139 



might give our members insights into whether we are incorrect, 

 and whether there is something we can do to prevent future 

 interactions. 



Our member livelihoods depends upon their skill in "reading" 

 ocean conditions. They follow the fish in several different 

 fisheries and are very close observers of the marine environment. 

 We would welcome an opportunity to share our knowledge and 

 experience with NMFS scientists and other interested persons to 

 find solutions to real problems. 



Vast amounts of data should not continue to be gathered 

 across-the-board by gear type and be assessed exclusively by 

 statisticians and computers. It's not cost-effective, and may 

 lead to erroneous conclusions. Nor should the government 

 continue to impose permitting and reporting requirements which 

 are not targeted on specific needs. 



It is time, we believe, for the hfMFS, industry and other 

 experts to work together to identify the real problems and seek 

 possible solutions. 



