For example, the public trust doctrine allows for both fishing and commerce, yet shipping channels and many forms of fishing cannot coexist. When conflicts exist between legitimate public trust uses, the Commission tries to balance the uses where possible, but occasionally must pick one or the other. I see that such conflicts potentially exist in turning rigs into reefs. On the Belmont issues, we've heard from, and listened to, divers and sports anglers interested in new artificial reefs to improve recreational opportunities. However, many of these reefs may prevent commercial fishing, or other commercial activity, because of obstructions that they may create.
Oil companies see rigs to reefs as a way to reduce abandonment costs.
Environmentalists believe that the ocean floor should be returned to its natural condition. I'm pleased to see that representatives of all of these different groups will have an opportunity to explain their perspective today. I also hope to learn more about the factual context surrounding these controversies. The commission must be aware of all of the implications of the decisions on rigs to reefs proposals. The potential for residual contamination must be evaluated, as must the potential inherent liability that such reefs bring for land managers.