Fishery biologists are best qualified to identify, define, and investigate deficiencies regarding aquatic habitat and biota. Adequate pre-mining sampling of the reserve, the overburden, and the strata under it are essential. Restoration efforts should concentrate on techniques that will optimize fish production and promote aquatic diversity. Where possible, public access and use should be promoted. When mining occurs, it is AFS policy to encourage legislation and diligent regulation of all surface mining by local, state, provincial, and federal government to provide adequate protection or aquatic resources.
Federal legislation provides uniformity of standards nationwide.
While the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act has attempted to minimize environmental impacts from coal mining, similar legislation and enforcement should be encouraged for other minerals. The Society encourages its members to become involved in this process by providing technical information essential for protection and continued propagation of fishery resources to policy makers so decisions are made on a scientific, rather than emotional or political, basis. References Cowardin, L. M., F. C. Golet, and E. T. LaRoe. Classification of wetlands and deep water habitats of the United States. Lewis, J. W., ed.