The Port of Friday Harbor also has a vested interest and Dennis said a partnership could lower the costs of a sampling program. It was agreed that baseline data is needed. Port Commissioner, Brian Calvert, said that the Port would be more inclined to support a sampling program if costs were shared. Rich Osborne reiterated that protecting Argyle Lagoon falls under MRC s mandate to safeguard marine resources. Jim Slocomb asked that members be prepared to examine the issue further at the next meeting.
New comments follow and relate to appended draft recommendations.
Laura said the point is that an educational, not a reporting enforcement, mechanism is being sought here. Kevin said that the original idea came out of discussions with some operators and Mark Spalding. Struck in entirety. Commissioner Evans warned that the basis of a limited entry permit system would be political, not scientific, given the many, varied stakeholders involved. Chair Slocomb opened the meeting to comments from the audience.