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approach. 



Because there are other pinniped predation problems in the 

 U.S., in addition to those being experienced in Maine, we ask that 

 the establishment of regional pinniped interaction task forces be 

 authorized in the Committee's bill. Just as regional Conservation 

 Teams can be expected to better understand and develop mitigation 

 strategies that will be effective in a given region, regional 

 pinniped interaction task forces can be expected to perform most 

 effectively, and in a timely manner. 



We also ask that the representation on a task force be 

 specifically expanded to include representatives of fishing 

 industry organizations as that same opportunity has been extended 

 to environmental organizations in the Committee's draft. 



These brief comments attempt to respond to the Committee's 

 draft reauthorization bill while touching on the major MMPA 

 reauthorization issues which I understand to be of interest to 

 several Maine fisheries. Many other technical issues could be 

 discussed but I will instead respond to any guestions which 

 Committee members may want to ask me. 



For the Maine Sardine Council, the Associated Fisheries of 

 Maine, and the Maine Aguaculture Association, I want to thank you 

 again for the opportunity to talk with you today about this very 

 important legislation. We appreciate the Committee's record of 

 support for our fishing businesses and look forward to continuing 

 to work with you as this process continues. 



6. 



