MLPA - Important info for Dec 9 F&G Commission - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

PAL · 11-12-2009, 01:20 PM

The Fish and Game Commission is a five member panel of political appointees. This is NOT the DFG, it is a separate entity. They don't manage the department, but they do set regulations for take, seasons, and the like.

Read about the members here: http://www.fgc.ca.gov/public/information/bios.asp

Dan Richards and Commission President Jim Kellogg voted against implementing the MLPA in North Central California, citing concerns over enforcement and the state budget. They were strong, vocal critics and are expected to continue this stance.

Michael Sutton is linked to BRTF member Meg Caldwell. How? In a sense, she is his boss. Sutton works for the Monterey Bay Acquarium. Caldwell is on the board or is a trustee of some type.

Don Benninghoven was plucked from chairmanship of the SoCal BRTF to deliver the decisive vote that pushed the NorCal IPA over the top. He replaced the former president, who resigned mysteriously just days from the vote.

Richard Rogers joined Sutton and Benninghoven in that infamous NorCal vote. Expect more of the same.

Now that you know who you are dealing with, here's how to write them: fgc@fgc.ca.gov. The subject line should read something like: Comment on MLPA South Coast Process

Please mind your manners. This is a whole new ballgame with different, much stricter rules. You'll be treated with respect if you show up to comment, and given adequate time, usually 3 minutes but no less than 1. The Brown Act applies to the Commission - they are supposed to notice their meetings appropriate, conduct their business in the light of day, and avoid conflicts of interest.

Now get to it!

11-12-2009, 01:20 PM	#1
PAL Senior Member Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 754	The Fish and Game Commission is a five member panel of political appointees. This is NOT the DFG, it is a separate entity. They don't manage the department, but they do set regulations for take, seasons, and the like. Read about the members here: http://www.fgc.ca.gov/public/information/bios.asp Dan Richards and Commission President Jim Kellogg voted against implementing the MLPA in North Central California, citing concerns over enforcement and the state budget. They were strong, vocal critics and are expected to continue this stance. Michael Sutton is linked to BRTF member Meg Caldwell. How? In a sense, she is his boss. Sutton works for the Monterey Bay Acquarium. Caldwell is on the board or is a trustee of some type. Don Benninghoven was plucked from chairmanship of the SoCal BRTF to deliver the decisive vote that pushed the NorCal IPA over the top. He replaced the former president, who resigned mysteriously just days from the vote. Richard Rogers joined Sutton and Benninghoven in that infamous NorCal vote. Expect more of the same. Now that you know who you are dealing with, here's how to write them: fgc@fgc.ca.gov. The subject line should read something like: Comment on MLPA South Coast Process Please mind your manners. This is a whole new ballgame with different, much stricter rules. You'll be treated with respect if you show up to comment, and given adequate time, usually 3 minutes but no less than 1. The Brown Act applies to the Commission - they are supposed to notice their meetings appropriate, conduct their business in the light of day, and avoid conflicts of interest. Now get to it! Last edited by PAL; 11-12-2009 at 02:04 PM.