The fishing community should be actively involved with the creation and monitoring schemes of marine reserves. In summary, marine reserves hold much promise for the sustainable management of marine resources. I support the vision of the California legislature and the President in establishing important incentives to strengthen and expand on marine conservation through the design of marine reserve networks. In my political career, first as a County supervisor, then a California State's Assemblyman and now as Congressman of California's 17th District, which contains the majestic Monterey Marine Sanctuary, I have worked tirelessly to bolster the nation's land and ocean resource initiatives. As part of these initiatives I have encouraged the collaborative partnering of research institutions, government agencies, private industry, recreational and conservation groups, and the general public for the creation of solutions to marine conservation and sustainable use.
Marine reserves are no different.
All stakeholder groups must have the opportunity to weigh in with their knowledge and opinion of marine reserve design and function. I look forward to being part of the debate. Sam Farr is a U.S. Congressman, representing California's 17th district, and co-chair of the House Oceans Caucus.