Fishermen warn 30×30 initiative may shut them out of their traditional fishing grounds
IN THE NEWS – California has officially conserved more than 25% of its land on its march to its conservation goals. Governor Newsom released the 2024 Annual Progress Report for the 30×30 Initiative on www.californianature.ca.gov – A commitment to conserve 30% of state lands and coastal waters by the year 2030.
Commerical fishermen groups and Fishing and Hunting nonprofits warn the 30×30 initiative could threaten coastal sportfishing access and traditional fishing grounds.
Saltwatersportsman’s 30×30 viewpoint: https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/problems-with-30×30/
American Sportfishing Association (ASA) viewpoint:
https://asafishing.org/california-30-x-30-initiative/
National Fisherman viewpoint:
https://www.nationalfisherman.com/national-international/what-you-need-to-know-about-30×30
*The forces behind 30×30 include well-financed environmental groups such as the Audubon Society, Azul, Defenders of Wildlife, and the National Resource Defense Council.
*In September 2022, 18 organizations were selected to serve on the 30×30 Partnership Coordinating Committee. Although it is unclear how these members were selected, none of the 18 organizations represent recreational fishing interests.
*The organizations that are pushing for angler access include the Coastal Conservation Association of California, American Sportfishing Association, All Waters Protection and Access Coalition, and Backcountry Hunters And Anglers.
*NCGASA and GGFA continue to advocate for science-based management of fisheries resources.
