Success on the baseball diamond comes from doing the little things right: an outfielder’s throw hitting the cutoff man, or a batter laying down a bunt.
Little things are important in the ocean, too. Large swirling “baitballs” of tiny schooling fish – known as forage fish – represent a key indicator of ocean health. These fish provide food for an all-star lineup of marine species along the West Coast, including salmon, tuna, birds, whales, dolphins and many species of finfish. Unfortunately, many of these fish species are not protected in Oregon and California waters.
Learn more via a recent blog by Paul Shively at the Pew Charitable Trusts.
TAKE ACTION – Send a message to Fish and Wildlife Departments in Oregon and California:
Thanks in large part to thousands of people who voiced their support for forage fish protections over the last few years, the Pacific Fishery Management Council reached a landmark decision in March to adopt a forage fish conservation policy in federal waters from three to 200 miles off the U.S. West Coast.
This important decision sets the stage for Oregon and California to move forward with similar safeguards in state waters, from the shore to three miles out (the State of Washington has had a plan in place since 1998). California approved a forage fish policy in 2012 that has not yet been implemented. Oregon is developing a plan to conserve forage fish in state waters, but action is needed this year to ensure consistent management along the West Coast.
By protecting forage fish, Californians and Oregonians will take a critical step towards a healthier ocean with thriving coastal communities. Now it’s our chance to bring Big League Baitball to the West Coast!
