the law. Instead, they rammed through a largely useless and offensive
scheme requiring registered gun owners to beg further permission and show why it
is not 'feasible or practical' to ration their Constitutional rights every time
they wish to make an exempt purchase - a nearly impossible standard to meet,"
said Bach. "Lawmakers blatantly broke their promise and turned the Task Force
into a Task Farce when it came to protecting the Constitutional rights of honest
citizens. Their actions forced us to sue, and have now jeopardized the very
existence of their feel-good law."
The lawsuit is based on a federal statute that pre-empts state and local laws
regulating the sale of certain firearms. The new law runs directly afoul of that
statute because of the way New Jersey's ultra-strict laws sweepingly define
firearms. The suit also asserts claims based on the failure of the State Police
to implement procedures under the new law, as well as the unlawful rationing of
handgun permits by individual municipalities. A copy of the complaint is
available at http://www.anjrpc.org/NJ_OGM_Complaint.pdf
New Jersey's one gun a month law was passed by the legislature in June by a
single vote, despite overwhelming evidence that it could be easily circumvented
by criminals, failed to address real sources of trafficking, and targeted only
law-abiding citizens. Gun rationing laws passed in other states have either been
shown ineffective or repealed.
Ironically, the New Jersey law ignores known sources of New Jersey gun
trafficking, like the Fedex gun theft ring that stole hundreds of handguns from
legal shipments in 2008 and distributed them illegally on the streets of Jersey
City and Newark. The law only regulates conduct by law-abiding citizens who have
been thoroughly investigated by law enforcement and certified by the State as
acceptable to own firearms.
January 18, 2010
Notice!
NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife, Marine Fisheries Council Meeting Changes
The March 4, 2010 meeting location will move from Galloway Twp. to Toms River at the L. Manuel Hirshbloud Room in the Toms River Township Office, 33 Washington Street, Toms River, N.J. 08753
January 11, 2010
March 27 & 28, 2010
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily
FREE
January 11, 2010
New Jersey Marine Council
Votes for Saltwater Fishing License
GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP - The New Jersey Marine Fisheries Council, in a split vote and after a heated debate, voted Thursday night to support a saltwater fishing license.
Council Chairman Gil Ewing, who pitched the license as a way to fund marine fisheries programs, said the annual license fee would likely be in the $15 to $25 range.
Council also supports lowering size limits for striped bass to 24 inches. Click here for that story.
State legislation would be needed to institute the license requirement, targeted for next year. There was no exact estimate of how much money it would generate, but there are an estimated 600,000 anglers, some from other states, who fish here.
Ewing outlined past attempts to get the state Legislature to fund marine programs that were all unsuccessful. Anglers pay $100 million in taxes to New Jersey each year but the state spends only $1.7 million on fisheries programs, far less than other East Coast states.
Ewing said states such as North Carolina have larger fish quotas because they have research that supports them. New Jersey has been shut down in some fisheries, most recently with tautog and later this year possibly with sharks, due to a lack of research or manpower to conform to mandates from the federal government.
"I know a saltwater license is a bitter pill to swallow. I was against it when I first came on council but I've seen what we lose and what we need. I'm tired of losing on fisheries both recreationally and commercially," Ewing said.
The vote on a motion by Dick Herb was 7-2. It was opposed by Joe Rizzo and Ed Goldman.
Rizzo and Goldman supported the first part of the motion that called for the council to set up a committee to research a saltwater fishing license and other funding options, with recommendations due at the May meeting.
They opposed the second part of Herb's motion calling for supporting a saltwater license "in concept" and sending letters to state lawmakers, including Gov.-elect Chris Christie, stating the stance and asking that council be involved in the process.
Some fishermen at the meeting also questioned the need for a committee if a decision to support the license is already made.
Herb said there is a time problem. The federal government is forcing anglers to register with a national saltwater registry this year. It is free in 2010 but the federal government may charge a fee in 2011. States with their own license fees in place do not have to pay the federal fee.
"You don't need a saltwater license to comply with the registry," argued Tony Bogan of the group United Boatman.
Bogan also complained that those wanting a license opposed a proposed bill by state Sen. Jeff Van Drew, D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic, to create a free New Jersey registry to comply with the federal mandate. Van Drew argued if the state set up a registry it would not have to pay a federal fee. His bill died in committee in December.
The license proposal also was opposed by the local group Recreational Fishing Alliance, or RFA. Adam Nowitsky of RFA argued New Jersey anglers pay $242 million in taxes, including $100 million to the state, and only get a return of about 2 percent in funding.
"I keep hearing license, license, license; the real problem is in regard to funding," Nowitsky said.
Fred MacFarland, president of the Cape May County Party and Charter Boat Association, said he represented a coalition of 8,000 anglers who support the license.
"The federal registration is only free for this year. We're running out of time. Several fisheries are in jeopardy right now," he said.
Herb said the state lost 40 percent of its tautog catch one year because it did not have the research or even the manpower to get paperwork done in time. The state may face a shark moratorium later this year for failing to adopt new management measures in time. Herb said the value of New Jersey's fish harvest is No. 3 on the East Coast but the state is No. 12 in funding.
The coalition's main concern is money paid doesn't get raided by lawmakers for other programs.
Dave Chanda, who heads the state Division of Fish and Wildlife, said fees paid by freshwater anglers and hunters for more than a century have never been raided by lawmakers. There have been attempts but because this would jeopardize federal funding for the programs they were never successful.
"We get $1.7 million from New Jersey to manage marine fisheries. We need about $20 million to do the job right," Chanda said.
Council member Eleanor Bochenek expressed concern funding from the license could lead to a reduction in existing state funding for some programs.
Bochenek, however, voted for the license along with Herb, Ewing, Patrick Donnelly, Erling Berg, Frances Puskas and Scott Bailey
The committee will report back to council at the May 13 meeting.
Compliments of Atlantic City Press
January 7, 2010
Special Notice
Termination of all U.S. Loran-C Signals on February 8, 2010
IAW the 2010 DHS Appropriations Act:
* The U.S. Coast Guard will terminate the transmission of all U.S. Loran-C signals effective 2000Z, Feburary 8, 2010. At that time, the U.S. Loran-C signal will be unusable and permanently disconnected.
*This termination does not affect U.S. participation in the Russian-American or Canadian Loran-C chains.
* U.S. participation in these chains will continue temporarily in accordance with international agreements.
EG
January 6, 2010
New Jersey to Implement Spring Snow Goose Conservation Order in 2010
Click it and check it out!
January 6, 2010
The Truth about rumored Federal Firearms Bills
Recently, NJSFSC firearms committee member Rich Folk raised a question about federal bills SB 2090 and HR 45. An interesting and informative dialogue took place which is worth sharing.
SB 2090 is purported to make every gun owner report all of the guns he or she owns on their income tax return. It is rumoured to be an amendment to the 1986 IRS law. Other stipulations would be a $50 tax on firearms and fingerprinting of gun owners.
HR 45, otherwise known as the Blair Holt bill, is purported to make it illegal to own a firearm unless you register the firearm, are fingerprinted, supply a current Driver's license and Social Security number and submit to a physical and mental evaluation at any time when asked by authorities and a few other severe restrictions.
According to Irv Luizza, the Federation's NRA representative from the Northern section of the state, these bills have become urban legend. Scott Bach, president of the Association of New Jersey Rifle and Pistol Clubs, agreed.
"S2090 is a rumour that has not been substantiated," said Bach. "HR45 is out there but other than the sponsor of the bill, no one has supported it."
"I think Scott must get tired of answering questions about this bill on a monthly, if not a daily basis," agreed Luizza, speaking about HR45. "Seems like the Anti's have stumbled on a good way to raise some fear with this one. Sort of an anti's SPAM@ to keep everyone worried and asking what's up.
"I put it this way, if it sounds too good or bad to be true it usually isn't true."
Irv suggested that curiosity seekers@go to the website thread http://www.packing4life.com/showthread.php?t=7021 and check out the comments.
Finally Irv had some good advice for those who worry about the rumors of impending@gun bills.
"Do some web searches, read pro 2nd ammendment website pointers and read their feedback," Luizza suggests. "If it was something HOT to react to, the@NRA will send out alerts and every email list spreads it from there and gives direction on what to do.
"As most of us know if we went great guns on every issue that came in everyday it's sort of like crying wolf everyday. Eventually the help gets tired of being asked to react, than don't when we need them to react the most."
- Ed Cuneo
January 03, 2010
BURZICHELLI & JOHNSON BILL TO CLARIFY 1-GUN-PER-MONTH LAW SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
Law Stems from Task Force Proposal to Improve Law While Keeping Protections
(TRENTON) - Legislation Assemblymen John Burzichelli and Gordon Johnson sponsored to revise New Jersey's one-gun-per-month law while continuing to protect law-abiding citizens and businesses is now law.
The measure - signed Saturday by the governor - stems from recommendations from a special task force that reviewed the 1-gun-per-month law. That law took effect Jan. 1 and is designed to deter straw purchases and illegal handgun trafficking, but Burzichelli and Johnson - both Firearms Task Force members - said it also will penalize many law-abiding citizens unless changed.
"This is a common sense compromise that does nothing to impair the goal of protecting public safety by keeping criminals from obtaining multiple weapons at once," said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem). "These changes correct some unintended consequences while also protecting law-abiding citizens and legitimate businesses." "These changes allow us to continue targeting straw purchases and other illegal handgun trafficking, but provide reasonable exemptions that make sense," said Johnson (D-Bergen). "In the end, these changes are simply clarifications that don't interfere with protecting public safety and combating handgun trafficking."
The law (A-4304) clarifies that transfers of handguns between licensed retail dealers, registered wholesale dealers and registered manufacturers are exempted from the monthly limit. The law also clarifies that transfers of lawfully owned handguns from any person to a licensed retail dealer or a registered wholesale dealer or manufacturer are not subject to the gun per month restriction.
The Assembly Judiciary Committee on Monday is also expected to consider two additional Burzichelli-Johnson bills to clarify the law. One bill (A-4361) would exempt those who inherit guns, gun collectors and competitive shooters from the law. The other (AJR-133) would create a firearms advisory task force to review state gun laws.
Article compliments of:
www.gloucestercitynews.net
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Register for a Federal Saltwater Fishing Registry, or Not Too Register, that is the Question?
Scofflaws bewhere!
New Jersey's recreational saltwater anglers must provide contact information to a new, free federal registry by New Year's Day. If the state Legislature does not establish its own registry next year, in 2011 they will need to begin paying the federal government an annual fee of $15 to $25.
But how much will the fishing life truly change? How often will someone check whether people complied, and what will happen if they do not?
"It's going to be enforced just like any other fishing regulation's going to be enforced," said Forbes Darby, recreational fishing coordinator for the registry's steering agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. "There may well be a penalty. The law is unspecific about what that might be."
The 2006 law that produced the registry allows the NOAA to fine scofflaws. Darby said that could begin at some point next year, but not at first.
"Certainly the efforts will be on education early on," Darby said. "We understand with something new, people may not know about it."
Fishermen can register in one of two ways: at (www.countmyfish.noaa.gov) on the Web, or by calling 888-674-7411. The registry collects contact information to allow more expedient, complete surveys of what fish are being caught where and when.
Authorities would use the information to set more strategic catch limits, said Tom McCloy, the state's administrator of marine fisheries: "For most stocks, the idea is to have a sustainable population that people can enjoy."
Jim Donofrio, a Galloway Township fisherman who heads up the Recreational Fishing Alliance, believes most avid fishermen know about the program and will join it willingly if it is free. But these folks who spend, by Donofrio's estimation, anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000 per year on their hobby could balk at paying the government for permission to fish.
That's why state Sen. Jeff Van Drew, D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic, has pushed for a free state registry, refusing to compromise with a nominal fee that he feels could too easily be raised in the future.
Besides, Van Drew said, a cash-poor state government may raid the fee proceeds to fund a nonfishing endeavor.
State Sen. Bob Smith, D-Middlesex, Somerset, held Van Drew's bill in committee because it did not compromise. The state Department of Environmental Protection supported a fee.
"That free registry would have cost the state money," McCloy said.
If the free registry cannot pass in 2010, Van Drew said he would begrudgingly accept a fishing fee, rather than have anglers send $15 to $25 each to the federal government.
"I'd prefer a state fee, but that's like saying, 'Would you rather have your arms and legs cut off, or just your arms?' I'd rather stay intact," Van Drew said.
"It isn't really going to change participation in fishery," McCloy said. "People that say, 'If you put a license in place, I'm never going fishing again,' I don't believe for one second. Getting a license is the low cost involved in the process."
Van Drew predicted a state registry would pass in some form in 2010: "I think the debate continues, and hopefully the governor-elect has some input on that."
Said Donofrio: "My sense is that Gov.-elect (Chris) Christie is going to be very wise and not want to tax anybody" for fishing. Still, he said he would accept a small fee if it is strictly to cover the registry's cost, not additional state programs.
Delaware residents have saltwater licenses that allow them to fish in New Jersey waters, too, Darby said. Commercial boats and party vessels are exempt because their catch information is documented in other ways.
Anglers in six other states without their own registries must join New Jersey residents on the federal list, Darby said - Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Virginia.
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NJ DEP Division of Fish & Wildlife Reminded
Saltwater Registry Information
The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds saltwater anglers that the federal government's National Saltwater Angler Registry Program requires most New Jersey saltwater anglers to register prior to fishing in 2010.
You must register if you*
* Fish for or catch anadromous species (striped bass, shad, river herring) in state tidal waters
* Fish in Federal waters (more than 3 miles from shore)
You do not have to register if you*
* Are under 16 years of age
* Only fish on federally licensed party or charter boats
* Hold a Highly Migratory Species Angling Permit
Online and telephone registration will begin January 1, 2010. Register online at www.countmyfish.noaa.gov or call toll free 888-674-7411.
Registration is free in 2010.
IT'S YOUR RIVER, IT'S YOUR CHOICE!
This is a very interesting article from the Delaware River Keeper and (DFSFA) Delaware River Shad Fishermen's Association that I think has a major impact on New Jersey Fishermen-both Recreational and Commercial, New Jersey Littoral Areas, New Jersey Economics, New Jersey Environment and the New Jersey Federation.
The article is very long, but very informative and certainly worth you time reading. If you wish to send comments to the Federation click here Web Site Coordinator and title it "Delawre River Comments" Keep it short and to the point.
If you wish to send comments to the newspaper they suggest, their address is below.
The Delaware Riverkeeper has asked that all the DRSFA members read this article about the dredging project that is proposed for the lower Delaware River. They have also asked that all of our members send an email voicing your concerns and thoughts to Harold Jackson, editor for the editorial page of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Please send an email to:
Please read the article below about the dredging project.
The Proposal to Deepen the Delaware River
A Summary of Key Concerns and Issues
Due the lenght of this article, it is relocated under the "County News Section."
SCI and New Jersey Sporting Groups
File Suit to Force NJ Bear Hunt Decision
Washington, D.C. --Safari Club International (SCI) and the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsman's Clubs Inc. (Federation) filed suit yesterday in New Jersey to force action on black bear management.
Despite the best efforts of the state's Fish and Game Council (Council), New Jersey's Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has refused to approve a new comprehensive black bear management policy (Black Bear Policy) that includes hunting as a management strategy. Under New Jersey law, without a policy in place, the State cannot hold a black bear hunt.
"The Commissioner's inaction has lead to a drastic increase in bear incidents state-wide since the last bear hunt in 2005.
SCI President Larry Rudolph said, "A well regulated hunt is essential for the sound and responsible management of black bear in New Jersey and for the safety of the general public. The goal of our lawsuit is simply to put legal pressure on the Commissioner and the Council to take the necessary action to adopt a Black Bear Policy.
"Forcing action on a policy will allow the Council -- the people entrusted under New Jersey law to manage wildlife -- to decide whether a hunt is both the appropriate means of managing the state's bear population and a valued recreational experience."
Legal Background:
In 2006, SCI and the Federation went to court to defend the Black Bear Policy that was adopted in 2005 because then-DEP Commissioner Lisa Jackson and Governor Jon Corzine abruptly withdrew that policy and cancelled the annual black bear hunt.
In a 2007 decision, the Court questioned the Commissioner's authority to unilaterally withdraw the Black Bear Policy, but nevertheless invalidated the 2005 Policy, finding that it had not been properly adopted in the first place. The actions of the DEP and the court's ruling left New Jersey with no approved strategies for reducing the state's growing bear population.
The Court directed the Commissioner and Council to work together to formulate a new black bear management policy, and encouraged SCI and the Federation to return to court should the parties reach an impasse. That impasse has now occurred.
Operation Game Thief