Posted by Phil Bergeron on March 30, 2000 at 11:18:46:
Fellow divers:
I am somewhat concerned that, after reading California Diving News
account of SB241, and seeing a group throw $1000 to Ken Kurtis for
chamber day, that some substantial effort is being exerted to hush the
fact that all oil rigs that get converted to artificial reefs under
SB241 will also become "marine preserves" which will "prohibit all
fishing or removal of any marine life...". I challenge you to find the
words "marine preserve" in Dale's article or at the CEMR web site at
www.preservereefs.org
Since divers are being solicited for their support, they should be aware
of all aspects of this bill. As I have been aware of the efforts to
support the "Rigs to Reefs" program since it's inception, I see the
prohibition of take as a betrayal of the fishermen and spearfishing
interests who got this program off the ground. Since I have no personal
interest in diving on oil rigs, I have no axe to grind here. I do,
however, deeply resent being treated like an idiot. I believe that is
exactly how we are all being treated in this case.
I urge you to carry this warning to your clubs and not let the dive
community fall asleep AGAIN.
Don't just do it on my word - READ SB241.
-Phil Bergeron