Louisiana is known to many as the Sportsmans Paradise for its excellent fishing and wildlife, but that moniker may be in jeopardy if the menhaden reduction fishing industry continues to wreak havoc on the state’s shoreline and deplete fish populations through unsustainable and irresponsible fishing practices.
The menhaden harvesting sector is the second largest by volume of fishing in the United States. It is also well-regulated in most states. Louisiana’s menhaden harvesting industry is free to fish where they like, and without regard for the environment, fish populations, or water depth. Despite state lawmakers being aware of the problem, there has not been a bill passed to address it. If passed by the Senate, Louisiana House Bill 1033 will save our coast by setting catch limits and imposing reporting requirements on menhaden fishing.
The Gulf Menhaden Conservation Coalition is an alliance of wildlife conservationists, environmentalists, and sport fishermen.
- How the destructive and irresponsible practices by the menhaden reduction fishing industry operating in Louisiana’s waters have damaged the states marine ecosystems by fishing in shallow waters and dragging their boats and nets on the seabed.
- How overfishing menhaden reduces the food supply for species like redfish and speckled trout, flounder and jacks, and how this impacts Louisiana’s sport fishing industry.
- How the purse seine nets used by the industry aren’t selective, trapping and killing many other species of fish, which are lazily discarded as waste.
- Louisiana is the only Gulf State that has not established a buffer zone for menhaden fishing. A buffer of a mile would help protect coastal habitats and species.
- Menhaden need an ecosystem-based management system that protects their habitat, promotes healthy coastal ecosystems, and allows them to fulfill the ecological role of a food source for other species.
- Why HB1033 is an important step in protecting Louisiana’s coastline and marine ecosystem.
You can reach HBW Resources at 713-355-9714 if you’re interested in speaking with a representative from the Gulf Menhaden Conservation Coalition if you want to learn more about how menhaden fisheries have harmed Louisianas environment and threatened the state’s status as the Sportsmans Paradise.
